A flatbed trailer with a lower deck section to accommodate taller loads.
Detailed Definition
A step deck trailer, also called a drop deck, has a short upper deck over the tractor's fifth wheel and a longer main deck set lower behind it. The lower deck lets carriers haul taller cargo, such as machinery, tall crates or large equipment, while staying within legal height limits without needing a lowboy. Like a flatbed, it has no sides or roof, so it is usually loaded from the side or rear, often by forklift or crane, and cargo is secured with straps, chains or other tiedowns.
Step deck vs flatbed vs lowboy
A standard flatbed has one flat deck at a single height. A step deck lowers most of the deck to gain height for taller freight. A lowboy drops the deck lower still, between the axles, for very tall or heavy equipment such as construction machinery. Each step down usually means a more specialized trailer, so choose the least specialized one that fits the load's height and weight.
Palletized freight on a step deck
Open trailers expose freight to rain, sun and road spray, so palletized loads often need tarps, shrink hoods or other protection. Straps press down on the top edges of loads, so edge protectors help keep cartons from being crushed. Because there is no dock-height floor, loading usually happens at ground level with a forklift working from the side, which suits sites without docks.
Booking a step deck load
- Give exact length, width, height and weight for each piece.
- State whether loading is by forklift, crane or ramp.
- Say whether tarps or extra securement are needed.
- Ask whether permits are required if the load is over-dimension.
Cargo securement on trucks is governed by federal rules in 49 CFR Part 393, Subpart I.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
When would I book a step deck instead of a dry van?
When the freight is too tall, too wide, or too awkward to load through the rear doors of an enclosed trailer, or when the pickup or delivery site has no loading dock. Step decks are common for machinery, tall crates, steel and building materials. If your freight is standard palletized goods that fit inside a dry van and need weather protection, an enclosed van is usually simpler.
Do I need to tarp freight on a step deck?
It depends on the product and the customer. Many palletized goods, such as paper, packaged food or electronics, can be damaged by rain, sun or road grime and should be tarped or otherwise covered. Some materials, such as steel beams or concrete products, may travel uncovered. Tell the carrier in advance, because tarping takes time and equipment and is often priced as an extra service.