How To Pick The Best Flatbed Trailer For Heavy Equipment

From bumper-pull to gooseneck flatbeds, learn how to choose the trailer that fits your equipment, your budget, and your hauling needs in Pennsylvania.

Hauling heavy equipment is tough enough without worrying if your trailer can handle the load. One wrong choice, and skid steers can tip, tractors can slide, or machinery can shift, turning a simple job into a costly and stressful problem. Choosing the right flatbed trailer is about more than just getting the job done. It ensures safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.

In this guide, we’ll show Pennsylvania farmers, contractors, and business owners how to pick the right size and style, what features matter most, and tips for hauling equipment safely and effectively.

Why Flatbed Trailers Are the Go-To for Equipment Hauling

Flatbed trailers are designed for versatility and strength. Unlike enclosed trailers, they allow you to load equipment from the sides, the rear, or even with ramps. This flexibility makes them ideal for oversized or irregularly shaped equipment that wouldn’t fit inside an enclosed trailer.

Common uses for flatbed trailers include:

Construction equipment hauling (excavators, skid steers, loaders)
Agricultural hauling (tractors, hay equipment, sprayers)
Utility and service work (generators, small machinery, supplies)
Vehicle transport (cars, trucks, UTVs)

If you need a trailer that can adapt to multiple uses and withstand heavy-duty work, a flatbed is one of the best investments you can make.

7 Key Considerations When Choosing a Flatbed Trailer

Not all flatbed trailers are created equal. Before making your purchase, consider the following:

1. Weight Capacity (GVWR)

The most important factor is the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This tells you the maximum load the trailer can safely carry. Always consider the weight of your heaviest equipment plus attachments and accessories. Choosing a trailer that’s under-rated for your load isn’t just inconvenient. It’s unsafe.

2. Trailer Length and Width

Flatbeds come in various sizes. A smaller equipment hauler might be 16–20 feet, while heavy-duty goosenecks can stretch 30–40 feet. Think about your equipment size and whether you’ll need room for multiple pieces of machinery at once.

3. Hitch Type: Bumper Pull vs. Gooseneck

Bumper pull trailers are easier to maneuver and work well for smaller loads.
Gooseneck trailers attach over the truck bed, offering more stability, higher weight ratings, and better handling. Especially for large, heavy equipment.

4. Deck Height and Style

Low-profile decks make loading easier and improve stability. Some trailers come with tilt decks that eliminate the need for ramps, which is perfect for wheeled equipment.

5. Loading Options

Consider whether you’ll need fold-down ramps, detachable ramps, or a hydraulic tilt system. Your equipment type (tracked vs. wheeled) will often determine the best option.

6. Material: Steel vs. Aluminum

Steel trailers are tough, durable, and generally more affordable—but they’re heavier and prone to rust if not maintained.
Aluminum trailers (like EBY) are lighter, corrosion-resistant, and hold their value extremely well. They’re ideal for businesses that want long-term reliability with less maintenance.

7. Braking System

Most heavy-duty trailers require electric brakes on all axles. Make sure your tow vehicle is equipped with a brake controller. Some higher-end models also offer hydraulic or electric-over-hydraulic braking systems for superior stopping power.

Popular Flatbed Trailer Options

At Brechbill Trailers, we carry a wide range of flatbeds suited for equipment hauling. Some of the most popular options include:

Utility Equipment Haulers – Great for small tractors, skid steers, and light machinery.
Tilt Deck Trailers – Easy loading for wheeled equipment; no ramps needed.
Gooseneck Flatbeds – Heavy-duty hauling with maximum stability and deck space.
Aluminum Flatbeds (EBY) – Lightweight yet rugged, with unbeatable resale value.

Each of these serves a different purpose, so your choice should be based on your equipment type and hauling needs.

Safety Features to Look For

When hauling equipment, safety is everything. Look for trailers that include:

Heavy-duty tie-down points (D-rings or stake pockets)
LED lighting for visibility and compliance
Durable fenders to protect tires and equipment
Breakaway kits in case of accidental disconnection
High-traction decking (treated wood, steel tread plate, or aluminum flooring)

Cutting corners on safety features can cost far more than the savings.

FAQ

Do I need a CDL to tow a flatbed trailer?

It depends on the combined weight rating of your truck and trailer. In Pennsylvania, a CDL may be required if the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeds 26,001 lbs. Always check your state and federal requirements.

Should I buy new or used?

New trailers offer warranties, longer lifespan, and peace of mind. Used trailers can save money upfront but may come with hidden maintenance issues. We carry both and can help you weigh the pros and cons.

How do I know what size trailer I need?

Measure your largest piece of equipment, then add extra length for attachments and room to maneuver. When in doubt, it’s better to size up. You’ll rarely regret having more deck space.

Can I finance a flatbed trailer?

Absolutely. Many of our customers finance their trailers to keep cash flow flexible. We offer financing options to help you get the right equipment without straining your budget.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right flatbed trailer comes down to understanding your equipment, your hauling frequency, and your budget. For smaller jobs, a bumper-pull equipment hauler might be perfect. For heavy-duty, daily hauling, a gooseneck or aluminum flatbed is often worth the investment.

No matter your needs, Brechbill Trailers has the inventory and expertise to match you with the right trailer. Our team can walk you through weight ratings, hitch types, and safety features so you leave confident in your purchase.

Stop by our lot or browse our online inventory today and make equipment hauling easier, safer, and more efficient with the perfect flatbed trailer.