Extendable Lowboy Trailers: A Complete Guide for Contractors & Equipment Movers

Extendable lowboy trailers play a critical role in heavy-haul transport, especially when moving long, tall, or oversized machinery. Whether you’re hauling excavators, dozers, pavers, industrial equipment, or long structural materials, an extendable lowboy offers the flexibility and deck length needed to stay compliant and safe on the road.

This guide explains what extendable lowboy trailers are, how they work, what applications they’re best for, and what to look for when choosing one. We’ll also highlight features commonly found on higher-quality models—like those built by XL Specialized—and show you where to find extendable lowboys for sale in Arizona.

What Is an Extendable Lowboy Trailer?

An extendable lowboy trailer is a heavy-haul detachable gooseneck trailer designed with a main deck that can slide open to add extra length. This allows the trailer to accommodate:

• Extra-long loads

• Oversize equipment

• Machinery that exceeds standard deck lengths

• Materials that require rear overhang support

Most extendable lowboys start at a closed length between 26’–48′ and can stretch significantly longer depending on the manufacturer and model. The adjustable length makes them ideal for specialized transport where load dimensions vary job-to-job.

Why Contractors Choose Extendable Lowboy Trailers

1. Haul Longer or Oversized Equipment Safely

Many machines simply can’t fit on a standard lowboy deck. Extendable trailers give you the space needed for:

• Large excavators

• Dozers

• Forestry equipment

• Industrial machinery

• Wind/utility components

• Long beams or tanks

Being able to extend the deck means fewer overhang issues and easier compliance with load-length regulations.

2. Versatility for Multiple Types of Loads

Extendable lowboys aren’t just for long equipment—they’re also used for:

• Tall machines requiring low deck height

• Multi-component industrial loads

• Rail-bound equipment

• Pipeline construction machinery

• Large fabrication pieces

The combination of low deck height, long deck length, and high payload capacity makes these trailers some of the most versatile tools in the heavy-haul industry.

3. Improved Loading & Securement Options

Extendable lowboy trailers typically include:

• Multiple D-rings & chain drops

• Outriggers for wide machinery

• Apitong or hardwood floors

• Hydraulic detachable gooseneck for ground-level loading

Features like these are essential when loading irregularly shaped equipment or transporting machinery with large track widths.

Key Features to Look for in an Extendable Lowboy

When evaluating extendable lowboy trailers, consider the following critical features:

✔ Hydraulic Detachable Gooseneck (HDG)

The HDG design allows fast, ground-level loading—ideal for heavy tracked machines. Check for:

• Lift height range

• Fifth-wheel compatibility

• Operation via wet kit or pony motor

✔ Extension Capability

Look at:

• Closed deck length

• Maximum extended length

• Number of extension stops

• Ease of locking/unlocking the beam

✔ Suspension & Axles

Air-ride is preferred for better ride quality and load protection. Make sure the trailer includes:

• Heavy-duty axles

• Proper axle spacing

• ABS braking

• Quality suspension components

✔ Deck Construction

Stronger frame materials and hardwood decking increase durability.

Common premium features include:

• T-1 flange / high-tensile web

• Apitong deck

• Beam design built for 40+ ton loads

• Outriggers for wide track equipment

✔ Securement & Practical Features

Look for:

• Ample D-rings and chain drops

• Tie-down points along both sides

• LED lighting

• Steel or aluminum wheels

• Ample toolboxes or chain storage

These features make daily use far easier for equipment operators and truck drivers.

Common Applications for Extendable Lowboy Trailers

Extendable lowboys are essential equipment in industries such as:

• Heavy Construction

Hauling dozers, graders, excavators, and other large earthmoving equipment.

• Industrial Transport

Moving oversized machinery to manufacturing plants or job sites.

• Infrastructure & Utility Work

Transporting long utility components, bridge materials, and structural beams.

• Oil & Gas / Energy Projects

Carrying compressors, drilling equipment, and tall equipment that requires low deck height.

• Agriculture & Forestry

Hauling log loaders, shredders, harvesters, and other oversized track machines.

If you ever haul equipment longer than 26’–40′, an extendable lowboy is usually the safest and most efficient solution.

Is an Extendable Lowboy Right for Your Fleet?

Consider an extendable lowboy trailer if:

• Your loads frequently exceed standard deck lengths

• You work with machinery that varies in size

• You regularly haul tall or heavy tracked equipment

• You need more flexibility than a fixed-length lowboy can offer

• You need safer, more balanced distribution for long loads

Extendable lowboys make a fleet far more capable, especially for contractors and equipment haulers who need adaptable transport solutions.

A Look at Modern Extendable Lowboy Designs

Today’s extendable lowboys—especially premium models—include advanced engineering such as:

• High-tensile steel construction

• Hydraulic neck adjustments

• Low deck heights (18″–22″) for tall machines

• Beam extension every 24″

• Flip neck sections for added length

• Air-ride suspension systems

• Optional aluminum wheels to reduce weight

Manufacturers like XL Specialized, Alpha HD,  and Landoll continue to lead the industry in heavy-haul innovation, offering trailers built for long-term durability and maximum versatility.

Where to Buy Extendable Lowboy Trailers in Arizona

Midco Sales in Chandler, AZ is a leading dealer for lowboy trailers and heavy-haul equipment, offering:

• New and used extendable lowboys

• Hydraulic detachable goosenecks

• XL Specialized trailers

• Landoll traveling axles and lowboys

• Trail-Eze double-drops and step decks

• Financing options

• Nationwide delivery

Whether you need a versatile extendable lowboy or a specialized heavy-haul solution, Midco Sales has inventory ready to haul.

Contact Midco Sales for Pricing & Delivery Options

Midco Sales has helped contractors, equipment haulers, and fleet managers across the U.S. choose the right trailer for their operations.

Call: 480-999-0607
Location: Chandler, Arizona

Our team can provide quotes, financing options, trade evaluations, and nationwide delivery for extendable lowboy trailers.