Drop-deck truckload
Step deck freight brokerage for taller open-deck loads
Overview
How step deck freight brokerage works
A step deck, also called a drop deck, is an open-deck trailer with two levels: a short upper deck over the tractor connection and a longer main deck set lower to the ground. That lower deck is the whole point. It lets freight that is too tall for a flatbed travel without exceeding legal height limits in many cases. We arrange step deck shipments with authorized carriers and help you decide whether a step deck is the right trailer before the load is booked.
Equipment
Typical step deck specifications
- Common length
- 48 or 53 ft
- Main deck height
- ≈ 36–42 in
- Legal freight height
- ≈ 10 ft
- Typical freight weight
- ≈ 43,000–48,000 lb
- Loading
- Side, top, ramps
Typical figures for general planning only. Actual dimensions and capacities vary by trailer, and legal height and weight limits vary by state.
Why a lower deck makes a difference
On a standard flatbed, the deck sits about five feet off the ground. On a step deck, the main deck is typically around three and a half feet high. Those extra inches of clearance mean freight up to roughly 10 feet tall can often move without an over-height permit, where the same freight on a flatbed would be over the limit.
Legal height limits differ from state to state, and the exact deck height varies by trailer. We confirm dimensions for your freight and route rather than relying on a general rule.
Loading a step deck
Step decks load like flatbeds: by forklift, crane or loader from the side or top. Many step deck trailers also carry ramps, so equipment with wheels or tracks can be driven onto the lower deck. If you plan to drive the equipment on, tell us when you request a quote so we can look for a trailer equipped with ramps.
Step deck, flatbed or RGN?
If your freight fits within flatbed height limits, a flatbed is usually the simpler choice. If it is too tall for a flatbed but not too tall or heavy for a step deck, the step deck is often the practical middle ground. When freight is taller or heavier still, or needs to be driven onto a very low deck, an RGN is typically the next step up.
Request a quote
What to include in your quote request
- 01Pickup and delivery city and state
- 02Freight dimensions (L × W × H)
- 03Approximate weight
- 04Loading method: forklift, crane or drive-on
- 05Whether ramps are needed
- 06Ready date
FAQ
Step Deck Freight questions
What is the difference between a step deck and a flatbed?
How tall can freight be on a step deck?
Is a step deck the same as a drop deck?
Can equipment be driven onto a step deck?
Keep exploring
Related services and guides
Request a step deck quote
Tell us about the shipment and we’ll follow up to confirm the details and the equipment.
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