Abstract: A large diameter reel having a large diameter hollow drum with a flange at each end about which a flexible elongate member, such as coil tubing, electrical conductor cable, or the like, may be wound, the reel having no shaft, but instead, having a large central opening extending therethrough, and having a gear located in the opening or on at least one or both of the reel's flanges. A carrier, such as a skid, trailer or semi-trailer, is provided with rollers for supporting the reel upon edge and with a driving gear meshable with the reel gear for rotating the reel. The trailer or semi-trailer may be provided with a hole in the bed thereof to accommodate the reel in an inset position to permit such vehicles with a reel thereon to freely pass beneath highway overpasses, and other overhangs. Methods of supporting such reels on such carriers are also provided.