A Melton truck with a patriotic wrap hauling steel tubes

Why the Steel Industry Relies on Flatbed Shipping

For many industries, steel is a necessity for manufacturing parts or constructing buildings. But getting that heavy, oversized steel from the mill to the job site can be a daunting task – that’s where flatbed shipping comes in.

If you’re new to moving steel or trying to figure out the most efficient way to do it, here’s why flatbed is the solution most steel businesses trust.

    Types of Steel Commodities Commonly Shipped

    Steel is manufactured, or imported, and transported in a variety of forms, each with unique handling requirements. The most commonly shipped steel commodities include:

    • Steel coils: Heavy, tightly wound rolls of sheet steel.
    • Flat Steel Products: Flat, wide slabs used in manufacturing and construction.
    • Steel bars, rods, and beams: Long, rigid components ideal for infrastructure.
    • Pipes and tubing: Used extensively in construction, oil & gas, and water systems.
    • Structural steel components: Custom-fabricated parts for bridges, buildings, and machinery.
    A Melton flatbed truck with a tarped load

    Challenges in Shipping Steel Commodities

    In 2023, it’s reported that 89.7 million tons of raw steel was produced in the U.S., their biggest users being the construction and automotive industries. With such a large variety of steel commodities, it’s expected that shipping steel comes with some hurdles. Here are some of the most common challenges that you might face during the steel shipping process:

    • Overweight or Over-Dimensional Loads: Steel shipments may exceed typical truck weight limits or extend beyond standard trailer widths and lengths.
    • Load Securement: Proper securement techniques and equipment (i.e. chains, straps, edge protectors) are critical to avoid load shifts and damage.
    • Weather Sensitivity: Rust-prone items like coils and plates must be protected from moisture, requiring tarps or covered trailer options.
    • Handling Safety: Improper loading and unloading can pose significant risks to drivers, dock workers, or simply the load itself.
    • Regulatory Compliance: Over-dimensional steel loads may require special permits and routing considerations depending on the region.

    How Flatbed Shipping Solves These Challenges

    Flatbed trailers are the preferred solution in the steel industry, as they’re utilized in shipping an estimated 70% of steel freight, and the flatbed trucking industry was valued at around $1.11 trillion in 2023. Here’s how flatbed trailers can solve your shipping problems.

    • Easy Access: Unlike enclosed trailers, flatbeds allow for side, top, and rear loading. This is essential when dealing with cranes or forklifts loading unwieldy or oversized steel items.
    • Specialized Trailers: Flatbed trailers come in several varieties like step decks, double drops, and extendable trailers, flatbeds easily accommodate ‘ugly’ freight dimensions and weights. This flexibility ensures compliance with DOT regulations while optimizing load planning. Learn more about what each type of specialized trailer is used for on our blog.
    • Securement-Friendly Design: Flatbeds are equipped with tie-down points ideal for chaining and strapping steel loads securely. Experienced drivers know the nuances of weight distribution and securement required for steel freight.
    • Protection Options: Flatbed trailers can be outfitted with tarps, side kits, or Conestoga systems to protect loads from environmental damage. Steel coils, in particular, are often shipped on coil racks or saddles to prevent rolling.
    • Reduced Handling: Flatbeds allow loading steel directly onto a trailer, often eliminating the need for additional packaging or warehousing, streamlining the supply chain and reducing additional labor costs.

      When Should You Consider Shipping with Flatbed?

      If your business handles any of the following, flatbed shipping is likely the right choice:

      • You ship large, bulky, or heavy steel items
      • Your freight requires crane or forklift loading
      • You need easy access to multiple loading angles
      • Your shipments must comply with special securement or dimensional requirements
      • You prioritize speed and direct-to-site deliveries

      When it comes to doing it right, Melton Truck Lines has your back. With decades of experience in flatbed transportation, we know the ins and outs of steel freight- how to secure it, protect it, and get it delivered on time.

      If you’re just getting started with steel shipping or looking to expand your operations, understanding how flatbed logistics fits into your supply chain is key. It’s not just about moving freight- it’s about partnering with a carrier who helps drive your business forward.

      At Melton, we make sure your steel gets where it needs to go, safely and reliably, every time. Learn more about the flatbed services we offer here.

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