Common Commercial Uses of a Flatbed Trailer

Common Commercial Uses of a Flatbed TrailerFlatbed trailers are the backbone of the trucking industry. They can carry a lot of heavy cargo across the country to make sure everyone has access to the goods and merchandise they need to live comfortably. Here are four of the most common commercial uses for a flatbed trailer and how you can find one to benefit your trucking fleet.

Hauling Construction Equipment

Big construction projects often require the use of oversized machineries such as excavators, diggers and bulldozers. This equipment cannot legally be driven on roadways, so it must be carried to different work sites. Flatbed trailers are ideal for hauling construction equipment because they are big and open. You don't have to worry about your machinery being too big for an enclosed trailer if you choose a flatbed trailer instead. Just make sure to secure the machinery effectively so that it does not fall off the trailer during transport.

Moving Scrap Metals

With concern for the current climate crisis skyrocketing, many people are recycling various materials in an effort to do their part to save the environment. One of the most popular materials for people to recycle is scrap metal. From old appliances to fencing, scrap metals are often hard to organize to fit neatly in a confined space. This characteristic makes scrap metal difficult to move in an enclosed trailer. The materials just do not fit properly in a small space. Flatbed trailers are a much better option because they are open. Most scrap metals are not affected by the weather, and attaching to a flatbed trailer does not risk damaging them when they are hauled across the country to be recycled.

Moving Agricultural Equipment and Goods

Farmers and ranchers often need to move large pieces of equipment. Because most ranches are made up of many aces, it's helpful to have trailers to haul the equipment across the property. Flatbed trailers are versatile and can also be used for hauling hay and feed to care for the animals on the ranch. They come in a wide variety of sizes so that ranchers can select the one that is compatible with the size of their vehicle. Flatbed trailers simplify the act of ranching so that farmers can focus on growing their businesses instead of how they will move equipment across their property.

Transporting Building and Construction Materials

Building and construction materials are often big and bulky. Fitting them into a conventional trailer is tricky because they must fit into a space with room for the door to close. Using a flatbed trailer to haul these items is usually a better solution because they can hang off the side of the trailer a little if necessary. All items transported on a flatbed trailer must be secured to the device, but the design of flatbed trailers makes them ideal for carrying:
  • Steel pipes
  • Concrete blocks
  • Fence posts
  • Scaffolding
  • Lumbar

Why Choose McFarlane Trailer Sales

McFarlane Trailer Sales has years of experience in the trailer industry. Not only do we have a vast variety of trailer models on our lot for you to choose from, but we also offer our repair services to help you keep your flatbed trailers in top condition. We are the trailer experts, and we are committed to helping you find the models that best meet your needs. This includes helping you find the perfect commercial trailers so you can build a successful trucking business.

Shop With Us Today

If you're in the market for a flatbed trailer to expand your trucking fleet, McFarlane Trailer Sales has a great inventory of models for you to choose from. Browse our inventory online or contact us today to see how you can find the best trailer for your needs.

Is Buying a Used Equipment Trailer Worth It?

Is Buying a Used Equipment Trailer Worth It?Trailers are versatile tools for farming, construction, and other jobs, but they can be expensive for smaller operations. When faced with the purchase price for a brand-new trailer, many people choose to find used trailers for saleUsed trailers are an excellent option when you do not have the funds or financing available to purchase a newer model. However, buying used can also present several risks to the buyer. For instance, if you are purchasing a trailer from a private seller, you do not really know the condition or history of the trailer. Additionally, there are several unscrupulous sellers, including lots.  If you opt for a used trailer, you want to buy from a trusted seller. Still, there is much more to consider when buying used rather than new. 

Trailer History 

Before you purchase a used trailer, you want to know its history. Any seller should present a clear title of ownership. You need to ensure there are no liens on the trailer. Some people will attempt to sell a trailer they do not legally have the right to sell. For instance, they might try to sell the equipment when a bank or equipment financing company has a lien against it. Purchasing a trailer without a clean title can leave you responsible for the debt. It is also possible that the original owner will pocket the money from the sale without paying off the original debt, meaning you may wake up to a repossession. 

Trailer Body and System 

When you purchase a used car, you likely take it for a test drive or have a buddy do a quick inspection before you spend the money. A trailer purchase entails the same attention to detail. You want to inspect the frame for rust, bends, cracks, or previous repairs. You should also ask about any previous maintenance issues. Existing bends and cracks can indicate overloading issues, which might be reason enough to avoid the sale. Depending on the trailer, you will also need to inspect the electrical systems. It is crucial that all lights work when connected to your vehicle. Trailers without lights are a safety hazard and could lead to serious injury and accidents. You will also want to inspect the braking and suspension systems. If possible, connect the trailer to your vehicle and test the brakes and their response. Additionally, assess the brake rotors and pads. How much life is left in them? The suspension system should appear in good shape. Look for cracks and other signs of overloading and stress. The bearings throughout should be well lubricated and sealed. One sign of bearing issues is a hum that is high pitched as you drive around. 

Trailer Financing 

When looking for a used trailer, you may come across sellers wanting to unload a current equipment loan with the trailer. In some cases, you can assume the payments of the seller, which can work to your benefit as the loan is already paid down. However, you might want to find a used trailer for sale that allows you to take out financing. The advantage of using financing is that you can purchase and use the trailer without being out the entire purchase price. Instead, you make monthly payments toward the loan while using the equipment to make money. Essentially, the equipment can pay for itself. A used trailer can be an excellent option, but you need to be careful who you purchase from. McFarlane Trailer Sales is a trusted seller of trailers and carries a variety of designs, both new and used. The specialists at McFarlane’s ensure that every trailer is inspected and safe for operation. If you are looking for a new or used trailer, or just in the market for some trailer parts, look no further than McFarlane.