Flatbed vs Step Deck
Choosing the right open deck trailer based on your cargo height and loading requirements
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Flatbed | Step Deck |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Height | 60 inches (uniform) | 36-42" lower / 60" upper |
| Max Legal Cargo Height | about 8'6" | about 10 feet |
| Side Loading | Easy from both sides | Difficult on lower deck |
| Drive-On Loading | Requires ramps | With ramps, where the trailer has them |
| Availability | Most common, widely available | Less common, book ahead |
| Cost | Standard open deck rate | Slight premium (5-15%) |
Flatbed trailers have a single flat deck with no sides, roof, or height variations. They offer maximum flexibility for loading from sides, top, or rear.
Pros
- Easy side loading with forklift
- Full deck accessible at same height
- Maximum deck space
- Simple load planning
- Most common open deck trailer
Cons
- Limited to about 8'6" of cargo height (legal)
- Higher deck = less clearance
- Overheight requires permits
- Not ideal for tall machinery
- Height restrictions on routes
Specifications
- Deck Height:
- 60 inches (5 feet)
- Legal Cargo Height:
- about 8'6"
- Length:
- 48-53 feet
- Width:
- 8'6" (102 inches)
- Capacity:
- 46,000-48,000 lb
Step deck trailers have a raised front section and lowered main deck. The dropped section provides extra height clearance for taller cargo without permits.
Pros
- About 10' of cargo height (no height permit)
- Ideal for tall equipment
- Avoid overheight permit costs
- Drive-on loading for some equipment
- Lower center of gravity
Cons
- Harder to side-load lower deck
- Split deck complicates planning
- Upper deck limited space
- 5-15% higher rates than flatbed
- Less availability than flatbeds
Specifications
- Lower Deck Height:
- 36-42 inches
- Upper Deck Height:
- 60 inches
- Legal Cargo Height:
- about 10 feet
- Lower Deck Length:
- 37-42 feet
- Capacity:
- 44,000-47,000 lb
When to Choose Each Option
- Cargo under about 8'6" tall
- Need side forklift loading
- Shipping lumber, steel, building materials
- Multiple stops with partial unloading
- Cost sensitivity
- Need maximum availability
- Cargo about 8'6" to 10' tall
- Shipping tractors, forklifts, machinery
- Want to avoid overheight permits
- Equipment can load from rear/ramps
- Large industrial equipment
- Construction equipment transport
Cost Comparison
Step deck typically costs 5-15% more than flatbed, but saves permit costs for overheight loads.
If your cargo exceeds about 8'6" on a flatbed, you'd need overheight permits ($50-500+ per state) plus potential escort vehicles ($400-800/day). Step deck avoids these costs for cargo up to about 10 feet. For cargo under about 8'6", flatbed is usually more economical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not Sure Which is Right for You?
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