Expert Step-Deck & Flatbed Trucking Services

A step deck, also called a drop deck trailer, is an open-deck trailer with an upper deck and a lower rear deck. The lower deck allows taller freight to move legally without exceeding standard height limits as quickly as it would on a traditional flatbed. Step decks are commonly used for equipment, machinery, construction materials, and other freight requiring easier loading or additional height clearance.

A standard step deck commonly hauls up to about 48,000 pounds, though exact capacity depends on the trailer configuration, axle setup, tractor, freight dimensions, and legal route limits. Oversize or overweight freight may require specialized equipment, permits, escorts, or a different heavy-haul configuration. Kodiak Freight reviews shipment details before matching equipment to the load.

Flatbed trailers are best for freight that can fit within standard height limits and can be loaded from the side, top, or rear. Step-deck trailers are better for taller cargo because the lower deck provides additional vertical clearance. Both are open-deck solutions, but step decks are often preferred for machinery, equipment, and dimensional freight that may be too tall for a flatbed.

Common loads include construction equipment, agricultural machinery, manufacturing equipment, mining components, railroad materials, tanks, generators, steel, and other large industrial freight. Step-deck and flatbed trucking are especially useful when freight cannot be enclosed in a dry van or requires crane, forklift, ramp, or side-loading access at pickup or delivery.

Permits are required when a load exceeds legal size or weight limits for the states and routes involved. Oversize and overweight freight may also require pilot cars, route surveys, curfew planning, or special bridge and road restrictions. Kodiak Freight supports permit and escort coordination to help shipments move legally, safely, and efficiently.

Pricing is based on freight dimensions, weight, equipment type, origin, destination, route complexity, permits, escorts, loading requirements, and delivery schedule. Heavy or dimensional freight often requires more planning than standard truckload freight. Providing accurate measurements, photos, commodity details, and pickup and delivery conditions helps create a more precise quote.

Securement depends on the freight type, weight distribution, dimensions, and trailer configuration. Open-deck freight may be secured with chains, binders, straps, edge protection, blocking, bracing, and tarps when needed. Kodiak Freight emphasizes detail-oriented planning so equipment and cargo are matched with appropriate securement methods before transport begins.

Shippers should provide the commodity description, length, width, height, weight, pickup and delivery addresses, loading and unloading methods, requested dates, and any photos or drawings available. For machinery or oversized freight, center of gravity, tie-down points, and special handling instructions are also helpful for equipment selection and route planning.