Step Deck Transport for Loads That Need More Clearance
Step deck trailers provide additional height capacity for equipment and freight that may not fit comfortably on a standard flatbed.
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What Is a Step Deck Trailer?
A step deck (or drop deck) is an open trailer with two levels: a short upper deck over the tractor and a long main deck that sits about 3′6″ off the ground — a foot lower than a flatbed. That foot of extra clearance lets cargo up to roughly 10′ tall travel without over-height permits.
Loads That Ride Step Decks
- Backhoes and compact machines
- Mini excavators and skid steers
- Forklifts and telehandlers
- Tractors and ag implements
- Tall crated freight
How It Works
Tell Us About the Machine
Make, model, weight and dimensions. If you have a spec sheet or photos, even better.
We Plan Trailer & Permits
Our team matches the trailer — RGN, lowboy, step deck or flatbed — and coordinates any oversize permits the route requires.
Loading & Transport
The carrier loads, secures and hauls the equipment. Drive-on machines use ramps; inoperable units are winched or lifted.
Jobsite Delivery
The equipment is delivered to the yard, dealer or jobsite, offloaded and confirmed complete.
The Middle Ground of Open-Deck Hauling
Step decks carry what flatbeds can’t clear and lowboys would be overkill for: backhoes, mini excavators, skid steers stacked with attachments, forklifts, compact tractors. Ramps make drive-on loading routine. It is the workhorse assignment for mid-size equipment — plentiful, economical, fast to book.
Cost Factors
Heavy equipment pricing is driven by the machine and the route. These are the factors our dispatch team checks before quoting:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Weight | Trailer requirement and axle configuration |
| Width & height | Oversize permit requirements |
| Distance | Line-haul cost |
| Loading capability | Whether ramps, a winch or a crane are needed |
| Route restrictions | Bridges, clearances and escort requirements |
How Long Does It Take?
Most equipment moves are matched with a carrier within a few days of booking — often faster on busy lanes. Transit time depends on distance, route and equipment: regional moves often deliver in 1–3 days, while coast-to-coast shipments average 7–10 days. Your logistics specialist confirms a realistic pickup window when you book and keeps you updated through delivery.
Insurance & Safety
Every carrier in the Dobie network is vetted for active operating authority and insurance before a load is assigned. Your equipment is covered by the carrier's cargo insurance from pickup to delivery, and our dispatch team verifies the certificate of insurance before every dispatch — not once a year.
Where We Coordinate It
Dobie coordinates heavy equipment transport across all 50 states, with deep operating experience in Texas, the South Texas border region and cross-border routes into Mexico. Wherever the pickup and the delivery are, one team manages the entire move.
Shipments Like Yours
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can cargo be on a step deck?
Roughly 10′ on the main deck stays under 13′6″ loaded in most states. Taller cargo moves to a lowboy or gets over-height permitting.
Step deck vs flatbed — how do I choose?
By total loaded height: cargo under ~8′6″ rides a flatbed; 8′6″–10′ needs the step deck’s lower main deck. We do the math from your specs.
Can machines drive onto a step deck?
Yes, with ramps — standard for skid steers, backhoes and compact equipment. The carrier brings ramps when the load plan calls for them.
Is step deck more expensive than flatbed?
Marginally, but far less than heavy-haul trailers. When height demands it, the step deck is the economical answer.
Last reviewed: August 2026 · Reviewed by the Dobie Transport logistics team
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