How to Ship Steel and Metal Freight: A Complete Guide

Steel and metal freight requires more planning than a standard dry van load. Weight, dimensions, load securement, and equipment selection all create problems if not handled correctly from the start.

Equipment Selection by Steel Type

• Steel coils — Flatbed with coil racks and cradle blocking. Coils are among the most challenging loads due to weight concentration.
• Steel beams and structural steel — Standard flatbed or step deck depending on length and height requirements.
• Steel plate — Flatbed. Heavy plate requires weight distribution planning to stay within axle limits.
• Pipe and tube — Flatbed with headache rack and chocking. Pipe can roll, making securement critical.
• Sheet metal bundles — Dry van or flatbed depending on packaging and moisture sensitivity.

Weight and Axle Limits

Federal bridge law limits gross vehicle weight to 80,000 lbs on interstate highways. Steel loads frequently approach this limit — requiring overweight permits or multiple trucks. Your broker must verify legal weight compliance before dispatch.

Load Securement Requirements

FMCSA 49 CFR Part 393 requires specific tie-down configurations for metal products. Steel coils require a minimum of four tie-downs plus blocking. Beams require tie-downs every 10 feet. Violations at weigh stations result in load rejection, fines, and out-of-service orders.

How IZY Logistics Handles Steel

IZY Logistics works with flatbed carriers specializing in steel across all major steel-producing regions — Chicago, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Gary, and beyond. We verify carrier equipment, securement certification, and cargo insurance on every steel load.