What is the minimum charge for step deck shipping?

Step deck has a minimum charge of $800 regardless of distance, higher than flatbed's $700 minimum due to the specialized equipment.

How much more does step deck cost than flatbed?

Step deck is about $0.23/mile more than flatbed ($2.35 vs $2.12 base rate). For a 1,000-mile trip, that's roughly $230 more. But you avoid overheight permit costs that could be $50-500+ per state.

When should I use step deck vs flatbed?

Use step deck when your cargo is taller than 8.5 feet but under 10-11 feet. The lower deck provides extra height clearance without needing permits. If cargo is under 8.5 feet, standard flatbed is more economical.

What about RGN trailers for even taller cargo?

RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers offer even lower deck height (18-24 inches) for very tall or heavy equipment. RGN rates start around $3.40/mile with a $1,000 minimum. See our specialized hauling services.

Cost Guide

Step Deck Trucking Rates

Understanding drop deck trailer pricing for tall freight

Quick Answer: Typical Rates

Reference ranges based on current market conditions

Scenario	Low Range	High Range	Notes
Short haul (under 200 miles)	$2.87/mile	$3.30/mile	22-25% short-haul premium applies
Regional (200-500 miles)	$2.63/mile	$3.00/mile	12-18% short-haul premium
Mid-range (500-700 miles)	$2.51/mile	$2.80/mile	7-8% premium
Long haul (700+ miles)	$2.35/mile	$2.80/mile	Base rate, no premium

What Affects Your Cost?

Distance / Short-Haul Premium

High Impact

Same premium structure as flatbed. Under 200 miles adds 22-25%. 200-500 miles adds 12-18%. 500-700 adds 7-8%. Over 700 miles gets base rates around $2.35/mile.

Premium Over Flatbed

High Impact

Step deck runs about $0.23/mile more than standard flatbed ($2.35 vs $2.12) due to specialized equipment. However, you avoid overheight permit costs for tall cargo.

Load Characteristics

Medium Impact

Heavy machinery, tall equipment, and construction equipment are typical. Loads requiring chains, binders, and special securement may have additional equipment fees.

Tarping Requirements

Medium Impact

Same tarp fees as flatbed: $50-150 depending on type. Many step deck loads (machinery, equipment) ship open without tarps.

Equipment Availability

Medium Impact

Step decks are less common than standard flatbeds. Book 3-5 days ahead when possible, especially in busy construction seasons.

Extra Stops

Low Impact

Same fee structure: $175 for first extra stop, $275 for second, $375 for third, $400 each beyond.

Example Pricing Scenarios

Forklift transport

12,000 lbs, 9 ft tall forklift, Texas to Georgia (850 miles)

Estimated Cost:$2,100 - $2,500 (~$2.45-$2.95/mile)

Agricultural equipment

28,000 lbs tractor, Iowa to Kansas (400 miles)

Estimated Cost:$1,200 - $1,450 (~$3.00-$3.60/mile with premium)

Industrial machinery

35,000 lbs press, Ohio to North Carolina (500 miles)

Estimated Cost:$1,400 - $1,700 (~$2.80-$3.40/mile)

Construction equipment, long haul

40,000 lbs excavator, California to Colorado (1,100 miles)

Estimated Cost:$2,700 - $3,200 (~$2.45-$2.90/mile)

Ways to Save Money

Use step deck only when cargo exceeds 8.5 ft height

Standard flatbed is cheaper if your cargo fits

Book ahead - step deck availability is more limited

Provide accurate height measurements upfront

Consider if equipment can self-load (reduces loading time)

Combine shipments when geography allows

Ship during off-peak construction seasons (winter) for better rates

Ensure equipment is ready and accessible for loading

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

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