What Is a Lowboy Flatbed Trailer?

A lowboy flatbed trailer is a special type of trailer with a lower deck that helps move tall and heavy things. This trailer sits close to the ground to carry big loads that would be too tall on regular trailers.

What Makes a Lowboy Trailer Special?

Lowboy trailers have a dropped deck between the axles. This means:

• The deck sits just inches above the ground
• It can carry taller equipment without going over road height limits
• It has a lower center of gravity for better safety
• It is also called a lowbed, low-loader, or double-drop trailer

Key Parts of a Lowboy Trailer

Lowboy trailers have these important parts:

• Lower deck height: Much lower than regular flatbed trailers
• Multiple axles: Often has 2-3 axles to support heavy loads
• Strong frame: Made with high-tensile steel (like 80KSI HSS)
• Loading ramps: Often has flip-up ramps or a beavertail design
• Heavy-duty build: Can carry very heavy machines and equipment

Lowboy Trailer Models and Specs

Here’s what some new 2025 lowboy models offer:

Model	Length	Weight Capacity	Special Features
Southland 16’	16 ft	7,700 lbs GVWR	2 Lippert Spring Axles (3,500 lbs each)
Southland 18’	18 ft	7,716 lbs GVWR	Multi-leaf spring with equalizer
Pitts LB55-22DC	26 ft deck	55 tons	22″ loaded deck height, hydraulic detachable neck
Fontaine 55L-Plus	26 ft deck	55 tons	18″ loaded deck height, 5 position rear ride height
Trail King 55 Ton	53 ft	55 tons	3-axle design, steel construction
Fontaine Workhorse	Custom	110,000 lbs	Can haul 110,000 lbs in 16 ft span

Data from 2025 models available in the market

Lowboy vs. Regular Flatbed Trailers

Let’s see how lowboy trailers compare to regular flatbed trucks:

Lowboy Trailers:

• Deck height: Much lower to the ground
• Best for: Very tall and heavy loads
• Design: Has a drop in the middle section
• Weight capacity: Often higher (up to 55-60 tons)
• Center of gravity: Lower for better stability

Regular Flatbed Trailers:

• Deck height: Higher off the ground
• Best for: More common, general loads
• Design: Flat all the way across
• Versatility: Good for many kinds of cargo
• Cost: Usually less expensive

What Can You Haul on a Lowboy?

Lowboy trailers are perfect for moving:

• Construction equipment (excavators, bulldozers)
• Farm machinery (tractors, combines)
• Industrial equipment (generators, pumps)
• Tall cargo that would be over height limits on regular trailers
• Heavy loads that need the extra support of multiple axles

These trailers work great with powerful tractor units for semi-trailers that can pull heavy loads.

Choosing the Right Lowboy Trailer

When picking a lowboy trailer, think about:

1. Load weight: Match the trailer’s weight rating to your needs
2. Cargo height: How tall is your load?
3. Deck length: Make sure it’s long enough for your equipment
4. Axle count: More axles = more weight capacity
5. Features needed: Do you need hydraulic ramps? Detachable gooseneck?
6. Budget: Prices average around $68,000 for new 2025 models

Safety Tips for Lowboy Trailers

When using a lowboy trailer:

• Check weight distribution to keep the trailer balanced
• Secure all loads with proper chains and straps
• Inspect the trailer regularly, especially tires and brakes
• Know height clearances for your route
• Follow all road regulations for oversized loads
• Use the right truck to pull the trailer safely

For moving very heavy equipment, you might need emergency lighting trucks to escort your load.

Leading Lowboy Manufacturers

The top makers of quality lowboy trailers include:

• Talbert Manufacturing: Making trailers since 1938
• Fontaine Specialized: Known for the Magnitude and Workhorse lines
• Pitts: Makers of heavy-duty 55-ton lowboys
• Trail King: Produces custom 55-ton models
• Southland: Makes smaller 16-18 ft models with spring axles

Common Uses for Lowboy Trailers

These trailers help many industries move big things:

• Construction companies moving bulldozers and cranes
• Mining operations transporting heavy equipment
• Agricultural businesses moving tall farm machinery
• Industrial plants relocating large machinery
• Infrastructure projects moving bridge sections

They work well with semi-trailers in a complete trucking fleet.

FAQs About Lowboy Trailers

Conclusion

Lowboy flatbed trailers are special tools that help move very tall and heavy loads. With their lower deck height, strong build, and multiple axles, they make moving big equipment safer and legal. Whether you’re in construction, farming, or industry, a lowboy trailer can solve your toughest transport problems.