You can probably guess that RGNs have an extended tongue, a gooseneck, that is used to connect it to the truck pulling it. Unlike a lowboy, on these trailers, it can be detached to make loading and unloading large cargo much easier. But that is just part of the story.

RGNs were first introduced in 1958 to answer the need to move ever taller and heavier cargo over America’s quickly growing interstate system. New height and axle weight restrictions made designing a new type of trailer necessary, and the RGN was just what was needed.

An RGN has a lowered portion or deck. You will generally see two types: single drops and double drops. Single drops have a standard height deck at the front with a lowered deck behind it. Double drop RGNs have a raised deck fore and aft with the well in the middle.

There is a third type of RGN trailer that you will occasionally encounter. These are smaller, non-DOT regulated trailers that haul “Hot Shot Loads.” You will see these trailers pulled by work trucks or even dually pickup trucks. Because of these trailers’ diminutive size, they are often used to move smaller farm tractors, backhoes, and tractor attachments.

Because they are unregulated, like the rigs used by heavy equipment specialists, it is always advisable to give these a wide berth when you see them on the road.