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) | 38-42" lower / 60" upper |
| Max Legal Cargo Height | 8.5 feet | 10-11 feet |
| Side Loading | Easy from both sides | Difficult on lower deck |
| Drive-On Loading | Requires ramps | Possible with detachable gooseneck |
| 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 8.5' 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:
- 8.5 feet
- Length:
- 48-53 feet
- Width:
- 8.5 feet
- Capacity:
- 48,000 lbs typical
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
- 10-11' cargo height (no permits)
- 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
- Slightly higher rates than flatbed
- Less availability than flatbeds
Specifications
- Lower Deck Height:
- 38-42 inches
- Upper Deck Height:
- 60 inches
- Legal Cargo Height:
- 10-11 feet
- Lower Deck Length:
- 37-41 feet
- Capacity:
- 48,000 lbs typical
When to Choose Each Option
- Cargo height under 8.5 feet
- Need side forklift loading
- Shipping lumber, steel, building materials
- Multiple stops with partial unloading
- Cost sensitivity
- Need maximum availability
- Cargo height 8.5 - 11 feet
- 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 8.5 feet 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 10-11 feet. For cargo under 8.5 feet, flatbed is usually more economical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not Sure Which is Right for You?
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