Getting a
flatbed trailer rental is a wise business decision for entrepreneurs who aim to optimize the delivery process. While traditional box trucks have enclosed cargo areas, flatbed trailers feature a completely open deck, making it easier to move bulky items, machinery, and most importantly, pallets.
The Hetman Rental fleet is engineered for longevity, guaranteeing the safe transportation of your business cargo. Here’s how you can transport pallets with ease and confidence.
Why use flatbed for palletized loads?
Flatbed trucks serve construction and manufacturing industries the most. The main benefit of flatbeds is the availability on all four sides. They allow forklifts to access the cargo from both sides or the back.
- Flexibility: Best option for regular 48″ x 40″ GMA pallets or special skids.
- Speed: Better loading/unloading than dry vans.
- Weight Capacity: Suitable for high weight capacity loads such as bricks, turf, or engine components.
Pallet Capacity Quick Reference
Knowing your trailer’s deck space is crucial for route planning. Here is a general guide for standard pallet distribution:
| Trailer Deck Length |
Approx. Pallet Capacity |
Best Use Case |
| 14 Feet |
6 – 8 Pallets |
Residential deliveries & small job sites |
| 18 – 20 Feet |
10 – 12 Pallets |
Commercial freight & heavy equipment |
| 24+ Feet |
14+ Pallets |
Bulk industrial shipments |
Proper Loading and Weight Distribution
One of the causes of accidents during transit is poor weight distribution. While transporting cargo on an open deck, the center of gravity should remain balanced to avoid trailer sway or overloaded axles.
- Heavy to Light: The principle states that the heavy loads should be placed above the trailer axles while lighter loads may be placed either towards the front or the back.
- Symmetrical Loading: Pallets should remain symmetrical from side to side to avoid trailer tilting during sharp turns on Calgary’s inner city streets.
- Overhang Prevention: Pallets should not overhang beyond the trailer rub rails since this can attract heavy penalties from Alberta’s transportation officials.
Securing the Load: Straps, Winches, and Friction
When securing a load, tightness alone is not enough; the right equipment needs to be used.
- Ratchet Straps & Tie-downs: Use good quality ratchet straps with a WLL exceeding the weight of the cargo being carried. When dealing with palletized loads, the standard strap width is 2 inches.
- Anti-Slip Friction Mats: Underneath smooth-bottomed pallets, place friction mats to ensure they do not slide around while moving.
- Corner Protectors: While carrying delicate cargoes such as drywall or bagged cement, apply corner protectors to keep the load safe from the force of highly tightened straps.
- Pro Tip: Remember to always verify the tension levels of your load within 10 –15 kilometers of driving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your flatbed trailer haul goes smoothly, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Overlooking Height Restrictions: Make sure you check your height from the ground up to your tallest point when loaded to stay clear of low bridge heights.
- Poorly Wrapped Loads: The wind will damage improperly wrapped pallet loads, and the contents may end up littered on the highway.
- No Protection from Weather: When you’re on an open bed, the weather can get in. Bring heavy tarps if you’re shipping sensitive items in rainy or snowy Calgary weather.
Loading Techniques – Forklifts, Straps, and Safety Tips
- Neglecting Height Clearances: Always measure your total height from the ground to the top of the cargo to avoid issues with low bridges or overpasses.
- Loose Shrink-Wrap: Wind resistance at highway speeds can tear poorly wrapped pallets, leading to debris on the road.
- Ignoring Weather: On an open deck, your goods are exposed. Use heavy-duty tarps if you are transporting moisture-sensitive materials during Calgary’s unpredictable rain or snow.
Renting the Right Equipment in Calgary
Choosing the right partner for your transport needs makes all the difference.
Hetman Rental offers a variety of flatbed configurations, each regularly inspected to meet Alberta’s safety standards. Whether you are moving construction supplies across town or delivering commercial goods to a warehouse, we have the reliable equipment you need.
