Reliable OTR Flatbed Trucking Solutions

OTR flatbed trucking moves open-deck freight over long distances, typically across state lines or nationwide lanes. It is used when cargo cannot fit inside a standard dry van or needs top, side, crane, or forklift loading. Common freight includes machinery, steel, construction materials, building products, oversized equipment, and awkwardly shaped loads requiring securement expertise.

Flatbeds are commonly used for construction materials, lumber, steel, pipe, machinery, equipment, prefabricated components, crates, and other freight that is too tall, wide, heavy, or irregular for enclosed trailers. Sims Global Solutions also supports related open-deck options such as step decks, RGN, lowboys, multi-axle trailers, and double drops for more specialized requirements.

Flatbed loads are secured using equipment such as chains, binders, straps, edge protection, tarps, and blocking based on the freight’s size, weight, shape, and center of gravity. Proper securement helps prevent shifting, damage, and safety issues in transit. Loads are planned around DOT requirements, carrier capabilities, and the handling needs of each shipment.

Yes. For oversized, overweight, or over-dimensional freight, Sims Global Solutions coordinates with permitting and route planning resources to help keep shipments compliant. Depending on the load and route, services may include permit support, escort coordination, height and weight restriction review, and planning around road conditions, weather, and traffic considerations.

Yes. Sims Global Solutions uses SimsTrak, its Transportation Management System, to provide real-time shipment visibility, tracking updates, consolidated billing, and customized reporting. Customers can quote, schedule, and track shipments with accurate data during and after transit, helping logistics teams stay informed and respond quickly when timing or routing issues arise.

Quote and scheduling timelines depend on freight dimensions, weight, lane, equipment type, and whether permits or escorts are required. Standard flatbed shipments can often move more quickly than highly specialized freight, while oversized or heavy haul loads need additional planning. Providing complete load details upfront helps the team secure capacity and route options efficiently.

Available open-deck equipment may include standard flatbeds, step decks, RGN or lowboy trailers, multi-axle configurations, and double drop trailers. Step decks help accommodate taller freight with a lower deck height, while RGN and double drops are often used for heavy machinery, tall equipment, and loads requiring specialized loading or lower clearance.

Flatbed trucking can cost more than dry van service because it often requires specialized equipment, securement labor, tarping, route planning, or permits. However, it is the right mode when freight cannot be enclosed or needs crane, forklift, top, or side loading. Sims Global Solutions helps evaluate truckload, flatbed, intermodal, and specialized options for cost-effective routing.