6 Common Flatbed Shipping Problems (And How to Keep Your Shipments on Track)
Flatbed shipments are among the most exciting—and sometimes challenging—logistics tasks out there. From hauling heavy machinery to oversized goods, these open-deck loads are vital for keeping supply chains moving across Canada. But no matter how essential, flatbed shipping comes with its unique set of potential hiccups.
The good news? With a little planning, teamwork, and know-how, you can sidestep these common speed bumps. Below, we’ll go through six frequent flatbed shipping challenges and offer some handy solutions to make the process smoother while keeping your prices competitive.
1. Lack of Communication on Cargo Details
Flatbed shipping isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every load is different, and without clear communication about your shipment’s specific details, things can quickly spiral into chaos. A truck arrives ready to load, only to find the cargo is larger, heavier, or has special instructions nobody mentioned. Cue delays, frustration, and unforeseen costs.
How to Avoid It:
Be the communicator every logistics partner dreams of. Share detailed information upfront, including:
Dimensions (length, width, height) of the cargo
Total weight
Description of the goods (e.g., machinery, steel beams)
Special requirements (sharp edges, multiple pieces, etc.)
Pickup and delivery details (addresses, contact info, specific instructions)
The more info you provide, the easier it is for every party to plan. It’s always better to give too much detail than too little!
2. Tight, Rigid Pickup and Delivery Timeframes
Nobody likes being boxed in—especially your transportation provider. Insisting on super-specific times (like 8 a.m. sharp) to load or unload might seem like a good idea, but it limits the options available for carriers. For instance, a driver might have to sit idle overnight to accommodate your schedule, which can drive up costs.
How to Avoid It:
Flexibility is your friend! Open up your time slots where possible. For example:
Instead of “8 a.m. pickup,” try “between 8 and 10 a.m.”
Adjust schedules to allow for same-day pickup and delivery, if practical.
Ask your carrier for their input when scheduling.
This gives transportation companies more wiggle room to find the right vehicle and driver for your shipment, helping you keep your prices competitive.
3. Limited Trailer Options
The transportation world is full of trailer types, each suited to different needs. Yet, some companies stick to what they know—only requesting flatbeds, for example—when other trailers like step-decks or double-drops could also get the job done. Sticking to a single type unnecessarily limits your options and can lead to higher costs.
How to Avoid It:
Build a good relationship with freights coordinators who understand your shipping needs. Give them the freedom to recommend alternative trailer types when appropriate. Their expertise can save you from overcomplicating things while ensuring your freight has a smooth ride. Flexibility often leads to a better deal and quicker turns!
4. Overlooking Cargo Value in the Planning Phase
Every shipment has a value, but some loads are worth significantly more than others. High-value flatbed freight (say $300,000 or more) often requires additional insurance coverage, which not all carriers automatically offer. If this isn’t addressed early, shippers can end up scrambling for solutions, delaying delivery and driving up costs.
How to Avoid It:
Consider self-insuring: This frees transportation companies from additional risk and simplifies the process.
Break up high-value shipments: If possible, divide multiple high-value items into smaller loads to keep the overall value per shipment lower.
Proper planning prevents panicked scrambling when it comes to insuring your precious cargo.
5. Cargo Damage From Securement Tools
Flatbed trailers, by their nature, leave cargo exposed to the elements. Tarps protect freight from rain and wind, and straps or chains keep things secure. But these tools can sometimes do more harm than good. Tarps may scuff surfaces, while chains and straps can crush fragile areas if not handled with care.
How to Avoid It:
Be present during the securement process. You know your cargo best, so point out areas that may be vulnerable to damage.
Supply padding materials (like extra carpet pieces) for the driver to add between chains/straps and your freight.
Small steps like these can save you headaches down the road when ensuring your cargo arrives in perfect condition.
6. Maneuvering Trailers Around Tight Spaces
Not every pickup or drop-off location is built with flatbed trailers in mind. Tight corners, narrow driveways, or lack of space for larger trailers can cause delays if not addressed ahead of time. The driver needs to know what they’re walking—or driving—into!
How to Avoid It:
Don’t leave drivers guessing. Provide:
Detailed instructions for navigating the site.
Photos or videos of tricky areas (e.g., narrow gates, loading docks).
Your trucking partner will appreciate the heads-up and can send an experienced driver or specific trailer type that best suits the location.
Keep Your Logistics Flowing!
Flatbed shipping doesn’t have to be complicated, even when things don’t go as planned. By focusing on communication, flexibility, and clear planning, you can avoid most headaches associated with transporting open-deck loads and keep pricing competitive. Whether you're shipping in Vancouver, Calgary, or anywhere else in our beautiful Canadian countryside, remember that solid partnerships with your carriers are the foundation of seamless logistics.
At the end of the day, collaboration and preparation are the true keys to shipping success. Want to learn more? Partner with a transportation team that’s here to help you streamline your supply chain and meet your shipping goals. Here’s to stress-free flatbed shipping across Canada!