Extendable Trailer:

Freight Guide - What It Is, Types, Rates, & Quotes 

Updated on: 9/28/2024

Got questions about extendable trailers? Get them answered.

image-of-an-extendable-trailer

What is an Extendable Trailer?

The extendable trailer is your go-to solution when transporting exceptionally long or oversized cargo. Unlike standard flatbeds, these trailers can be adjusted to various lengths, making them suitable for specialized hauling requirements.

The flexibility of extendable trailers sets them apart and allows for the transportation of goods that would otherwise be challenging to move.

Introduction

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about extendable trailers, also known as "stretch" or "telescopic trailers", a specialized type of flatbed trailer. We'll explore what they are, their unique features, applications, advantages, specifications, and more.

Additionally, we'll provide valuable insights into flatbed trailer freight pricing, selecting a reliable freight broker, and where to obtain a freight quote for extendable trailers.



Unique Features of Extendable Trailers

Adjustable Length: The standout feature of extendable flatbed trailers is their ability to extend or retract their length as needed. This adaptability makes them ideal for carrying cargo that exceeds the standard dimensions.

Open Deck Design: Extendable flatbeds, like other flatbed trailers, feature an open deck design. This design allows for quick and efficient loading and unloading from various angles, including the top, sides, or rear.



Applications and Common Cargo of Extendable Trailers

Extendable trailers one of the types of truck and trailers used in freight that find applications in various industries, thanks to their ability to accommodate oversized and lengthy cargo. Some common applications include:

Construction and Heavy Equipment: These trailers are often used to transport construction machinery, such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators, which are too large for standard flatbeds.

Wind Energy: The wind energy sector relies on extendable trailers to transport wind turbine components, tower sections, and blades, which can be exceptionally long.

Manufacturing and Industrial: Oversized industrial equipment and machinery can be efficiently transported using extendable flatbed trailers.



Advantages of Extendable Trailers

Versatility: Extendable flatbed trailers offer the flexibility to handle a wide range of cargo sizes and shapes, making them a versatile choice for freight shipments.

Cost-Efficiency: By accommodating larger loads in a single haul, these trailers can help reduce transportation costs and improve overall efficiency.

Specialized Hauling: They are the preferred choice for specialized hauling requirements, allowing businesses to transport unique cargo without complications.



Specifications of Extendable Flatbed Trailers

Extendable flatbed trailers come in various lengths, typically ranging from standard 48-foot trailers to extended lengths tailored to specific cargo needs. The maximum load capacity and axle configuration can vary based on the trailer's design.



Flatbed Trailer Freight Pricing

The cost of shipping using an extendable flatbed trailer is influenced by several factors, including distance, cargo type and weight, equipment type, fuel costs, seasonal demand, supply and demand in specific regions, accessorial charges, market conditions, and insurance costs. Understanding these factors is crucial when negotiating fair rates for your shipment.

Selecting a Reliable Flatbed Trailer Freight Broker:

When choosing a freight broker for your extendable trailer shipment, consider factors such as the broker's reputation and experience, equipment and technology, compliance and certification, security measures, insurance coverage, operational support, route planning efficiency, and cost transparency.


Extendable Trailer Shipping and Freight Quote

Looking for an extendable trailer for your next freight shipment? Then look no further. As the leading freight broker, Guided Freight has the largest inventory of extendable trailers on the market, and we’ve made getting a freight quote quick and painless.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a stretch trailer?

A stretch trailer is a type of flatbed trailer commonly referred to as an ‘extendable trailer’ in the freight industry, and it is aptly named because this type of trailer has a sliding mechanism that can extend the length of the cargo bed significantly.

What is a telescopic trailer?

A telescopic trailer is another name for an extendable trailer, and its distinctive quality is the ability to extend the length of the cargo bed thanks to the built-in sliding mechanism. Just how long can a telescopic trailer get? Currently, the largest telescopic trailers can extend approximately 90 feet.

How much weight can a stretch trailer hold?

Due to the double frame slide-out construction of stretch trailers, which allows for the trailer to extend, they’re much heavier than a standalone flatbed trailer. For this reason, they can typically haul up to 42,000 lbs and stay under the 80,000 max weight requirement in the United States.

Written by Sam Boyd

A native of New Jersey, Sam started his logistics journey after college. He moved to Asia and founded Guided Imports, a global leader in freight forwarding from China to the US. 

Frustrated by the service provided by truck carriers once his customers' goods got stateside, he decided to launch Guided Freight, a freight brokerage built on trust in the USA.

If Sam had spare time, he'd probably still spend it working, And he loves connecting with other logistics professionals on LinkedIn.