Step Deck Trucking Services
Move taller freight that exceeds standard flatbed height limits. Landstar Agent Don Ellis connects shippers with experienced step deck carriers across all 50 states — 24/7.
When Your Freight Is Too Tall for a Standard Flatbed
Step deck trailers — also called drop deck trailers — feature two deck levels that allow taller cargo to be transported legally without special height permits in most cases. If your freight stands between 8.5 and 10 feet tall, a step deck is often the most efficient and cost-effective solution. Don Ellis and the Landstar network have the step deck capacity to move your freight safely and on time.
Step Deck Trailer Specifications
Upper Deck
11 ft
Max Height
Up to 8.5 ft cargo height
Standard flatbed clearance — same as a 48 ft flatbed
Lower Deck
37–40 ft
Max Height
Up to 10 ft cargo height
The key advantage — 18 inches lower than a standard flatbed
Overall Trailer
48–53 ft total
Max Capacity
Up to 48,000 lbs
Max Width
Up to 8.5 ft wide
What We Haul on Step Decks
Construction Equipment
Excavators, bulldozers, skid steers, and other tall machinery that exceeds standard flatbed clearance.
Agricultural Equipment
Combines, tractors, sprayers, and large farm implements that need the lower deck height.
Industrial Machinery
Generators, compressors, CNC machines, and manufacturing equipment up to 10 feet tall.
Vehicles & Trucks
Large commercial vehicles, buses, and specialty trucks that require the lower deck clearance.
Prefab & Modular Components
Prefabricated building sections, modular units, and large structural components.
Oversized Freight
Any cargo that benefits from the lower loading height and two-level deck configuration.
Why Use a Step Deck?
Avoid Height Permits
Freight up to 10 feet tall can often move without an overheight permit on a step deck — saving time and money.
Easier Loading & Unloading
The lower deck sits closer to the ground, making it easier to load and unload heavy equipment with ramps or forklifts.
Versatile Configuration
The two-level deck can accommodate freight of varying heights on a single load, maximizing efficiency.
Cost-Effective Alternative
Step decks are often more affordable than lowboys for freight in the 8.5–10 ft height range.
Also need standard flatbed or enclosed freight?
Need a Step Deck Quote?
Call Don Ellis directly or submit a quote request. He'll find the right step deck carrier for your freight — fast.