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Chengli Automobile Industry Park
What is the purpose of a lowboy trailer?
What is the Purpose of a Lowboy Trailer?
Table of Contents
Introduction
A lowboy trailer is a special truck trailer. It has a very low deck. The deck sits close to the ground. This makes it good for moving big things. These big things can be too tall or heavy for other trailers.
People call lowboy trailers by other names too. Some names are low-bed, low-loader, double drop, floater, and more. All these names mean the same thing – a trailer with a low deck.
What Makes a Lowboy Trailer Special?
Low Deck Height
The most important part of a lowboy trailer is its low deck. The deck sits only 18 to 24 inches from the road. This is much lower than other trailers.
This low deck is very important. Many states have rules about how tall trucks can be on the road. A low deck lets these trailers carry taller loads without breaking these rules.
Strong Build
Lowboy trailers are very strong. They can carry very heavy things. Some can hold up to 100 tons or more! This is why construction companies like them so much.
Types of Lowboy Trailers
There are three main types:
- Standard lowboy – Most common type
- Fixed neck lowboy – Lightest weight but harder to load from front
- Removable Gooseneck (RGN) – Has a part that comes off for easy loading
Main Purpose of Lowboy Trailers
The biggest job of a lowboy trailer is to move very big and heavy things. Let’s see what they can move:
Moving Heavy Equipment
Lowboy trailers are perfect for moving big machines like:
- Bulldozers
- Excavators
- Cranes
- Large industrial equipment
They can carry these machines safely and in one piece. This saves time and money.
Carrying Tall Loads
The low deck height lets these trailers carry very tall things without going over height limits on roads. This means less need for special permits.
Moving Oversized Cargo
Lowboy trailers can carry things that are:
- Too wide
- Too tall
- Too heavy
- Odd-shaped
This makes them useful for many jobs.
Benefits of Using a Lowboy Trailer
| Benefit | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Height Compliance | Keeps loads under 13.5-14 ft legal limits | Avoids tickets and fines |
| Stability | Low center of gravity | Less chance of tipping over |
| Cost Efficiency | Less need for permits | Saves $1,000-$5,000+ per trip |
| Loading Ease | Some have ramps or removable parts | Makes loading big machines easier |
| Versatility | Adjustable for many load types | Works for many jobs |
What is a Lowboy Trailer?
A lowboy trailer is a specialized semi-trailer with a very low deck height, designed for transporting tall, heavy, or oversized loads that exceed standard trailer dimensions.
Common Uses of Lowboy Trailer
**Construction**: Bulldozers, excavators, cranes.
**Heavy Industry**: Industrial equipment, generators.
Weight Capacity and Dimensions
Typical dimensions and weight capacities.
Industries That Use Lowboy Trailers
Many businesses use lowboy trailers for their work:
1. Construction Industry
Construction companies use lowboys to move:
- Bulldozers
- Backhoes
- Excavators
- Rollers
- Pavers
Learn more about trucks that pull these trailers
2. Energy Sector
Energy companies use lowboys for:
- Wind turbine parts
- Solar panels
- Oilfield equipment
- Generators
3. Infrastructure Projects
These projects need lowboys for:
- Bridge beams
- Road building equipment
- Large pipes
- Steel beams
4. Mining and Forestry
These industries use lowboys for:
- Mining equipment
- Forestry machinery
- Drilling rigs
Latest Innovations in Lowboy Trailers
Lowboy trailers keep getting better. Here are some new things:
60T Lowbed with Hydraulic Ladder (2025)
This new trailer can carry 60 tons and has a special ladder system. It makes loading and unloading easier and safer.
2025 Kaufman 50 Ton Model
This new model has:
- 120,000 lbs GVWR
- 100,000 lbs capacity
- LED lights
- Four main beams
Advanced Features
New lowboy trailers have better:
- Axle configurations
- Hydraulic systems
- Deck materials
- Suspension systems
How to Choose the Right Lowboy Trailer
Picking the right lowboy trailer is important. Here’s what to think about:
1. Know Your Load
- How heavy is your load?
- How big is your load?
- What shape is your load?
2. Check the Specifications
Look for a trailer with:
- Right weight capacity
- Good deck length and width
- Right number of axles
- Good materials (steel vs. aluminum)
3. Consider Special Features
Some helpful features:
- Hydraulic ramps
- Removable gooseneck
- Adjustable height
- Extra tie-down points
Check out flatbed trailers for lighter loads
Safety and Regulations
Using lowboy trailers means following rules:
Licenses Needed
- CDL (Commercial Driver’s License)
- Special endorsements for oversized loads
Permits
- Oversized load permits
- Overweight permits
- Route permits
Safety Tips
- Check tie-downs often
- Watch for low bridges
- Plan your route carefully
- Check tire pressure
- Make sure weight is balanced
Common Questions About Lowboy Trailers
How much weight can a lowboy trailer carry?
Most can carry 40-100+ tons, depending on the design and number of axles.
Do I need special permits for using a lowboy trailer?
Sometimes. It depends on your load size, weight, and state rules.
How do lowboys compare to other truck trailers?
Lowboys have lower decks, can carry taller loads, and often have more axles for heavy weights.
Conclusion
Lowboy trailers are very important for moving big, heavy things. Their low deck helps carry tall loads without breaking road rules. Many industries use them for moving heavy equipment.
From construction sites to energy projects, lowboy trailers make moving big machines possible. New models keep getting better with more features and strength.
If you need to move very large or heavy things, a lowboy trailer is often the best choice.
