Innovations in heavy-haul trailer design are transforming the transportation of construction machinery, boosting operational efficiency and increasing safety standards.
Advancements in Trailer Design Enhance Construction Equipment Transport
Trailers such as flatbeds, step decks, and goosenecks are critical for transporting construction machinery, materials, and equipment efficiently and securely. Over the last ten years, these trailers have experienced significant changes, driven by innovations in technology, updated regulations, and evolving customer needs.
Impact of Changes in Trailer Design on Load Capacity, Safety, and Efficiency
According to Troy Geisler, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Talbert Manufacturing, major revisions to trailer permits—especially in relation to state and federal bridge laws in the U.S.—have significantly influenced trailer design. Many states have adjusted their bridge laws, permitting higher load capacities as long as certain criteria are met, such as adherence to the Federal Bridge Formula, which allows for greater weight based on axle configurations.
“With these changes, we’ve seen a demand for trailers with greater load capacities and more flexible designs, and we’ve focused on innovating to meet these evolving needs,” said Geisler. “These improvements have made modern trailers more adaptable and efficient for use on construction projects.”
Safety remains a key consideration in trailer design, according to Geisler. From the initial design phase to final delivery, trailers are tailored to meet specific customer requirements, taking into account factors such as local regulations, the types of equipment being transported, and whether the load capacity might need to change over time.
“Asking the right questions helps determine which manufacturer and dealer can best meet a customer’s specific requirements,” Geisler explained.
Nathan Uphus, Director of Sales at Felling Trailers, agrees, noting that construction equipment is becoming larger and heavier. Driven by technological advances and the increasing scale of projects, equipment manufacturers are developing new products that surpass their predecessors in size and weight.
“Over the last decade, we’ve seen a shift toward trailers with higher capacity and size to accommodate evolving construction equipment,” said Uphus.
Key Features and Innovations in Construction Equipment Trailers
Geisler notes that trailer features vary based on customer needs, but high-quality materials, such as steel with a minimum yield strength of 100,000 psi and durable apitong decking, are highly recommended for maximum durability.
“One commonly overlooked feature is camber, the arc that forms in the center of a well-designed trailer. This design prevents excessive deflection in the main beams, and when properly loaded, it flattens out to the optimal deck height,” Geisler explained. “We offer customizable camber adjustments to suit the specific requirements of the operator.”
Uphus emphasizes that air-powered ramps are often requested by customers, especially when the trailer’s braking system is air-operated, allowing for efficient use of the truck’s air system to power additional systems.
“Over the past few years, we’ve seen an increased use of air or fluid power for loading ramps, and technologies like Trailer Roll Stability and central tire inflation systems have also gained popularity,” said Uphus. “Trailer Health Monitoring systems, which alert drivers to issues with tires, brakes, and other components, are also part of the technological advancements making trailers smarter and more reliable.”
Choosing the Right Trailer for the Jobsite
Geisler advises that key considerations when selecting a trailer include the size and weight of materials, the trailer’s weight capacity, the area of the deck that can safely carry the load, travel speed, and the overall safety factors.
“Using these specifications ensures that customers get the most suitable trailer for their operations,” said Geisler. “Contractors should be cautious when selecting a manufacturer, as there are no industry-wide or government-mandated systems for trailer design.”
Uphus emphasizes that safety, reliability, and ease of use should always be top priorities in the trailer selection process.
“Understanding the specifics of what is being hauled, what equipment will tow the trailer, and any safety or functional requirements is crucial to specifying the right trailer,” said Uphus.
Trailer Performance and Safe Operation
Uphus recommends always factoring in a buffer between the trailer’s rated capacity and the actual payload.
“Too often, I see equipment being hauled that is right at the trailer’s rated capacity. This can lead to numerous issues, such as uneven weight distribution, potential overloading of individual components, and a shortened trailer lifespan,” he said.
Geisler highlights important factors to consider for safe operation, including load distribution, towing capacity, road conditions, and regular maintenance.
“Ensuring even load distribution across the axles and knowing the towing capacity of the vehicle is essential for stability,” he explained. “Regular inspections and preventative maintenance, such as checking tire pressure and brake systems, are also crucial to maintaining safe trailer operation.”
