Selecting the right type of trailer is crucial to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of goods. Among the various trailer options available, the step deck trailer, also known as a drop deck trailer, stands out for shippers as a versatile and practical choice for accommodating oversized and specialized cargo. In this article, we will delve into the characteristics, advantages, and key differences between step deck trailers and double drop trailers, equipping shippers with valuable knowledge for their logistics operations.
A step deck trailer, or a drop deck trailer, is a type of flatbed trailer designed with a lowered deck at the front and/or rear end. The unique design of a step deck trailer allows for hauling tall or oversized cargo that may not fit within the height restrictions of a standard flatbed trailer. By utilizing a lower deck, step deck trailers create additional vertical clearance, enabling the transportation of freight that exceeds the maximum height limit.
While step deck and double drop trailers share similarities in their lowered deck structure, they have distinct differences that cater to specific shipping requirements:
In step deck trailers, the lowered deck is located at the front and/or rear end of the trailer, while the main deck remains flat. On the other hand, double drop trailers have two lowered decks—one at the front and another at the rear—with a flat main deck in between. This design provides double drop trailers with an additional step-down section, resulting in a longer well for hauling extremely tall or oversized cargo.
Step deck trailers generally have a greater height capacity than standard flatbed carriers due to their lowered deck. However, for cargo that exceeds the vertical clearance of a step deck trailer, a double drop trailer offers even more space with its two step-down sections. This increased height capacity makes double drop trailers ideal for transporting exceptionally tall or bulky loads.
Step deck trailers offer relative ease of loading and unloading compared to double drop trailers. With a single step-down section, step deck trailers enable direct access to the cargo from the sides and above. In contrast, double drop trailers require additional equipment, such as ramps, to load or unload cargo from the well.
Step deck flatbed trailers, or drop deck trailers, provide an efficient and versatile solution for shipping various types of oversized and specialized cargo. Their lowered deck design offers enhanced height capacity, flexibility, and improved safety during transportation. While double drop trailers offer an extended well for extremely tall freight, step deck trailers excel in their simplicity of loading and unloading processes. Are you a shipper in need of step deck or double drop trailers to fulfill your transportation requirements? I highly recommend working with TLI (Translogistics), a shippers preferred logistics management partner. TLI has been in the industry for over 30 years.
With our extensive experience and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, we are your go-to solution for sourcing the capacity you need.
When it comes to sourcing step deck or double drop trailers, trust TLI's expertise and reliability. With our extensive industry experience, broad network,
company culture, and commitment to exceptional customer service, we are your ideal partner for securing the step deck capacity you need. Save time, reduce hassle, and ensure efficient transportation of your cargo by reaching out to TLI today.
For the latest insights, tips and commentary surrounding the logistics industry, look no further. Shippers will find thoughts from the award-winning team at Translogistics covering everything related to your transportation processes and plans. If you have a question we are readily available at marketing@tli.email
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All Rights Reserved | TLI