
If you’re shipping equipment that doesn’t fit in a standard flatbed trailer, a step deck trailer is the perfect solution. This type of truck is designed to transport cargo that exceeds the legal height limit.
This means you can avoid obtaining permits and escorts, while maintaining compliance. In addition, they’re easier to load and unload.
1. Versatility
If your load doesn’t fit in the space of a standard flatbed trailer, a step deck trailer is a perfect solution. These trailers are specially designed to transport cargo that is too tall to fit in a standard flatbed, and they can haul heavier loads than other types of trailers.
These trailers are available in a variety of sizes, models and configurations to meet your transportation needs. They can be used to haul cargo of all shapes and sizes, including construction materials, crated equipment, and other products.
They also offer a deployable ramp for loading/unloading freight that can be useful for those who don’t have cranes or riggers on-site to load and unload their cargo. This makes them an ideal choice for many different types of freight, and they can be a great option for those who need to move large quantities of heavy cargo at a time.
The versatility of a step deck trailer is one of the reasons why they are so popular with trucking companies. They can be used to haul cargo of virtually any shape and size, from pipes to crated equipment and even turbines.
A step deck trailer’s lowered deck allows it to haul loads that are too tall for flatbeds, which can save you money and reduce your shipping costs. These trailers also come with a lower weight limit than other types of flatbed trailers.
These trailers are also available in a range of model configurations, including single or double drop and detachable trailers. The length, width and height of a step deck trailer are all important considerations when selecting the right one for your needs.
Besides being versatile, step deck trailers are also more affordable than other types of flatbed trailers. These types of trailers can be loaded and unloaded with a variety of tools, making them an excellent choice for small businesses.
They can be loaded from the back, sides or by using a ramp. However, it’s important to note that not all ramps are the same and some may not be able to support the weight of your load.
2. Easier to Load and Unload
One of the reasons step deck trailers are so popular is that they make shipping freight easier. Whether you’re transporting equipment, machinery or even freight with special dimensions, step deck trailers can be used to ensure your load is shipped in a safe and efficient manner.
They are also a good choice if you’re looking to haul freight that exceeds the legal height limit of a flatbed trailer, which is typically around 10 feet 2 inches high. This prevents you from needing permits to carry taller cargo, which can be a huge plus for hauling goods and materials that need to be transported over bridges.
Another reason step deck trailers are so versatile is that they can easily be adapted to accommodate any freight size and shape. In fact, these types of trailers can be used to ship everything from small palletized freight to large construction equipment or machinery.
A step deck is also much easier to load and unload than a traditional flatbed trailer. This is due to its lower deck, which allows forklifts to easily reach cargo since it’s closer to the ground. Many of these trailers also have ramp capabilities, making loading and unloading equipment a breeze.
These trailers come in fixed-neck, gooseneck and removable gooseneck (RGN) options, depending on the type of freight and your specific loading/unloading needs. However, it’s important to note that fixed-neck trailers are a bit limited in their loading and unloading possibilities, while RGNs can be loaded on either the front or back of the trailer.
If you’re interested in learning more about step deck trailers, don’t hesitate to contact us at Cowtown Express for a free freight transportation quote. Our experienced team will help you find the right trailer for your shipment.
We offer power only, project freight, oversize and specialized heavy haul trucking services for all of your needs. Let us show you how we can get your load delivered safely and efficiently.
Despite being more specialized than standard flatbed trailers, step deck trailers don’t cost as much as other types of trailers, so you won’t have to worry about losing money on your cargo. This means you can focus on the freight that matters most to you, which is what really drives your business and your profits.
3. Easier to Operate
A step deck trailer, also called a drop deck, is a type of flatbed trailer that has two deck levels, one higher and shorter near the pulling cab, and a lower deck that extends through the rear of the truck. It is an excellent option for transporting a wide variety of equipment and machinery, including construction equipment.
Unlike traditional flatbeds, step deck trailers are not open and do not have sides or a roof, which makes them better suited for shipping tall cargo that exceeds the legal height limit. This allows the equipment to be placed lower and reduces the risk of it tripping or falling.
Another benefit of using a step deck trailer is that it is easier for forklift operators to load and unload the trailer. This is because the platform is lower, which means that forklift operators do not need to lift their forks as high when loading and unloading the trailer. This makes it safer for everyone involved in the process.
When it comes to freight transportation, the size, weight, and height of your load have a significant impact on the cost of delivering your product. This is because freight regulations require that you measure the dimensions and weight of your load before determining the best way to ship it.
This is especially important for tall freight, which can be costly to transport. Typically, freight that exceeds eight feet in height must apply for a permit and may need an escort vehicle.
However, if your load is below that limit and you are working with a step deck trailer, you can avoid the need for permits and escorts. This can save you time, money, and the hassle of applying for a permit.
Whether you need to transport large equipment or have an unusually tall cargo, a step deck trailer is the best choice for your needs. This is because step deck trailers are easier to operate than traditional flatbeds, which make them a great alternative for hauling tall equipment and freight. They are versatile, safe to use, and can handle many different types of cargo.
4. Safety
One of the biggest concerns that consumers and businesses have when it comes to shipping freight is the safety of their cargo. Whether it’s a product, an equipment, or any other kind of material that needs to be transported from point A to point B, safety is always of the utmost importance.
The transportation industry has a long history of making sure that cargo is securely secured on a trailer in order to prevent shifting, tipping, or falling off the vehicle. While this can be challenging, it’s important to remember that the trailer is only one of many factors in determining the safety of the load being transported.
Step deck trailers can be a great way to transport loads that are taller than flatbed trucks can accommodate. However, they require a special permit for loading cargo that exceeds the legal height limit.
If you’re hauling heavy machinery, construction materials or any other large cargo that exceeds the height limit of a flatbed, then you may want to consider using a step deck trailer. These trailers have lower platforms than other types of flatbed trailers, which means that they’re much safer for your cargo and your employees.
In addition to providing a safe load for your freight, the low deck also makes it easier to load and unload your cargo. This is because it doesn’t require forklift operators to lift the forks as high, so they can get their job done quicker and more efficiently.
Similarly, a double drop deck trailer can be a great option for transporting extremely large or heavy loads. These trailers have two lower decks sandwiched together, which can allow for cargo that is up to 41 inches taller than a standard flatbed trailer before you’ll need to apply for a height permit.
When it comes to deciding which type of trailer to use, it’s best to work with your transportation provider to determine which is the most appropriate choice for your freight. They’ll be able to make sure that your cargo is loaded safely and that the trailer is in good working order so it can be properly transported.