ltl on step deck

Step Deck Trailer Transport

VeriTread connects you with experienced transport companies and drivers who are highly qualified for step deck transport services.
Ship with Us
construction icon

LIST YOUR FREIGHT


Tell us about your freight. Provide details about what you need shipped, where it is and where it is going.
handshake icon

CONNECT WITH A CARRIER


Get Bids from Vetted Carriers and decide a transport provider for yourself, or book instantly and we'll match you with a qualified transport company.
truck icon

SIT BACK & RELAX


We’ve partnered with experienced and insured transporters so you know your equipment is in good hands.

Step Deck Trailer Transport - The Ultimate Guide

Tips, Tricks, and Things You Should Know.
wheel loader on step deck

A step deck trailer is used when transporting cargo that exceeds the legal height limit. This type of commercial trailer allows drivers and operators to avoid obtaining permits for their vehicles. Step deck trailers work well for transporting agricultural machinery, construction equipment, building materials, large vehicles, and other loads that wouldn't be suitable for a traditional flatbed trailer.

Step deck trailers look very similar to flatbeds, but they have two levels. The front level is designed to clear the rear of the tractor at its connection point, while the rear level is lower and allows you to haul taller freight than a traditional flatbed. Step decks can haul the same commodities as the flatbeds but with fewer vertical height restrictions since the main deck is lower to the ground. Their lower main deck allows for freight up to 11 feet tall, which is why we often see larger machinery and construction equipment transported on these types of trailers. Many step deck trailers also have ramp capabilities, making it easier to load and unload equipment. Their lower height allows forklifts to easily access cargo since they’re closer to the ground.

Many individuals find that it is better to hire a professional to move their step deck freight. This is especially true when moving loads over long distances, tricky routes, and through populated areas. It can be difficult and time-consuming to find the right transport provider to handle your load. Luckily, VeriTread is here for you! Our service connects shippers with qualified transport companies around the country who have extensive experience in transporting step deck freight. Still, it’s always best to know everything about the process, should any surprises arise. We have prepared a fundamental guide for step deck transport. Let’s dive into what it takes to safely and legally transport a step deck load from one place to another.

Quick Links
Ship with Us

Preparing A Step Deck Trailer For Transport

We work with thousands of vetted and certified carriers that specialize in Step Deck transport
driver checklist
Perform a Documented Risk Assessment
To ensure that you can handle the risk of a situation, it is important to conduct an assessment. You will document what steps are taken in response and how they could fail so things never get out of control or cause unnecessary harm. Having a clear mental picture of the end results can give you a sound strategy for a successful haul.
Outfit Sites & People With PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
The safety of your crew is the backbone of transport. Without proper protection, they can be at risk not only while preparing for and completing tasks but also during transport if you're carrying heavy cargo. Focusing on PPE documentation will strengthen the overall assessment skill set because it highlights how we take care of ourselves when working with risky loads and situations.
Determine the Weight and Height of Your Equipment
Every load begins with knowing the dimensions and weight of your load and it’s characteristics. The height, width, length, weight, and wind resistance of your cargo are vital considerations when transporting it. Take a few minutes to think about the physics of accelerating, stopping and turning with it on your step deck. The DOT regulations for transportation revolve around these factors. Verify them before you begin to avoid unnecessary fines, delays, or accidents.
Inspect Your Truck and Trailer
Make sure your truck has adequate power to tow the load and your trailer is rated to handle the cargo weight. Inspect your truck and trailer is in good working order, pay specific attention to the tires, lights, brakes, anchor & tie-down points, and hydraulic hoses. If you have questions about the capacities of these tie-down points, like when using a rental step deck trailer for example, be sure to get them answered in advance.
Ship with Us

Loading & Securing Construction Equipment Safely

We work with thousands of vetted and certified carriers that specialize in Step Deck transport
step deck trailer
Designate Duties
Make sure everyone involved in loading the machine has been trained properly. You may know exactly how you intend to secure a load, but if someone helping you doesn’t share your vision, that can be a problem, especially if they’re out of sight on the other side of the trailer. Not only do they need to know what they're doing, but also how their actions might cause damage or injury if carried out improperly! Explain your plan to them and check their work before you start driving.
Make sure the trailer you are loading onto is on flat, level ground
A tilted trailer can cause rollover problems that are easily avoidable.
Be aware of all obstacles in your area
Adjust your loading strategy to avoid hitting any nearby objects and move everything to a safe distance if possible.
Check that your truck can handle the load and is parked and secure
Use the parking brakes or wheel chocks if necessary to prevent unwanted movement.
Check your trailer deck
Make sure it is as clean as possible and ready to accept the load.
Distribute the Weight Properly
Your load should be placed directly over the axles with a little more of the weight towards the front of the trailer. A good rule of thumb is 60% toward the front and 40% toward the back. If you load too heavy in the rear, the trailer will fishtail. If you load too heavy in the front of the trailer, there will be less weight on the front axle of the towing vehicle which can reduce traction and steering ability. When loading a vehicle, tractor, or heavy equipment, be sure to load evenly leaving equal space on each side of the trailer. When loading materials with a forklift, be sure to load over the axles and toward the center for partial loads and avoid have weight on only one side of the trailer.
Binders Chains, Straps, Nets, & More
Chains are very strong, but they they may cause damage to certain types of loads. Straps and ropes aren’t as strong as chains, but are easier on cargo. Wedges, blocks, and chocks can be an important part of your load-securing strategy if you are hauling things that can roll—pipes, vehicles, etc.—and nets can be used to help secure loose materials. It’s critical that you know the restraint ratings of all binders to safely secure your freight. in terms of how much weight they can handle.
Follow these steps when using chains

1) Using the right chains. A chain has a working load limit of 1/3 of the chain breaking strength. Understanding the weight capacity of each chain can get complicated because it depends on the diameter and the grade of the chain. Do your research if you are unsure.
2) Inspect chains for wear, drag marks, or broken links.
3) Connect at least one (1) chain from four (4) points of the equipment, usually to the axle which is considered to be more secure than the designated tie-down point provided by the manufacturer. Be sure to cross the chains. If you are loading equipment that has a bucket or backhoe, it’s best to run another chain over that object to prevent swinging or movement that could be a safety hazard. The chains should be attached to a D-ring or fed through the inside of the stake pocket and brought up on the outside for the stake pocket hooked to the top of the stake pocket. This should prevent the chain from coming detached if the chain loosens. Never run the chain on the outside of the rub rail. Position the chains so that the front chains pull forward and the rear chains pull backward and use a chain ratchet to secure the load.

Follow these steps when using straps

1) When using straps, you must first make sure you are using the right straps with the proper weight limits. This is referred to as the working load limit which means the amount of weight each strap will support. The Working Load Limit is 1/3 of the breaking strength of the straps. For example, if the strap breaking strength is 10,000 lbs, the Working Load Limit is about 3,333 lbs.
2) Inspect straps to be sure there are no frays or cuts that could weaken the straps.
3) When securing supplies, straps should be placed every 10 feet. If the load is less than 10 feet long, two (2) straps are required.

Securing Equipment

If you are transporting machinery make sure all equipment attachments, work tools, and other accessory equipment must be lowered and secured before transportation. Retract booms and buckets and secure them in place. Secure equipment components (lock all doors, covers, tailgates, and articulation points). Also, make sure the machine transmission is immobilized and brakes are locked. For additional protection to your equipment, you may choose to cover it with a tarp or wrap it with shrink wrap. This protects the equipment from dirt, debris, and moisture on the roadways. For equipment with a smokestack, be sure to cover it so debris cannot enter. Use ample & appropriate securing devices (chains, binders, straps, & anchors). Choose appropriate attachment points on the machine and trailer. Once the load is secured, check everything a second time. It can be helpful to have a safety check system in place where multiple people check the load, instead of relying on a single person.

Check out a good securement video from Dirt Perfect. It covers tips. tricks, do's & don'ts for equipment greater than 10,001 lbs.

Put cushioning material between items if needed
Items that aren’t properly secured can damage one another if they shift in transit. Use appropriate cushion material to prevent in transit damage to your freight.
Cover the load if appropriate
If you have a large load that can be blown off the trailer or items with components which could easily get damaged by strong winds while traveling down highway, make sure to cover it fully and securely with tarps or other coverings.
Verify Driver Visibility
Make sure the driver has a clear view of what’s going on around them. The placement of equipment should also allow free movement of the driver and should not obstruct them from exiting the vehicle or accessing any necessary vehicle components or accessories. This ensures the driver can safely transport the machinery and keeps your company compliant with DOT regulations.
Ship with Us

Transporting Step Deck Freight

We work with thousands of vetted and certified carriers that specialize in Step Deck transport
ltl on step deck
Planning the Best Route

Heavy loads can be very dangerous in rush hour traffic in big cities. Take time before your trip and map out a route (and time) that avoids areas of construction or heavy congestion on the roadways, you'll thank yourself later! Try to avoid toll roads, low-hanging bridges, or any other interruptions or delays that could slow transportation. The best routes have the least amount of bridges, turns, starts, stops, and difficult terrain.

You also need to be sure that the roads along your route can handle the weight, height, and width of the load. It is very dangerous to assume that all roads can handle the weight of a heavy load. If the area is unfamiliar, then we strongly suggest you drive the route in a smaller vehicle first to identify areas of concern.

Laws, Regulations, & Permits
Complying with all permits and regulations is especially important if your load qualifies as oversized or overwidth. Most larger heavy equipment fits this designation which can carry extra liability. Check the laws and regulations for every state where the load will be transported. These laws change as you cross state borders, so don’t assume that the regulations at your destination are the same as those at the departure point. Additionally, Federal regulations apply for interstate commercial loads that weigh more than 10,000 pounds. In some situations, it may make more financial sense to disassemble the machine into smaller sections so that it can travel on multiple trailers as a legal load to avoid oversize and overwidth requirements. In some situations, it is necessary to acquire permits before oversized loads can travel on state roads or highways. Also, check to see if a pilot car is required for your load.
Run Safety Inspections While En Route

Heavy load securement requires check-ins and inspections while on the road, especially when traveling long distances. Walk around the trailer every time you stop for gas, food or a rest break and look for any indicators that the load is shifting, restraints are being damaged, etc. Have extra restraints with you so you can replace or reinforce those you’re already using if necessary.Industry safety standards recommend the following as inspection benchmarks while heavy cargo is en route:

  • Once during the first 50 miles of transport.
  • Once every 150 miles or once every 3 hours — whichever comes first for long-distance hauls.
  • At every change of duty or change of driver station. Have the new driver run a full inspection, then document that inspection in a transport log.
Ship with Us

Safely Unloading A Step Deck Trailer

We work with thousands of vetted and certified carriers that specialize in Step Deck transport
driver check
Prepare the Delivery Site

Before unloading, take the time to review and clear the designated unloading area in the receiving yard. Just as you pay attention to this during the loading phase, wet and muddy ramps, cluttered docks, and uneven unloading ground make this part of the operation much harder than necessary. Line the ramps up with the rear of the trailer bed as methodically as possible, taking time to match joints and eliminate any gaps between the trailer and the ramp or dock. Once the machinery begins backing up, there will be no time to reposition.

With everything in place, conduct a final condition survey. Look over the equipment’s tires and hitches to ensure their health. Review roles with personnel, appointing a spotter and an equipment operator just like during the loading process and before you begin breaking down the chain tie points. You’ll also want to do a brief survey on the condition of the tie-downs themselves before their release. It is highly unsafe to undo straps and chains if the load has shifted, even minutely. If this is the case after performing a walk-through, you and the operators will have to draw up a custom unloading plan.

Free the Load
Release the chains, binders, and straps one at a time, beginning with the rear corners. Unravel excess chain that may have been wrapped around the links, then start loosening tie-downs with their ratchet-style wrench boomers. Be very careful, as chains and binders have been wound and should still be tight and pressurized. You don’t want a metal chain unexpectedly snapping up because joints and tension weren’t adequately reduced with the ratchet boomer. This could result in serious injury or death.
Finish It Up
Once delivery is finished, perform a final inspection. Go over all equipment, truck, trailer, anchor points, and tools before sending everyone on their way. Make proper documentation and load up all tools and supplies. Stay safe and legal and send everyone home healthy and in one piece.
Ship with Us
4.6
Based on 272 reviews
USPENN D.
Great experience with Michele, thank you so much. Will be glad to work you again.Best RegardsMax
Acrosstheglobeconsulting
I work with a lot of brokers and Michele was awesome and very professional. Great business to work with!!
Alvin S.
I ran serveral loads for Michele Kondrisack, she is great to work with!
Steve C.
Angela and her team were more than accommodating with my busy schedule. Communicative and efficient got me my truck.
Pat M.
Excellent insights, communication and recommendations from Matthew Hagelberger. Thanks guys I got my shipment in two days!!
Jorge Raúl Avilas H.
I work for Raftel Logistics LLC, a carrier specialized in open deck trailer transportation. A few days ago we booked a load with VeriTread LLC. I would like to highlight the role of Michelle who was always available throughout the entire process to make sure everything ran smoothly. Great experience.
Andrei I.
Best service, in special Michelle was really nice and professional
TORQ W.
great company to work with specially michele she was very professional and nice
Christopher P.
As a carrier, I interact with a lot of brokers on a consistent basis, with experiences ranging across the board.What I can say about VeriTread and the broker I worked with (Michele) while booking one of the loads they had posted is that I wish they were all as polite, and accommodating, but yet, still thorough and by the book as she, and VeriTread was. If we had more brokers, and brokerages like Michele and VeriTread, the transportation industry and the customers we serve would be much better off.Michele is a shining example of exactly what and how a broker should be conducting business and representing not only the company they work for, but their customers as well.VeriTread is fortunate to have such an amazing employee, and I was fortunate to work with her.
P&A Transport & Trucking L.
It was a pleasure working with Michele K. The rate per mile was good and all paper work was clear and in order. We had no issues with pick-up or delivery. If I had a question, I spoke directly to Michele. It would be a breeze if we could work with more brokers like her. She was very knowledgable. We would definitely work with her again!
Jatana A.
Michele was great to work with and was there if I needed anything for the load. Thank you very much.
Angel S
Great company. I worked with Michelle on one of their loads. She was very professional , replied to my emails right away, we had an amazing communication. We will be happy to work again with VeryTread.
John W
Great company to work with. Looking forward to do more business in the future .
Gary L.
Delivery was ahead of schedule, driver with 53ft step deck negotiated the driveway and access challenges with skill.
Andrei B.
Thank you Michele Kondrisack!!!!!!
Diane R.
Gabriel was great to work with. Very quick and efficient. The excavator was delivery earlier than expected in great shape. I would definitely use them again
Lillian C.
MICHELLE IS A GREAT BROKER , GOOD COMMUNICATION AND VERY RESPECTFULL BROKER TO WORK WITH
Archie P.
MICHELE THE BEST BROKER!!!!!!
sergio L.
I recently just got my mt45 ship. Angie made it super easy with the transaction and communication with me and the auction I bought it from.
Sam M.
Great service, called , verified time of delivery, delivered on time , Shana and the driver were very polite and professional. I would highly recommend them.
赵逸轩(Passion F.
Angela Senffner
kryspy C.
Awesome team, especially Michelle, very professional! Was a pleasure to work with them!
Josiah K.
Angie and Mike were very helpful
B H.
Great service! Angie did an awesome job with the logistics, and driver Lionel was great with communication. I highly recommend this company!!!
Jay M.
VeriTread LLC. I recently booked a shipment with Michele and encountered some difficulties in shipper. Despite the challenges, Michele responded fast and provided all the necessary information she had. Her assistance was greatly appreciated.
Tom T
Veritread has been my go to for getting things shipped cross country! Highly suggest Matthew Hagelberger to be your sales rep he’s made my life easy, his communication and customer service are second to none. Shipped everything from pallets to a truck across country, would recommend. Ask for Matthew he will get you set up right!
Derek R.
Angie did a wonderful job getting my pickup set up. Also, during delivery, there was some confusion and Angie was awesome helping me get it sorted.
Jose M.
Michelle the best !!! Thank you for your help!
Melissa K.
A wonderful company to work with. We will use again. Thank you!
TARANJEET S.
Booked a load with Michele ,really nice to deal with
Alexander H.
Great experience, will definitely work with VeriTread again!
Robert F.
Angela @ Veritread made the transport process seamless.Great job and look forward to the next one.Robert
B B.
Michele K. with Veritread makes forming a Broker/ Carrier relationship easy by providing all pertinent information upfront and providing carriers with fair rates to haul loads. We will gladly work with Michele/ Veritread anytime our trucks are in an area where they are moving freight.
Robert H.
Thanks, Angie for the seamless pick-up and delivery of my commercial truck. Angie set up the time and date with the pickup location and relayed everything to the driver. The only thing I had to do was accept my vehicle when it was delivered. Even, the driver was accommodating and friendly. Thanks again.
Rick Paley (Big Rig T.
VeriTread LLX were fabulous to work with, we very much appreciate their business and professionalism. We hope this is the start of a long working relationship with them too.
Pihu S.
Thank you Lee for your quick assistance. Your cooperation has been invaluable to us, and your prompt response has made a significant difference in our ability to address the situation effectively. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our partnership 🙂
Manny H.
Fabulous company. Worked with Lee - a great, professional and best to communicate with.
George - Classic T.
Great company to work with. We have specifically worked with Lee many times. There have never been any hassles or problems. Everything has always gone very smoothy. A+ for VeriTread and Lee!
Mohamed S.
Great experience! Michele was very helpful and responsive. Would definitely recommend.
js_loader