What is A Low Boy (Heavy Equipment Hauler)?

A lowboy trailer, also known as a low bed or heavy equipment hauler, is a specialized type of trailer used in the trucking industry to transport heavy and oversized equipment and machinery. Here are the key characteristics and features of a lowboy trailer:

 

  1. Low Deck Height: One of the defining features of a lowboy trailer is its low deck height, which allows for the transportation of tall and oversized equipment while maintaining a lower center of gravity. This low deck height facilitates the safe and efficient loading and unloading of heavy machinery.
  2. Removable Gooseneck: Many lowboy trailers feature a detachable or removable gooseneck, also known as a “RGN” (Removable Gooseneck) design. This feature allows for easy access to the front of the trailer, making it possible to drive equipment onto the trailer without the need for ramps.
  3. Multiple Axles: Lowboy trailers typically have multiple axles to distribute the weight of the cargo and provide stability during transportation. Axle configurations can vary, with common setups including tandem axles, tri-axles, and even quad-axles for heavier loads.
  4. Ramps and Loading Ramps: Some lowboy trailers come equipped with built-in ramps or loading ramps to facilitate the loading and unloading of equipment. These ramps may be hydraulic or manual and can be adjusted to accommodate different types of machinery.
  5. Deck Length and Width: Lowboy trailers are available in various lengths and widths to accommodate different types and sizes of equipment. The deck length can range from around 20 feet to over 50 feet, while the width typically ranges from 8 feet to 10 feet.
  6. Heavy-Duty Construction: Due to the nature of the loads they carry, lowboy trailers are built with heavy-duty materials and construction methods to withstand the weight and stress of transporting heavy equipment. They are often constructed from steel and feature reinforced frames and decking.
  7. Legal and Safety Considerations: Transporting oversized and overweight loads using lowboy trailers requires compliance with legal regulations and safety standards. Trucking companies and drivers must obtain permits, adhere to weight limits, and follow specific routing guidelines to ensure safe and legal transportation.

 

Overall, lowboy trailers are essential for transporting heavy and oversized equipment and machinery, providing a reliable and efficient solution for industries such as construction, mining, agriculture, and forestry. Their specialized design and capabilities make them well-suited for hauling a wide variety of heavy loads over short and long distances.

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