plateauwagen

A plateauwagen is a type of flatbed trailer or truck characterized by its entirely flat loading area with no sides or a roof. This design allows for the easy loading and unloading of oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped cargo that would be difficult to manage on other types of vehicles. The flat surface provides maximum flexibility for securing various loads, often using straps, chains, or tarpaulins.

Plateauwagens are commonly used in construction for transporting machinery, building materials, and large equipment. They are also employed in logistics for moving vehicles, containers, and industrial components. The absence of fixed sides means that the width and height of the cargo are limited only by road regulations. Braking systems are typically a significant feature, given the potential weight of the loads they carry.

These vehicles come in various sizes, from smaller trailers towed by pickup trucks to large, multi-axle tractor-trailers. Some plateauwagens may include a ramp or a winch system to assist with loading self-propelled or rolling equipment. The term itself, originating from Dutch, directly translates to "plateau wagon," reflecting its fundamental design.