Buy The Right Flatbed Semi Trailers
Trailers come in 40, 42, 45, 38 and 53 foot options. Those that are 45 feet long or less are mostly used for specialized jobs, and are the shortest possible you should get for multi-purpose use. Most shippers require at least a 48 foot trailer, so these are the most frequently available as both new and used trailers. The 53 foot trailer has only been around in the past as specialized trailers until the past few years, when some of the largest companies have been moving more toward an entire 53 foot fleet. While they are convenient and open up a truck to multiple uses, there will not be very many available used for a few more years.
The majority of companies and owner-operators need a spread axle trailer that allows up to 20,000 pounds of weight per axle for the ability to safely and legally axle up to 40,000 pounds. A closed tandem trailer only allows 34,000 total pounds axle weight , limiting loading capabilities.
Coil packages are a recent addition to flatbed trailers. As of now they are not required, but can be very convenient to have on a flatbed. A traditional coil rack can be used on any flatbed, as long as the trailer is rated to haul a heavy load in a short space. Coil packages are not necessary unless you will be hauling coils regularly.
With some good research and a working knowledge of what you plan to haul in the future, finding a good new or used flatbed trailer is not difficult. Just make sure what you purchase is exactly what you need, and make plans to maintain your new purchase regularly to extend the life of the trailer.