Flatbed Trucking in Indiana

Flatbed trucking is best for freight that cannot be loaded into a standard enclosed trailer because of its size, shape, weight, or loading method. Common Indiana flatbed shipments include steel, lumber, machinery, construction materials, building products, and equipment loaded by crane or forklift from the side or top.

Flatbed shipments use a standard open deck, while step deck trailers have a lower rear deck for taller freight that may exceed legal height on a standard flatbed. Sims Global Solutions also coordinates RGN, lowboy, multi-axle, and double drop equipment when freight requires lower deck height, heavier capacity, or specialized loading.

Yes. Sims Global Solutions coordinates oversized and heavy haul transportation, including escort services, permit support, route planning, and specialized trailer selection. For Indiana loads that exceed standard legal dimensions or weight, the team works with permitting resources to plan compliant movement while considering road restrictions, weather, traffic, and delivery timing.

Pricing is based on freight dimensions, weight, equipment type, lane, permits, escorts, loading requirements, and timing. Flatbed, step deck, RGN, and heavy haul shipments each have different cost factors. Sims Global Solutions uses carrier network access and proprietary quoting tools to identify cost-effective options for the load requirements.

Flatbed freight is secured using the appropriate combination of chains, binders, straps, blocking, bracing, and tarping when needed. The required securement method depends on the freight type, weight, dimensions, and surface contact points. Proper securement helps prevent shifting, protects cargo, and supports compliance with transportation safety standards.

Yes. Sims Global Solutions provides real-time shipment tracking through SimsTrak, its Transportation Management System. Customers can quote, schedule, and track shipments with improved visibility, while dedicated Logistics Coordinators monitor loads from pickup through delivery and provide updates to help reduce uncertainty during transit.

Flatbed shipments can often be scheduled quickly when freight details are complete, including dimensions, weight, commodity, pickup hours, delivery requirements, and loading method. For oversized, heavy haul, or permitted loads, planning may take longer because routing, permits, escorts, and specialized equipment must be coordinated before pickup.

Yes. Sims Global Solutions supports freight movement across Indiana, all 50 states, North America, and international lanes through its broader logistics network. The company serves shippers ranging from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, with multi-modal options including truckload, LTL, expedited, intermodal, drayage, warehousing, and specialized freight.