Short answer
Semi flatbeds rent for about $40 to $75 a day (REPOWR). A typical 48 ft deck is 102 in wide and 60 to 62 in off the ground, so freight over about 8.5 ft tall breaks a 13 ft 6 in height limit (ILS chart).
Size
Typical figures from the ILS chart
| Measure | Typical 48 ft flatbed |
|---|---|
| Deck length | 48 ft (53 ft also common) |
| Deck width | 102 in |
| Deck height | 60 to 62 in |
| Legal freight height | about 8.5 ft |
| Max freight weight | about 48,000 lb |
What comes with it and what does not
Most rental flatbeds come bare: the winches and rails are there, the straps, chains, binders, edge protectors and tarps usually are not. Ask the branch. Plan securement to the federal cargo securement rules in 49 CFR Part 393, Subpart I before you load.
Flatbed or step deck
If the freight is over about 8.5 ft tall, a step deck carries it about 10 ft tall without an oversize permit. If it is wider than 8.5 ft, either trailer needs an oversize permit from each state on the route.
Questions people ask
Do rental flatbeds come with straps and tarps?
Usually not. Lessors rent the trailer; securement gear and tarps are your own unless the agreement lists them. Ask before pickup.
Do I need a CDL to pull a rented flatbed?
Yes, for almost every semi trailer. A tractor and trailer with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 lb or more, where the trailer is rated over 10,000 lb, is a Class A vehicle under 49 CFR 383.91, so the driver needs a Class A CDL.
Sources
Last reviewed October 29, 2026. Rates, branches and terms change; confirm with the lessor before you book.