3 Key Differences in Lowboy and Step Deck

• Nov 8- 2017

The trucking industry offers multiple types of services. Two of those include lowboy trucking and step deck trucking. Because there are a few similarities, some people get the two confused, making it hard to choose the right service. However, there are also differences in step deck vs lowboy trucking. Three, in particular, that stand out.

Before going over these three differences, it would help to gain a basic understanding of these two types of trailers.

What is a Lowboy Trailer Service

With a lowboy trailer service or lowboy trucking service, a gooseneck (RGN) detaches thanks to large hydraulic cylinders that raise and lower the trailer. For shoring up the neck to the truck, a smaller cylinder gets used. With that done, a large piece of equipment drives over the front, going onto the trailer’s deck in preparation for transporting cargo. This feature allows for the efficient loading of oversized or heavy machinery without the need for additional equipment, like cranes or ramps. The low clearance of the deck also ensures that taller cargo can be transported while staying within legal height limits for roadways.

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Lowboy Transport: A complete guide

What is a Step Deck Trailer Service

As for step deck trucking companies, also referred to as single drop, drop deck, and open deck, heavy equipment hauling companies and others use these trailers to transport much of the same kind of freight as that of a flatbed. For both options, a trucking company can haul a significant amount of large and heavy cargo. Along with these differences, consider the three mentioned below.

Step deck trailers are often preferred for loads that are taller than what a standard flatbed can legally carry, as they provide additional height clearance. This design also offers greater versatility in handling diverse types of freight while adhering to height regulations.

1. Step Deck Vs Lowboy Trailer Decks –

The design of a lowboy trailer includes a single deck, whereas a step deck has two: a main and a front. That means instead of one continuous surface as seen with a flatbed, this trailer has an upper deck that sits above the tractor unit, measuring between 10 and 13 feet long. The main deck measures 38 to 40 feet long and just 3 feet and 3 inches off the ground.

2. Lowboy Vs Step Deck – Dimensions and Load Capability –

Other differences in lowboy vs step deck trucking include the length of the load accommodated and load capability. A lowboy, which has two axles, carries cargo up to 12 feet high and with a load capacity of 70,000 pounds. In comparison, a step deck trailer’s height/dimensions limit is maximum of 10 feet for the main deck and 8.5 feet for the front deck. This type of trailer can haul up to 48,000 pounds of cargo.

3. Height Capability –

The thing about a step deck trailer is that it works great for tall freight. However, for extra-tall shipments, a lowboy trailer is the better option. With the deck only 18 inches from the ground, this trailer has no problem transporting items up to 11 feet and 6 inches tall.

While the lowboy trailer is often used for transporting taller, heavier machinery since it sits lower to the ground, the step deck trailer offers more flexibility in hauling items that can benefit from the raised front deck and the slightly higher ground clearance. The upper deck of the step deck trailer also provides more versatility in loading various cargo types. This makes the step deck ideal for taller loads that do not require permits for over-height shipments, whereas a lowboy trailer is often used for oversized loads that exceed standard height restrictions.

Whether interested in lowboy, step deck, or open deck trucking services, MGA International Logistics is a superior choice. For information about our company and all of the services that we provide, please visit us online or call to speak with a representative.

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Step Deck Trailer Vs. Lowboy Trailer