What Is the Difference Between a Flatbed Trailer and a Low Bed Trailer?

While both flatbed trailers and low bed trailers are designed to transport large and heavy loads, they serve different purposes because of their structural differences.

A flatbed trailer has a straight, flat deck that sits higher off the ground, usually around 4 to 5 feet. It’s perfect for transporting items like pallets, steel frames, lumber, and machinery that aren't too tall. Cargo can be loaded and unloaded from the sides, the rear, or even from above with a crane, making flatbeds very versatile. However, because the deck is higher, the height of the cargo is limited by road regulations — if the load is too tall, it could be restricted or require special permits.

A low bed trailer — also known as a lowboy — has a deck much closer to the ground, sometimes only 18 to 24 inches high. This design allows it to carry much taller equipment and machinery without exceeding maximum legal height limits. Low beds are commonly used for transporting extremely heavy or oversized items like bulldozers, excavators, or industrial tanks. The lower height also provides better stability for very heavy loads.

In simple terms:  

- Use a flatbed when the cargo is wide or long but within normal height limits.  

- Use a low bed when you need to move very tall or extremely heavy equipment.

Choosing the right trailer depends largely on the height, weight, and type of cargo you’re hauling.