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Step Deck Trucking Services

Lower deck trailers for taller cargo - ship machinery and equipment without overheight permits

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Step deck trailer with raised front section and lowered main deck

What is Step Deck Trucking?

Step deck trailers (also called drop deck trailers) feature a lowered main deck that provides extra vertical clearance for tall cargo. With 10-11 feet of legal height capacity versus 8.5 feet on standard flatbeds, step decks let you ship tall machinery and equipment without expensive overheight permits or escort vehicles.

Key Benefits

  • Lower deck height for taller cargo (10+ feet clearance)
  • No permits needed for many loads that would be overheight on flatbed
  • Flexible loading options - top, sides, and rear
  • Professional securement for heavy machinery
  • Nationwide coverage with experienced drivers

Step Deck vs Flatbed: Quick Comparison

Understanding when to choose step deck over standard flatbed

Step Deck Trailer
Deck Height:38-42 inches (lower deck)
Cargo Height:Up to 10-11 feet legal
Length:48-53 feet total
Max Weight:~48,000 lbs
Best For:Tall machinery, tractors, equipment
Standard Flatbed
Deck Height:60 inches (5 feet)
Cargo Height:Up to 8.5 feet legal
Length:48-53 feet
Max Weight:~48,000 lbs
Best For:Building materials, lumber, steel

Need help deciding which is right for your shipment?

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Common Freight Types

Ideal cargo types for step deck transportation

Heavy Machinery
Tractors, forklifts, excavators, and construction equipment too tall for flatbeds.
Industrial Equipment
Manufacturing machinery, presses, generators, and large industrial components.
Building Materials
Tall prefab structures, HVAC units, and oversized building components.
Vehicles & Equipment
Agricultural equipment, utility vehicles, and specialty machinery.

Industries We Serve

Step deck solutions for diverse industry needs

Construction
  • Heavy equipment rentals
  • General contractors
  • Excavation companies
  • Road construction
Agriculture
  • Farm equipment dealers
  • Tractor manufacturers
  • Agricultural suppliers
  • Implement dealers
Manufacturing
  • Industrial machinery
  • Factory equipment
  • Production lines
  • Processing equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about step deck shipping

A step deck (also called a drop deck) trailer has two deck levels - a raised front section that connects to the truck, and a lower main deck. This design provides approximately 10-11 feet of vertical clearance compared to 8.5 feet on a standard flatbed, making it ideal for taller cargo that would otherwise require overheight permits.

Related Services

Flatbed Trucking

Standard open deck for cargo under 8.5 feet tall

Learn More
Specialized & Heavy Haul

Lowboy, RGN, and oversize load transport

Learn More
Dry Van

Enclosed trailers for weather-sensitive cargo

Learn More

Ready to Ship with Step Deck?

Get a quote for your tall machinery, equipment, or oversized cargo.

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Step Deck Trucking Services | Freight Sidekick