Flatbed Trailer or Uplaoder ?

WHICH TRAILER IS BETTER?

Whether a flatbed trailer or an uploader is better depends on the intended use of the trailer. The differences between the two variants result from their design. On a flatbed trailer, the wheels are located next to the cargo bed. On an uploader, the wheels are placed underneath the loading area. The usable loading area of the flatbed trailer is therefore smaller than that of the uploader. On the other hand, it is particularly suitable for transporting heavy loads.

 

Flatbed trailer or Uplaoder – The advantages & disadvantages of both designs at a glance

Flatbed trailer

–  Low centre of gravity
– low susceptibility to wind due to wide track
– low loading height
– cheap to manufacture

Tieflader

Uploader

– Sidewalls can be folded down all round, thus side loading possible
– increased loading width
– also available in long lengths
– Available as tridem

Hochlader

Does the number of axles play a role in the decision between flatbedd trailer or uploader?
Regardless of whether it is a flatbed or an upload trailer: Both trailer variants can be designed as single-axle or tandem-axle trailers, regardless of the design. Only the tridem variant (three-axle trailer) is limited to uplaoders.

Even when deciding whether it should be a braked or unbraked trailer, one is not bound to one of the two variants – i.e. flatbed trailers or uploaders. Both trailer types are available with and without brakes.

Which trailer for which transport purpose?

The question of a flatbed trailer or an uploaders usually becomes clear quickly when you think of concrete scenarios for use. For which transport purpose a flatbed trailer is better suited and when it makes sense to think about an uplaoder is best explained by means of examples.

A flatbed trailer for transporting boats, heavy equipment & livestock

When a low loading height is required and side loading is not a priority, a flatbed trailer is a good choice. It is particularly popular for all work around the house and garden. This is also because it is cheaper than an uploader. However, this does not mean any loss of stability. On the contrary, a flatbed trailer is a popular choice for transporting boats or livestock, because the position of the wheels next to the loading area results in a lower loading height and a lower centre of gravity.

In short:

With a flatbed trailer, you get a stable trailer that can also take on heavy loads at a comparatively low price.


Zu den Pongratz Tiefladern


Ein Pongratz Tieflader im Einsatz
A Pongratz flatbed trailer in use – Source: Bernhard Kronberger

An uploader for the transport of vehicles or palletised goods

Flatbed trailer or better an uploader? When it comes to transporting palletised goods or vehicles, you are better off with an uploader. Since the drop sides of this type of trailer can be folded down, it can also be loaded from the side – for example with a forklift truck. This is a great advantage, especially when transporting pallets with the trailer.

A flatbed trailer is usually not suitable for transporting vehicles because its useful width is too narrow. Since the wheels of an uploader are under the loading area, the entire width can be used for loading. Therefore, it is clear who wins the flatbed trailer or uplaoder race in this case: the uploader.

The ideal trailer for vehicle transport is the Pongratz PHL series high loader.

With its integrated rail shaft, it can be used immediately as a vehicle transporter. It is available in different lengths, up to a maximum of 8 metres.


Zu den Pongratz Hochladern


The Pongratz PHL uploader is perfect for transporting vehicles – Source: Emes Garage

Ein Pongratz Hochlader im Einsatz
A Pongratz uploader in use – Source: Andreas Gaber

Our conclusion on the question: flatbed traielr or uploader ?

As is so often the case, there is no better or worse. Regardless of whether you decide on a flatbed trailer or an uploader, it is important to define your trailer needs as precisely as possible in advance. The more detailed you know your future and possible uses, the better you can narrow down which trailer is the right one.

You will definitely make the right choice with a Pongratz trailer.

Would you like personal advice? Contact us or visit a dealer!


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