flatbed trl. 102"vs 96"

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by High Seas, Feb 2, 2010.

  1. High Seas

    High Seas Light Load Member

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    Question:
    Will a 96" trailer keep me from hauling many loads ? I can buy a nice rust-free spread axle combo trailer for cheap and pay cash, versus a newer 102" that will have to be financed for 24 months.
    Is the reason it's cheap cuz loads are harder to find loads??
    Thanks
     
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  3. kelgar50

    kelgar50 Medium Load Member

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    You really need a 102" if you want to be able to get more loads, 96".
    Alot of the shippers are req that you have 102" air rides these days.
     
  4. Native Dancer

    Native Dancer Heavy Load Member

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    Portland, Or.
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    I have a 96" because some areas I go to do not allow 102". In the 9 years I have had this trailer I have lost one load because of width and gained several because of weight.
     
  5. blackw900

    blackw900 The Grandfather of Flatbed

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    I have a 96" wide and have never lost a load because of it and have in fact been able to get some loads because it weighs less than a 102".
     
  6. Brickman

    Brickman Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    When I was flat bedding I only lost out on a couple loads because it was a 96''. I think it was like 3 in 3.5 yrs.
    I'd go with the cash purchase myself.
     
  7. 112racing

    112racing Road Train Member

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    ditto here
     
  8. High Seas

    High Seas Light Load Member

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    Dec 15, 2009
    Middle, GA
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    Thank you for the replies, I hadn't thought about the weight difference. I'm going to check with one customer tomorrow on the width issue.
     
  9. kajidono

    kajidono Road Train Member

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    Do the same rules about overhang apply to 96" trailers? Like would a 100" wide load on a 96" be considered a wide load?
     
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  10. Allow Me.

    Allow Me. Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    You can have a 102" wide load on a 96" wide trailer and be legal.
     
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  11. kajidono

    kajidono Road Train Member

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    ####. I need to bug the company about trading in this 102 then. They got it primarily for hauling their own stuff which leaves a good 8" of empty space on both sides. I really need the weight savings.
     
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