Open deckFlatbed Trailer
Useful for side, rear and overhead loading where freight can travel on an open deck.
- Fabricated materials
- Machinery and equipment
- Crane or forklift loading
Borderline Transport
Fleet & Equipment
A practical visual guide to common trailer and support-equipment categories, what each is used for, and what must be confirmed before dispatch.
Equipment Overview
Common transport configurations
The load determines the equipment. Use these categories as a starting point, then confirm dimensions, weight, loading method, route and current availability.
Open deck
Low deckLowbed / Heavy-Haul Configuration
May be considered for tall or heavy machinery where deck height and load profile matter.
- Construction equipment
- Industrial machinery
- Route / permit review
Weather protectionCurtain-side / Enclosed Trailer
For suitable commercial freight that benefits from protection and conventional loading access.
- Palletized cargo
- Weather-sensitive freight
- Dock / side access planning
Container movementContainer Chassis
Used for containerized freight where terminal access, container size and total weight are known.
- Container dimensions
- Terminal requirements
- Gross weight confirmation
Loading supportForklift / Crane Support
Loading equipment can become part of the transport plan when the site cannot self-load or unload.
- Lift capacity
- Reach and access
- Ground conditions
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Not sure?Start with the cargo
Send the load dimensions, total weight, origin, destination and loading method. Equipment can then be assessed from the shipment backwards.
Request an equipment assessment →Important: The categories above explain common transport equipment. They do not guarantee that a specific unit, capacity or configuration is available for every route or date.
Quick Comparison
Equipment selection at a glance
Final suitability depends on the shipment and route.
| Equipment type | Typical role | Questions to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Flatbed | Open-deck freight, materials, machinery | Securement, weather protection, loading access |
| Lowbed / low deck | Heavy or tall machinery | Weight, clearance, loading angle, permits |
| Curtain-side / enclosed | Protected commercial freight | Door / interior dimensions, dock and side access |
| Container chassis | Containerized freight | Container size, gross weight, terminal access |
| Support equipment | Loading / unloading assistance | Capacity, reach, ground and setup space |
Equipment Selection
Choose equipment from the load backwards
Trailer names alone do not determine suitability. The cargo dimensions, weight distribution, loading method, route and site access should drive the equipment decision.
Flatbed / open deck
Useful for side, rear or overhead loading and freight that does not require a fully enclosed body.
Lowbed / low deck
Often considered for taller or heavier machinery where lower deck height improves the transport profile.
Curtain-side / enclosed
May suit palletized or weather-sensitive cargo where side access and protection are both useful.
Box trailer
Enclosed equipment can protect conventional freight where loading dimensions fit the body opening.
Specialized equipment
Unusual cargo may need configurations assessed specifically for the load and route.
Support equipment
Forklifts, cranes or site machinery may be part of the loading plan depending on the shipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning questions
Does Borderline Transport guarantee every equipment type shown?
No. The fleet page explains equipment categories associated with freight and project transport. Current availability and exact specifications should be confirmed for each shipment.
Why are trailer dimensions important?
Deck length, width, height and load rating determine whether cargo can be carried legally and secured properly.
What if the required trailer is not obvious?
Provide the cargo dimensions, weight, loading method and route. Equipment can then be assessed around the shipment rather than selected by name alone.
Planning a shipment or equipment move?
Share the origin, destination, dimensions, weight and timing so the right equipment can be assessed.