Skip to main content
Shoolin Logistics home

Over-the-road

Flatbed & Specialized Transportation

Freight that doesn’t fit in a closed trailer: loads that are too wide, too tall, oversized or simply the wrong shape. We arrange flatbed and specialized transportation with the right carrier and equipment for your freight.

When to choose it

When a closed trailer won’t do

Some freight is defined by its shape before anything else. When it can’t fit through the rear doors of a standard trailer, an open deck may be the right solution.

  • It’s wider or taller than a trailer

    Machinery, structures and equipment that simply don’t fit inside a standard enclosed trailer.

  • It has to be loaded from above

    An open deck allows freight to be loaded from the top or the side when a closed trailer can’t accommodate it.

  • The weight is concentrated

    Some loads require equipment rated for the weight and a trailer configuration designed to distribute it properly.

  • It can travel exposed

    Steel, pipe, lumber and building materials can often move safely without enclosed protection.

What to expect

How we handle specialized freight

With specialized freight, choosing the wrong equipment can create problems before the load even leaves. We ask the right questions first, then book the equipment that fits the freight.

  • Dimensions before price

    Length, width, height and weight help determine the right equipment. We ask for them up front so we can quote and plan accurately.

  • The deck the load needs

    Flatbed, step deck or another open deck configuration, depending on the freight, its dimensions and how it needs to be loaded.

  • Carriers who do this work

    We work with carrier partners under established agreements and rates, with experience in flatbed, open-deck and specialized freight. We select the carrier that fits the load.

  • Someone answering while it moves

    Specialized freight can have more moving parts. If something changes during transit, you hear from us.

FAQ

Questions about Flatbed

What is flatbed shipping?

Flatbed shipping uses an open trailer with no walls or roof, allowing freight to be loaded from the side or from above. It is often used for freight that is too wide, tall or irregular for a standard enclosed trailer.

What counts as specialized freight?

Specialized freight is freight that requires equipment or handling beyond a standard trailer because of its width, height, weight, dimensions or shape. If you are not sure whether your load qualifies, send us the dimensions and we’ll help determine the right equipment.

Do you handle oversized loads that need permits?

Yes. Tell us the dimensions, weight and route when you request a quote. We’ll coordinate the appropriate equipment and help manage the permitting requirements for the move.

Is the freight covered?

It depends on the type of freight, equipment and how the load needs to travel. Tell us what you are shipping and we’ll confirm the appropriate setup with the carrier.

Who operates the equipment?

The carrier does. We work with carrier partners under established agreements and rates, and select the one whose equipment and experience fit the load.

Next options

Other ways to move your freight

  • Heavy Haul

    Heavy machinery, vehicles and oversized equipment that require specialized trailers and handling.

  • Full Truckload (FTL)

    A dedicated truck or trailer for your shipment, providing direct transportation from pickup to delivery without sharing trailer space with other freight.

  • Drayage

    The transportation of a container between the port or rail ramp and its next destination.

Not sure what your load needs?

Answer a couple of quick questions and our assistant will point you to the right service.

Ask our assistant

Free quote

Get a quote for Flatbed & Specialized Transportation

Tell us about your freight, including its dimensions, weight, pickup location and delivery destination. We’ll review the details and come back with the right equipment and options for the move.

Shoolin assistant

Fixed questions, no AI. About 30 seconds.

Chat with us on WhatsApp