The step deck trailer (also called a drop deck trailer) bridges the gap between a standard flatbed and a lowboy. Its two-level design — a shorter upper deck and a longer, lower main deck — provides additional height clearance for loads that are too tall for a standard flatbed but don’t require the ultra-low profile of a lowboy or RGN. Freedom Heavy Haul operates step deck trailers nationwide for machinery, equipment, and specialized freight of all kinds.
Step deck trailers feature a two-level deck design that provides extra height clearance over the rear axles:
The upper deck is typically used for lighter, shorter cargo (pallets, crated machinery, pipe sections), while the lower main deck handles taller or heavier freight that benefits from the reduced height.
Step deck trailers are ideal for freight that’s too tall for a standard flatbed but doesn’t need the extreme low profile of a lowboy:
A step deck is the right choice when:
Choose a lowboy or RGN when load weight exceeds 48,000 lbs or when total height on a step deck would still exceed legal limits. Choose a standard flatbed when load height is well within 13’6″ — flatbeds are generally less expensive and more widely available.
Step deck loads may or may not require permits depending on load dimensions and weight. Many step deck moves fall within legal limits and require no permits at all — a key advantage over lowboy transport. Permits are needed when:
Freedom Heavy Haul evaluates permit requirements for every step deck move. When permits are needed, our in-house team handles all applications across every state on the route.
Step deck transport is generally less expensive than lowboy or RGN service because the trailer itself is simpler and more widely available. Cost factors include:
Typical ranges: $600–$2,000 for regional moves; $1,500–$5,000+ for long-haul moves requiring permits. Call (866) 305-6018 for a free quote.
Ready to move your load? Call Freedom Heavy Haul at (866) 305-6018 for a free quote, or submit your load details online. We serve all 48 contiguous states with in-house permit handling, route surveys, and 24/7 dispatch. Tell us your load dimensions, weight, origin, and destination — we’ll respond quickly with the right trailer recommendation and a competitive rate.
A step deck trailer (also called a drop deck trailer) is a flatbed trailer with two deck levels — a shorter upper deck and a longer, lower main deck. The ‘step’ down between the two levels allows taller cargo to be transported on the lower deck while staying within legal height limits. The lower deck sits approximately 34-36 inches off the ground, compared to 48-60 inches on a standard flatbed.
Most step deck trailers have a maximum payload capacity of 42,000–48,000 lbs. The upper deck is typically rated for lighter loads (10,000–15,000 lbs), while the lower main deck handles the heavier freight up to the trailer’s full capacity. For loads exceeding 48,000 lbs, a lowboy or multi-axle platform is required.
A standard flatbed has a single, flat deck at 48-60 inches off the ground with a maximum legal load height of 13’6″. A step deck has an upper deck at the same height but drops to a lower deck (34-36 inches) for the main cargo area, allowing loads up to 10’0″-10’6″ in height. Step decks are used when cargo is too tall for a flatbed but doesn’t need the extreme low profile of a lowboy.
Yes — step deck trailers are one of the most common choices for forklift transport. Most forklifts (especially counterbalance forklifts with mast heights of 6-12 feet) fit comfortably on a step deck’s lower deck. Rear loading ramps on most step decks allow forklifts to drive directly onto the trailer. Heavier forklifts (50,000+ lbs) may require a lowboy.
Call Freedom Heavy Haul at (866) 305-6018 or use our online quote request. Tell us your freight dimensions (height, width, length), weight, origin, and destination. We’ll confirm the right trailer type and provide a competitive rate quickly.