Flatbed Truck Buying Guide

Flatbed trucks are versatile and budget-friendly vehicles for a variety of different hauling needs. They feature an open deck design, which makes them perfect for transporting heavy payloads and oddly shaped cargo from one location to another. However, the large selection of flatbed trucks can make it challenging to select a model that suits your budget and requirements.

As your local truck dealership in Chattanooga, TN, and Richmond, VA, we are well-versed in buying flatbed trucks for distinct hauling purposes. Our experts have created this guide to discuss a few strategies to follow when purchasing a flatbed truck. Read on to learn more, and for more information, contact Chattanooga Trailer & Rental.

Aluminum Vs. Steel

The first thing businesses need to do when buying a flatbed truck is to choose between a steel and an aluminum model.

Aluminum flatbed trucks are lighter in weight and resistant to rust and corrosion. They are also more affordable than steel models, which makes them perfect for short and long-term projects. However, you will need to consider that aluminum rigs need more regular maintenance and servicing to keep going as dents and scratches can be more easily seen on this metal than on steel.

Steel is stronger and lasts longer than aluminum. This unique feature makes steel truck beds a wiser investment option for long-term projects. These rigs have greater hauling power and can perform well with minimal maintenance. If you want to add a hassle-free flatbed truck to your fleet, a steel model can be better than an aluminum model.

Tapered Corners Vs. Straight Corners

Next, you will want to determine whether to get a flatbed truck with straight corners or tapered ones.

If you transport heavy payloads through mountainous areas and narrow intersections often, you will want to get a flatbed truck with tapered corners. These models have a better turn radius and are perfect for hauling cargo on uneven terrain. On the other hand, straight corners are the standard options that most manufacturers offer. If you need extra room on your truck bed for your cargo, you might want to get one of these models.

New Vs. Used

Finally, you will want to determine whether you should get a new or a used flatbed truck for your job site. Although brand-new models come with a higher price tag, they are shiny and spotless, and you can continue to use them until the end of their natural lifespan. On the other hand, used flatbed trucks are more affordable than their new counterparts, but you will need to ensure you are getting the quality for the price you are paying.

Explore various options before finalizing your decision and get the highest quality flatbed truck you can reasonably afford.

We hope you find these tips handy when purchasing a flatbed truck for your transportation business. If you need more advice or want to explore a few models in person before making your final decision, visit Chattanooga Trailer & Rental. We have an impressive collection of flatbed trucks and trailers from premium brands, and we can help you select a model that suits your budget and unique hauling requirements. To peruse our latest inventory, stop by one of our dealerships in Chattanooga, TN, or Richmond, VA.