What are the dimensions of a 13.6m flatbed semi-trailer?

Deck: 13,620 mm × 2,550 mm. Max cargo height 4,000 mm under standard EU rules.

What is the maximum payload of a 13.6m flatbed trailer?

Approximately 24,000 kg on a 5–6 axle combination.

What lashing rules apply to a flatbed trailer in the EU?

EN 12195: minimum 80% of cargo weight as forward restraint; 400 daN pre-tension per strap; EN 12195-2 certified equipment.

How much can overhang off the rear of a flatbed?

Up to 1.0m with no markings; 1–2m requires a marker board; over 2m typically requires escort.

What is the difference between a standard flatbed and a step-frame?

A step-frame lowers the main deck for taller cargo, allowing up to ~4,600 mm total height vs 4,000 mm on a standard flatbed.

Do I need a permit for a flatbed load wider than 2.55m?

Yes — any load exceeding 2.55m width requires an oversize permit in the EU.

Can I load a flatbed with a forklift?

Yes — the open deck allows forklift access from any side. Check deck point load limits; use spreader plates for heavy concentrated loads.

Trailer Dimensions Guide

13.6m Flatbed Semi-Trailer — Deck Dimensions & Cargo Specifications

Deck length, max payload, axle weight limits, overhang rules, and lashing requirements for the full-size 13.6m open-deck flatbed semi-trailer

Deck length

13.62m

Deck width

2.48m

Max cargo height

3.00m

Max payload

~25,000 kg

Max GVW (EU)

40,000 kg

Linear meters

13.60 LDM

Loading access

Top, sides & rear

Standard Flatbed vs Step-Frame — Variant Comparison

Variant	Deck (L × W)	Max cargo height	Max payload	Max GVW	Loading access
Standard Flatbed	13.62m × 2.48m	3.00m	~25,000 kg	40,000 kg	Top, sides & rear
Step-Frame	13.60m × 2.48m	3.30m	~25,000 kg	40,000 kg	Top, sides & rear

Standard Flatbed

Deck (L × W)

13.62m × 2.48m

Max cargo height

3.00m

Max payload

~25,000 kg

Max GVW

40,000 kg

Loading access

Top, sides & rear

Step-Frame

Deck (L × W)

13.60m × 2.48m

Max cargo height

3.30m

Max payload

~25,000 kg

Max GVW

40,000 kg

Loading access

Top, sides & rear

Note: Dimensions are typical for 13.6m standard flatbed semi-trailers. An open deck has no roof or sidewalls — all cargo must be secured with lashings, chains, or blocking in compliance with EN 12195. A step-frame (lowbed) variant lowers the deck behind the gooseneck for taller cargo without exceeding the 4.0m height limit. Actual deck dimensions vary by trailer builder — always verify with your carrier.

Explore the 13.6m Flatbed in 3D

Interactive 3D model of the full-size 13.6m flatbed semi-trailer — drag to rotate, scroll to zoom

Drag to rotate · Scroll to zoom

Loading Specifications

Payload, lashing rules, and axle weight limits

Lashing requirements (EN 12195)

Minimum securing forces for open-deck flatbed cargo

Friction coefficient (wood on steel) μ = 0.3 (typical)

Direct lashing (tie-down) ≥ 50% of cargo weight forward

Loop / over lashing Pre-tension ≥ 400 daN per strap

STF marking on straps Required — EN 12195-2 certified

Deck load limit 8,000 kg/m²

Typical for steel flatbed decks. Heavy point loads may require spreader plates.

Weight limits

EU axle group limits for tractor + flatbed semi-trailer

Max GVW (5–6 axles) 44,000 kg

Tractor rear bogie limit 19,000 kg

Trailer axle bogie limit 24,000 kg

Net payload available ~25,000 kg

Axle & weight distribution: Keep the cargo's longitudinal centre of gravity at 40–60% of deck length from the front kingpin to balance load across both axle groups within legal limits.

EU dimension & permit rules

Standard flatbed loads must stay within 4.0m height, 2.55m width, and 13.6m length. Overhang >1.0m rear requires a marker; >2.0m may require escort. Oversize permits are required per transit country.

Deck length 13.62m

Deck width 2.48m

Max cargo height (practical) 3.00m

Max width without permit (EU) 2.55m

Max vehicle height (EU road limit) 4.00m

13.6m Flatbed — Frequently Asked Questions

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