Finding the Right Lowboy Truck: Strategies for Sourcing Heavy Haul Rigs

[MikePhua]

Why Lowboy Trucks Are Essential in Heavy Equipment Transport
Lowboy trucks—also known as lowbed trailers or heavy haul rigs—are indispensable for moving oversized machinery such as excavators, dozers, and scrapers. Their dropped deck design allows for taller equipment to be transported legally under bridge height restrictions. For owner-operators and small contractors, sourcing a reliable lowboy truck is a critical investment—but finding the right listing can be surprisingly difficult.
Challenges in Locating Quality Listings
Operators often struggle to find comprehensive classified ads for lowboy trucks. Common issues include:

• Sparse inventory in local markets
  
• Inconsistent terminology in search engines
  
• Listings buried in general truck categories
  
• Limited photos or specs in online ads
  
• Outdated or inactive postings
  

One operator from eastern Oregon noted that despite knowing what he wanted, his searches yielded few results. He had checked Truck Paper but found the listings either too broad or lacking detail.
Terminology Explained
- Lowboy Truck: A tractor-trailer combination designed to haul heavy equipment with a low deck height
- Classified Ads: Listings posted by sellers, often in print or online marketplaces
- TNT Magazine: A biweekly publication focused on truck and trailer sales
- Haul Truck: A general term for trucks used to transport heavy loads, including lowboys and dump trucks
Alternative Sources for Listings
Operators shared several effective platforms and strategies:
- TNT Magazine

• Free subscription
  
• Delivered biweekly
  
• Focused on truck and trailer sales
  
• Often includes regional listings not found online
  

- Craigslist

• Useful for local deals
  
• Requires careful keyword filtering
  
• Best results from searching by brand and trailer type
  

- Auction Sites

• Ritchie Bros., IronPlanet, and local auction houses
  
• Increasing number of lowboy listings due to fleet downsizing
  
• Opportunity to inspect equipment before bidding
  

- Dealer Networks

• Regional truck dealers often have trade-ins or consignment units
  
• May offer financing and warranty options
  
• Better documentation and service history
  

Field Story: Auction Win in Pennsylvania
A contractor in Port Allegany, PA found his ideal lowboy truck at a regional auction. The unit was a 2005 Kenworth T800 paired with a 35-ton Rogers trailer. Though the truck had high mileage, it came with a rebuilt transmission and new tires. After inspecting it in person, he placed a winning bid well below market value. The rig has since hauled over 100 loads without issue.
Additional Parameters and Buying Tips

• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): Ensure it matches your hauling needs
  
• Deck height: Lower decks allow taller equipment transport
  
• Axle configuration: Tri-axle setups offer better weight distribution
  
• Suspension type: Air ride preferred for smoother transport
  
• Engine hours and rebuild history: Critical for older trucks
  
• DOT compliance: Verify inspection status and registration
  

Recommendations for Buyers

• Use specific search terms like “lowboy trailer,” “heavy haul truck,” or “equipment hauler”
  
• Subscribe to niche publications like TNT for broader exposure
  
• Attend local auctions with pre-sale inspection days
  
• Contact regional dealers and ask about upcoming trade-ins
  
• Keep a checklist of required specs before browsing listings
  

Conclusion: Sourcing the Right Rig Takes Strategy
Finding a lowboy truck isn’t just about browsing ads—it’s about knowing where to look, how to filter results, and when to act. Whether through auctions, magazines, or dealer networks, the right truck is out there. As one seasoned operator put it, “You don’t just buy a lowboy—you hunt for it, inspect it, and earn it.”