A step deck trailer is used to transport cargo that is taller than a flatbed. These types of hauls can’t fit in a dry van truck and require specialized permits.
Step deck trailers are versatile, allowing you to carry most loads that a flatbed can handle as well as oversize loads that can’t go on a standard flatbed.
Safety
When it comes to shipping your freight, there are certain dimensions and weights that must be considered. These dimensions and weights must be verified before you start transporting your load to ensure that it meets DOT regulations.
For example, if you are carrying lumber on a step deck trailer, make sure that the lumber is securely attached to the trailer and the sides are firmly locked down. This will prevent the wood from slipping off of the trailer and onto the road.
Another important safety consideration is ensuring that everyone involved with loading your load knows exactly what they are doing. Loading equipment on a step deck trailer can be tricky, so it is vital that everyone involved is trained properly. This will help avoid accidents and other problems that could arise if someone is not properly trained.
Additionally, it is critical that all parties involved in loading your cargo know where to place the equipment on the trailer and how to secure it. This will avoid any potential damage to your trailer or other vehicles that might be nearby.
In addition, you should also be aware of the maximum height your truck can carry. This is important to ensure that your cargo does not exceed bridge clearance heights, which can cause major problems for both the driver and the passengers aboard.
If your freight is too tall to fit on a flatbed trailer, you may want to consider a step deck trailer instead. This is because a step deck trailer has a lower deck that allows you to haul taller freight without having to worry about legal limits.
This lower deck can increase your cargo height capacity up to 41 inches more than a traditional flatbed trailer, which will allow you to meet your state’s legal requirements and keep everyone safe. This extra cargo height capacity can also make your freight more profitable and easy to handle.
Finally, if you are unsure whether or not your freight can fit on a step deck trailer, the best thing to do is to call a trucking company and discuss it with them. They can give you a recommendation and explain which type of trailer would be most suitable for your needs.
Stability
If you’re transporting heavy machinery or equipment that needs to be positioned in a certain way, you may need a trailer with more stability than a flatbed. The best of step deck trailer is a great option to help ensure your equipment arrives at its destination safely and on time.
One of the key features of a best of step deck trailer is its two hauling platforms. These include a shorter upper deck that sits 59 inches above the ground to allow for connecting to a semi-tractor and a lower deck that drops anywhere from 38 to 42 inches off the ground. This allows for hauling loads that are up to 10 feet tall without requiring an oversize permit in most states.
The lower deck is also important for the safety of your cargo. It gives you a lower center of gravity for your load, which can help reduce the chances of damage to your truck or the trailer itself.
A step-deck trailer also has a rear loading ramp system that lets you load your equipment from the back of the trailer. This system consists of hanging brackets for loading ramps and load levelers, as well as ramp attaching brackets that are welded to the trailer’s deck.
In addition, these kits are designed to work with hot shot trailers, which are used by transporting pipes and other large materials from a single point. They’re a cost-effective option for companies that use these trailers frequently and want the extra convenience of easy loading.
When it comes to delivering your cargo, you need to know that you can count on your transportation provider to provide you with the most reliable and trustworthy service possible. That’s why you should consider working with a company that provides a wide selection of quality equipment options. For example, Kingpin Trailers has a huge selection of high-quality step-deck trailers available for you to choose from. Contact us today to learn more about these trailers and how they can help your business thrive. We’re proud to be one of the leading suppliers of freight shipping solutions in Western Canada!
Durability
A drop deck trailer, also known as a step deck trailer, is an alternative to flatbeds for hauling heavy cargo. These are favored by industries requiring the transportation of steel equipment, such as oil and gas fields and construction work.
The best of these trailers are made from strong, durable materials like steel to withstand the weight and force of heavy loads. They come in a variety of sizes and lengths, so you can transport the cargo you need with ease.
Some of these trailers have a removable gooseneck that allows you to adjust your load height without having to move the entire trailer. This makes it easy to get equipment into place and can be a great option for securing smaller loads.
You can also find beavertail models of these trailers, which have fixed ramps that flip down to load equipment and fold up on top of the beavertail when you’re not using them. This eliminates the need for storage underneath the trailer and can save you money in the long run.
Another feature of these types of trailers is that they have a lower rear deck height than flatbeds. This can make it easier to load small equipment such as skid steers and loaders, as well as other cargo.
However, this can be a disadvantage when you’re hauling loads that are taller than 10 feet. It’s important to check the specifications of your trailer and your truck before you load any cargo, as this can impact how much space it takes up on the trailer.
The size, height, and weight of your load is also important. Ensure that you know how much space your cargo will take up on the trailer, as this is vital to ensuring safe operation and compliance with DOT regulations.
When you’re ready to purchase a step deck trailer, it’s a good idea to check the vehicle manufacturer for the warranty and to ensure that the trailer is in working condition. Taking care of your trailer will help you avoid any unnecessary costs and problems down the road.
Ease of Loading
If you need to transport cargo that cannot fit on dry van trucks, a step deck trailer can be an excellent option. These trailers don’t have doors or sides, so they provide a safe, open space that can accommodate tall freight without having to exceed the height limitations of flatbeds.
These open-deck trailers can be used to haul a variety of goods, including construction materials, vehicles, and even crated industrial equipment. However, they’re best known for a specific use-case: hauling taller cargo that won’t fit on flatbeds.
In fact, these trailers are commonly referred to as lowboy trailers because they can carry loads that are much taller than what traditional flatbeds can handle. While they can be helpful in moving large loads, the extra space does create some setbacks.
As a result, truckers need to be mindful of the height restrictions that apply to their freight. In addition, oversized freight often gets exposed to the elements. This could lead to damage, especially if it is very fragile.
Because of these setbacks, many truckers prefer to use specialized equipment to transport their cargo. This can include step decks, stretch single-drop trailers and double-drop deck trailers.
The best of these types of trailers feature a lower deck that provides an additional 18 inches of clearance for tall cargo. This makes it easier to comply with height regulations and maintain safe clearance under bridges.
Additionally, these trailers can be equipped with ramps that make loading and unloading freight a breeze. This can help you save money by eliminating the need for cranes and riggers on site to load or unload your cargo.
These trailers also have a greater load-carrying capacity than traditional flatbeds, so they’re ideal for shipping large machinery and other equipment that can’t be easily loaded or unloaded onto flatbeds.
If you’re looking for the best of step deck trailers, be sure to choose a company that offers reliable services and the right equipment for your needs. In addition to offering a wide range of trailers, companies like Cowtown Express offer expert guidance and transportation solutions to ensure that your freight gets from point A to point B in the most efficient and safe way possible. Contact us today to get a free quote!