Differences Between Lowboy and RGN Trailers: Which One is Right for Your Heavy Haul Transport Needs?

Are you planning to transport heavy equipment, but are not sure which trailer is best for you?

Well, you just landed on the right page!

When it comes to heavy haul transportation, the choice of the right trailer can make a big difference for you. It not only helps you ensure a smooth transportation, but it’s more cost-effective and saves you from a logistical nightmare.

I am sure you must have come across the two most popular kinds of trailers, lowboy trailers and RGN trailers. And must be confused about which one suits you best, right?

I know, both of them look alike at first glance, but trust me, they are not! Each of them is designed to handle massive equipment that is not easy to manage by a normal trailer. But if you dig deeper, you will find the differences between lowboy and RGN trailers. From their design, capacity, to loading methods, there is a lot to learn about.

But don’t worry, this is the last time you will feel confused about it. Because after reading this blog, you will know exactly which trailer is best for which kind of heavy equipment. I will tell you about all the key differences between Lowboy and RGN trailers to help you understand them better.

So, come on! Let’s take a deep dive and explore the differences between lowboy and RGN trailers.

What is a Lowboy Trailer? Understanding Its Design and Dimensions

Let us first understand what a Lowboy trailer is.

Well, it is one of the most common types of trailers used for heavy equipment transportation , especially for oversized loads that exceed the standard size and height limits.

One of the most defining feature of a lowboy trailer that differentiate it from others is its low deck height, which is around 18-24 inches above the ground. This is exactly what makes it possible for it to carry tall equipment without exceeding the maximum legal height limit in most American states, which is 13.5-14.5 feet.

Key Design Features of Lowboy Trailers:

• A gooseneck upfront, which is connected to the truck, offering stability to the trailer.
• An opening in the middle that forms a well or deck that is considerably lower than regular flatbeds.
• A back deck with wheels.
• Available in 2 axles or higher, depending on the weight capacity requirement.

Typical Dimensions of Lowboy Trailers:

• Width: 8.5 feet (102 inches)
• Deck height: 18–24 inches
• Weight capacity: Approximately 40,000 pounds on a typical 2 axle lowboy, with the capacity to extend to 80,000 pounds with extra axles.

Advantages of Lowboy Trailers:

• Excellent in transporting heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators and loaders.
• Capable of supporting up to 12 feet of height, which is necessary in industries where large equipment is involved.
• Its design allows it to be used on long hauls.

That is why lowboys are the most used trailer options by construction companies and contractors who often transport oversized equipment.

So, if you are one of them looking to transport your heavy equipment, reach out to Transport Experts Inc. and let the experts handle your freight. They are one of the leading transport companies in the USA, known for their safe and efficient shipping for heavy equipment both nationally and internationally.

Contact them now and get your quote!

What is an RGN Trailer? Key Features and Dimensions Explained

Now, let us focus our attention on RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers.

It is a specialised kind of lowboy trailer that goes one step beyond when we talk about versatility. The key difference that distinguishes it from other lowboy trailers is its detachable gooseneck, which allows it to detach from the front to create a convenient ramp.

And you know what this ramp does?

It allows your equipment to drive directly into the trailer while making loading and unloading easier and more convenient.

Key Features of RGN Trailers:

• A detachable gooseneck for drive-on loading.
• Multiple axle setups, sometimes up to 20 axles, for extreme weight capacities.
• Hydraulic or mechanical systems for detaching the gooseneck.

Typical Dimensions of RGN Trailers:

• Width: 8.5 feet (102 inches)
• Deck height: Around 18–24 inches (similar to lowboys)
• Weight capacity: Standard models have a 40,000-80,000-pound weight capacity, and heavy-duty RGNs are supposed to carry up to 150,000 pounds or even more.

Advantages of RGN Trailers:

• Applicable to extremely heavy or tall equipment, including cranes, big excavators, or oilfield equipment.
• Self-propelled machinery can be loaded much more easily, without the use of external lifting equipment.
• Very adaptable to extreme weight using additional axles.

RGNs are often the choice when you are regularly working with heavy haul transportation and have to load huge machinery quickly and safely.

Lowboy Trailer vs RGN Trailer: Key Differences in Design and Use

Now we know about both the trailers. And I am sure that you must have noticed the key differences between lowboy and RGN trailers. But let me summarise it for you to help you determine which ones suit you better.

 

	Lowboy Trailer	RGN Trailer
Loading & Unloading	It requires ramps or a crane to load machinery because the gooseneck is not adjustable.	Has a removable gooseneck that folds out to a ramp, enabling machinery to pull on and off.
Weight Capacity	It is generally used to carry 40,000-80,000 pounds.	It may be fitted with several axles to accommodate 150,000 pounds and above.
Dimensions & Height Capacity	The decks on both are low, and the lowboy trailer dimensions range between 18-24 inches, with tall loads of 12 feet.	RGN trailer dimensions are longer in depth and length, and can hold larger items.
Best Uses	Best suited to loads that are tall, but not overweight (bulldozers, backhoes, pavers).	Ideal usage is in a very heavy self-propelled machine (cranes, drilling rigs, oil field equipment).

These are the key differences that make it possible for you to choose the right trailer for your next heavy equipment shipping.

We can say that when height clearance and stability are important to you, a lowboy is the way to go. When you require safe loading and very high capacity, then choose an RGN.

But if you are still not sure about how to ship your heavy equipment, then the best way is to contact Transport Experts Inc.. Their logistics experts will assist you in selecting the ideal trailer to carry your oversized equipment..

When to Use a Lowboy Trailer vs an RGN Trailer for Your Transport Needs

I am sure that you must still be wondering about which one to book for your next shipment. But don’t worry, I’ve got the right plan to help you choose the best option for you.

These key Differences between lowboy and RGN trailers will guide you to make your next move. From the lowboy trailer dimensions to the RGN trailer Dimensions, you now know everything that you need to know about these beauties.

So, it’s time to make your decision and choose the best one for you. Here is a practical guide to help you make this tough choice.

Lowboy Trailer is Best Suited For:

• Your machine or equipment is quite high but not excessively heavy.
• You must maintain low cost (lowboys can usually be cheaper than RGN).
• You have loading machines, such as ramps and cranes.

RGN Trailer is Best Suited For:

• You are carrying very heavy machinery that weighs over 80,000 pounds.
• Self-propelled machinery requires drive-on loading.
• You desire axle flexibility with changing weight needs.

Industry Examples:

• Construction: Bulldozers can be loaded onto a lowboy, whilst cranes are more suited to RGNs.
• Oil and Gas : Heavy rigs and drilling equipment are commonly carried on RGNs.
• Agriculture : Depending on size and weight, tractors and harvesters can be used on either of them.

Not only can you save money by utilising the right trailer, but you may also prevent compliance problems and risks associated with transportation by matching your cargo type with the appropriate trailer.

Regulations and Compliance: What You Need to Know for Lowboy and RGN Trailers

The transportation of heavy or oversized loads in the USA is not just about choosing the right trailer, through identifying key differences between lowboy and RGN trailers. But it is also about following legal boundaries and regulations to ensure a successful shipment.

Both lowboy and RGN trailers are considered specialised types of transport equipment, and thus, the regulations are not as lenient as those of a typical flatbed for car transportation .

Here is what you need to know:

1. Weight Restrictions

• A typical 2-axle lowboy is capable of carrying 40,000 pounds.
• The limit could be increased to 80,000 pounds by adding axles.
• Depending on the number of axles, RGNs can easily exceed 150,000 pounds.
• But after you pass federal weight limits, you will have to have oversize/ overweight permits.

2. Height and Width Restrictions

• The trailers are usually restricted to a legal height of 13 feet 6 inches by federal law.
• It is possible to stay beneath this limit even with tall machinery because Lowboy and RGN trailers have deck heights as low as 18-24 inches.
• The width is most commonly limited to 8 feet 6 inches, and anything beyond this is permitted with a permit.

3. Permits and Escorts

• Oversized loads need state permits, and these are different depending on where you are hauling.
• Very heavy or too wide loads also might need escort vehicles (pilot cars) to be safe.
• Some states impose travel restrictions (such as no oversize loads during rush hours or at night).

4. Safety Compliance

Both trailers should adhere to the regulations of the Department of Transportation (DOT), including the requirements in the fields of securement, distance between axles, and lighting.

No matter which type of trailer you use, either a lowboy or an RGN, ensure your transport partner is knowledgeable of these compliance requirements, and it will help you avoid paying fines, waiting time, and unwarranted headaches.

And who can be better than Transport Experts Inc. at this? So, reach out and make your shipment safe and easy.

Why Choose Transport Experts Inc. for Your Lowboy and RGN Trailer Transport Needs?

Why bother with all of this hassle when you can simply choose Transport Experts Inc. for a safe and hassle-free shipping experience?

They know that transporting heavy machinery is not all about transporting freight, but it is about providing relief. Whether it is tall machinery that requires a lowboy trailer or machines that require oversized equipment that is self-propelled, they can get you covered with an RGN trailer.

Here is why businesses across the USA put their trust in Transport Experts Inc. when it comes to shipments :

• Diverse Fleet: They have the right trailer to do every job, including the standard lowboys or multi-axle RGNs.
• Expertise in Heavy Haul: Their team of experts has years of experience in moving construction equipment through complete oilfield rigs.
  Compliance-First Approach: They take care of everything from Permits, routing, to regulations, so that you do not need to bother about this.
• On-Time Delivery: Time is money, and we are proud of punctual scheduling and implementation.
• Safety as a Priority: Each load is accurate and secured to the standards of DOT.

Regardless of whether you want to do a one-time haul or require ongoing transport services, Transport Experts Inc. is your reliable partner when it comes to both lowboy and RGN trailer solutions.
Are you ready to shift your oversized equipment? Call Contact Transport Experts Inc. now, and they will transport your heavy load safely and efficiently!

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