Horizon Fast Freight provides step deck flatbed transport services across Canada and the U.S. for freight that exceeds standard height restrictions. Step deck cargo trailers offer additional clearance without requiring special equipment or permits in many cases.
This makes them an efficient choice for tall or pre-assembled loads that still require easy loading access. With dependable service and a highly experienced team, Horizon moves your cargo safely and helps you stay on schedule.
What Is A Step Deck Flatbed Trailer?
If the material being loaded is too tall for the height limits of a standard flatbed, a step deck flatbed trailer (also referred to as a drop deck) is a great solution to allow for more height clearance.
Step deck trailers are one-piece flatbed trailers with an upper and lower deck. The upper deck is found near the front of the trailer, and the lower deck is near the back. The upper deck is always shorter than the lower deck.
The Dimensions & Capabilities of Drop Deck Trailer Transport
Step deck flatbed trailers come in 48- and 53-foot lengths. A 53-foot trailer typically has an 11-foot upper deck and a 42-foot lower deck. The 48-foot version has the same 11-foot upper deck but a shorter 37-foot lower deck.
This equipment’s added deck height allows for extra vertical clearance, making drop deck trailer transport services perfect for oversized freight that exceeds the height restrictions of standard flatbeds.
What Can Be Hauled With A Drop Deck Trailer?
Our step deck trucking services are designed for freight that exceeds the height limits of a standard flatbed but doesn’t require specialized equipment. The lower rear deck offers added clearance and makes it easier to move tall or top-heavy cargo, even over long distances or across borders, without added permits or delays.
Common freight types moved with step deck trucking services include:
- Skid-mounted generators or compressors
- Large tanks or cylindrical containers
- Prefabricated steel or structural components
- Tractors, forklifts, and other mid-size machinery
- Rooftop HVAC units or bulky mechanical systems
Industries That Partner with Step Deck Trucking Companies
Step deck trucking companies are dependable options for organizations in industries that move tall, heavy, or pre-assembled freight. With easier site access and reduced loading restrictions, Horizon Fast Freight’s step deck trucking services support time-sensitive, job-ready freight for clients across Canada and the U.S.
Industries that commonly rely on our step deck trucking services include:
- Construction: Machinery, framing systems, and oversized components
- Agriculture: Harvesting equipment, tractors, and feed systems
- Manufacturing: Crated machines, conveyor systems, and fabricated parts
- Energy & Utilities: Power units, control systems, and substation equipment
- Rental & Equipment Supply: Skid-mounted units, generators, and site tools
Choose Horizon for Step Deck Trucking Services
Horizon Fast Freight delivers reliable step deck trucking services across Canada and the U.S., helping businesses move tall or oversized freight where it needs to go and when. To get started, contact us for a quote or speak with your account manager – we’re here to make step deck transportation straightforward and stress-free!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common things clients want to know before booking step deck trucking services with Horizon Fast Freight.
Do I need special permits to use a step deck trailer?
One of the benefits of step deck trailers is that they can carry taller loads without requiring overheight permits. However, permits may still be needed if your freight exceeds legal length, width, or weight.
What’s the maximum height I can load on a step deck trailer?
The maximum legal load height is typically 10 feet on the lower deck, but this can vary by province or state. We’ll confirm height limits based on your route.
How do I know if my freight is too heavy for a step deck trailer?
Step deck trailers usually have a weight capacity of up to 48,000 pounds. If your load is heavier, we’ll explore other equipment options like double-drop trailers or multi-axle setups.
Can step deck trailers handle freight that needs to be loaded by crane?
Yes, they can. Step decks are commonly used for crane loading since the open-top and side access make it easier to handle tall or irregularly shaped freight.
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