Partial flatbed shipping cost vs full truck?
Cost breakdown and pricing guide from Gateway Distribution, flatbed shipping in Maine, ME.
You need to ship machinery or steel but aren't sure if partial flatbed is actually cheaper than booking a whole truck. Many Maine shippers assume full truck is always more expensive, but the math depends on how much space your freight actually uses.
Partial flatbed charges by linear feet, while full truck gives you the entire 48-foot trailer. If your load takes up 20 feet or less, partial is usually cheaper. If you need 30+ feet, full truck often costs less per foot.
Partial flatbed typically runs $3-8 per linear foot depending on weight and destination. Full truck ranges from $2,500-4,500 for most Maine routes. The break-even point sits around 24-28 feet of trailer space. Heavy loads like steel beams cost more per foot than lighter machinery.
Get quotes for both options before deciding. Contact Gateway Distribution with your exact dimensions, weight, and destination. Most loads under half a trailer save money with partial shipping. Loads over 30 feet usually benefit from booking the whole truck.
Once you pick the right option, your freight moves efficiently without paying for unused space. You'll know exactly what to expect and can plan your budget accordingly.
Other things people in Maine ask
shipping long steel beams flatbed
Long steel and structural materials need flatbed trucks with proper tie-down points and load distribution. Look for carriers who specialize in steel hauling and have the right equipment to secure your specific beam lengths safely.
book flatbed shipping short notice
Flatbed capacity can be tight, especially for oversized loads. Call carriers now to check availability. Be flexible on pickup dates within your window. Having exact dimensions, weight, and loading requirements ready speeds up the booking process.
who loads flatbed truck shipper or driver
Most flatbed shipments are loaded by the shipper using their own equipment. The driver secures and tarps the load but doesn't usually handle the actual loading. Confirm this when you book so everyone knows who's responsible for what.
open flatbed vs covered flatbed shipping
Tarps protect against rain and road debris but not extreme weather. If your equipment has sensitive electronics or can't get wet at all, covered flatbed is safer. For basic steel and machinery, properly secured tarps usually do the job at lower cost.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles flatbed shipping (ftl & ltl) in Maine and the area around it.