Drop Deck Trailers For Sale

What is a step deck trailer? Step deck trailers, also known as drop deck trailers, are a type of flatbed semi-trailer that features a unique two-level deck configuration—an upper and lower deck—specifically designed to transport taller cargo. These semi-trailers typically range in length from 40 feet to 53 feet, with the 48 feet and 53 feet models being the most common. Read More
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Featured Item
2008 UTILITY Drop Deck Trailer
4 0

2008 UTILITY Drop Deck Trailer

$12,000 USD
2008 Aluminum 53' Utility step deck trailer. In good condition tires and brakes are in good shape 775-842-8533
ConditionUsed
MLS Number13183302
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated6/15/2025
Location
Reno, NV, US
Sold By

Private Party

Featured Item
Transcraft 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
14 0

2017 Transcraft 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

$34,500 USD
Color: Silver, Suspension Location: Rear Axle Slide, Additional Equipment: Dunnage Rack, Air Ride, 24 Sliding Winches, Chain Tie Downs, 3 Tool Boxes,
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
Stock Number26283
MLS Number13621772
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated6/12/2025
Location
Oklahoma City, OK, US
Sold By

Great Western Trailer

Featured Item
2013 Reitnouer DropMiser Drop Deck Trailer
33 0

2013 Reitnouer DropMiser Drop Deck Trailer

$37,000 USD
2013 Reitnouer dropmiser 51 ft × 102 in Aluminum. Lower deck 40 feet long upper deck 11 feet . Well maintained, almost everything was installed new: tires, whole brake system (new drums,...
ConditionUsed
L x W51 ft. x 102 in.
Suspension4 Bag Air Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
RampsYes
MLS Number12975387
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated5/17/2025
Location
Bensalem, PA, US
Sold By

Private Party

Featured Item
Doonan 4X DROP DECK EXTENDABLE OILFIELD TRAILER Drop Deck Trailer
19 0

2026 Doonan 4X DROP DECK EXTENDABLE OILFIELD TRAILER Drop Deck Trailer

Call for price
New 2026 Doonan, 53' Extendable to 65' Quad Axle Drop Deck, Tail Roller, 102" Wide, 4" x Members on 12" Centers, 40" Rear Deck Height, 49" KP Setting, 18" KP Setting, 13/8" Apitong Wood Deck...
ConditionNew
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleQuad Axle
Floor TypeApitong Floor
WinchYes
Stock Number10306
MLS Number13450369
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated6/13/2025
Location
Robstown, TX, US
Sold By

J&B Pavelka, Inc.

2018 Reitnouer 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - All Aluminum, Aluminum Floor, Rear Sliding Axle, Toolbox, Tire Inflation System, 17.5 Tires
3 0

2018 Reitnouer 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - All Aluminum, Aluminum Floor, Rear Sliding Axle, Toolbox, Tire Inflation System, 17.5 Tires

Price Drop
$47,990 USD
2018 Reitnouer 53 ft Step Deck Trailer, , Model: Reitnouer Big Bubba 53' Drop Deck Trailer, Aluminum Frame, Aluminum Floor, Rear Sliding Axle- CA and FL Legal, Air Ride Suspension,...
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
Stock NumberALMF
MLS Number13600050
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Prior Lake, MN, US
Sold By

ITAG Equipment

2020 Mac 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - All Aluminum, Aluminum Floor, Fixed Spread Axle, Load Levelers, 17.5 Tires
50 1

2020 Mac 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - All Aluminum, Aluminum Floor, Fixed Spread Axle, Load Levelers, 17.5 Tires

Price Drop
$35,990 USD
2020 Mac 53 ft Step Deck Trailer Model: Mac 53' Drop Deck Trailer, Aluminum Frame, AluminumFloor, Fixed Spread Axle, Air Ride Suspension, Title Status: TX Paper Clean, 53x102 - 53...
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
Weight10,903
Stock NumberALMF
MLS Number13507646
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Fort Worth, TX, US
Sold By

ITAG Equipment

2020 Diamond C 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - 12,000 lb Axles, Tandem Axle, Toolbox, Ramps, Dunnage Rack, 17.5 Tires
22 0

2020 Diamond C 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - 12,000 lb Axles, Tandem Axle, Toolbox, Ramps, Dunnage Rack, 17.5 Tires

Recently Updated
$21,990 USD
2020 Diamond C Step Deck Trailer, , Model: Diamond C 53' Drop Deck Trailer, Steel Frame, Wood Floor, Tandem Axle, Air Ride Suspension, Title Status: ME Paper Clean 53x102: 53 foot...
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeWood Floor
RampsYes
Stock NumberSpecials
MLS Number13488484
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Hyannis, MA, US
Sold By

ITAG Equipment

2020 Benson 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - All Aluminum, Aluminum Floor, Rear Sliding Axle, Aluminum Ramps, Toolbox, Tire Inflation System, 17.5 Tires
10 1

2020 Benson 53ft Drop Deck Trailer - All Aluminum, Aluminum Floor, Rear Sliding Axle, Aluminum Ramps, Toolbox, Tire Inflation System, 17.5 Tires

Price Drop
$44,990 USD
2020 Benson 53 ft Step Deck Trailer Model: Benson 524A 53' Drop Deck Trailer, Steel Neck with an Aluminum Lower Frame, Aluminum Floor, Rear Sliding Axle - Cal and FL Legal, Air Ride...
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
RampsYes
Stock NumberALMF
MLS Number13593276
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Beavertown, PA, US
Sold By

ITAG Equipment

Fontaine 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle
11 0

2019 Fontaine 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle

Recently Updated
$36,900 USD
2019 Fontaine Infinity Combo Drop Deck, California Legal Trailer, 53' x 102", Steel Main Beams, Aluminum Deck and Rails, RASR Rail, Pull Up Chain Ties, Sliding Winches, 4 Nail Strips, 1 Tool...
Quantity2
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10910
MLS Number13646691
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Dorsey 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
11 0

2018 Dorsey 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

Recently Updated
$31,900 USD
2018 Dorsey Steel Giant Drop Deck, 48' x 102", Steel Main Beams and Rails, Wood Deck, Stake Pockets, Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches, Fixed Spread Air Ride, Steel wheels, 255/70R22.5 Tires,
ConditionUsed
L x W48 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeWood Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10936
MLS Number13633117
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

DURA HAUL 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Axle
6 0

2026 DURA HAUL 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Axle

Recently Updated
$49,900 USD
2026 Dura Haul Steel, 48' x 102", Apitong Deck, Stake Pockets, Double Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches, Closed Tandem, Air Ride, Steel Wheels, 255/70R22.5 Tires, Steel Beaver Tail w 2 Flip...
Quantity6
ConditionNew
L x W48 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeApitong Floor
RampsYes
WinchYes
Stock Number10700
MLS Number13622171
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Dorsey 48x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
12 0

2019 Dorsey 48x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

Recently Updated
$32,900 USD
2019 Dorsey Combo Drop Deck, 48' x 102", Steel Main Beams, Aluminum Deck and Rails, Coil Package, Pullup Chain Ties, Stake Pockets, Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches, Spread Air Ride, Steel...
ConditionUsed
L x W48 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10901
MLS Number13586660
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Fontaine Infinity 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle
24 0

2016 Fontaine Infinity 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle

Price Drop
$20,900 USD
2016 FONTAINE INFINITY 53FT. DROP DECK, REAR AXLE SLIDE, ALL STEEL WHEELS ON 22.5 TIRES, 1 TOOLBOX(MISSING HANDLE), SLIDING WINCH TRACKS ON BOTH SIDES, STEEL CROSSMEMBERS, CCR SIDE RAIL, NEW...
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock Number21012-C
MLS Number13560162
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Houston, TX, US
Sold By

J&B Pavelka, Inc.

Dorsey 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle
14 0

2020 Dorsey 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle

Recently Updated
$36,900 USD
2020 Dorsey Combo Giant Drop Deck, 53' x 102", Steel Main Beams, Aluminum Deck and Rails, Nail Strips, Pull Up Chain Ties, Stake Pockets, Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches, Coil Package, 1 Tool...
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10836
MLS Number13557094
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Reitnouer TRI AXLE BUBBA DROP ON 19.5 MICHELINS Drop Deck Trailer
12 0

2026 Reitnouer TRI AXLE BUBBA DROP ON 19.5 MICHELINS Drop Deck Trailer

Recently Updated
$79,900 USD
10'8" Upper Deck w/ 24" king Pin , 38" Deck Height, Hendrickson Intraax IN250L Air Suspension, Lift on Center Rear Axles, 40' from King Pin to Center Axle, LP 19.5 Michelin Tires on...
Quantity6
ConditionNew
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTri Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock Number74628
MLS Number13533610
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Columbus, GA, US
Sold By

Booth Trailer Sales Inc.

Reitnouer TRI AXLE BUBBA DROP ON 19.5 MICHELINS Drop Deck Trailer
12 0

2026 Reitnouer TRI AXLE BUBBA DROP ON 19.5 MICHELINS Drop Deck Trailer

Recently Updated
$79,900 USD
10'8" Upper Deck w/ 24" king Pin , 38" Deck Height, Hendrickson Intraax IN250L Air Suspension, Lift on Center Rear Axles, 40' from King Pin to Center Axle, LP 19.5 Michelin Tires on...
ConditionNew
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTri Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock Number74625
MLS Number13533599
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Columbus, GA, US
Sold By

Booth Trailer Sales Inc.

Fontaine 48x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
11 0

2012 Fontaine 48x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

Recently Updated
$24,900 USD
2012 Fontaine Combo Drop Deck, 48' x 102", Steel Main Beams, Aluminum Deck and Rails, Bolt on Aluminum Bulkhead, Nail Strips, Sliding Winches, Coil Package, Fixed Spread Air Ride, Steel...
Quantity4
ConditionUsed
L x W48 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10779
MLS Number13499008
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Fontaine 48x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
11 0

2014 Fontaine 48x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

Recently Updated
$24,900 USD
2014 Fontaine Combo Drop Deck, 48' x 102", Steel Main Beams, Aluminum Deck and Rails, Bolt on Aluminum Bulkhead, Nail Strips, RASR Rail, Sliding Winches, Coil Package, Fixed Spread Air Ride...
ConditionUsed
L x W48 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10720
MLS Number13435711
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Fontaine 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle
12 0

2020 Fontaine 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle

Recently Updated
$36,900 USD
2020 Fontaine Infinity Combo Drop Deck, California Legal Trailer, 53' x 102", Steel Main Beams, Aluminum Deck and Rails, RASR Rail, Sliding Winches, 4 Nail Strips, Tandem Axle, Air Ride w...
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10753
MLS Number13433512
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Transcraft 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
5 0

2008 Transcraft 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

Recently Updated
$22,500 USD
Color: Blue, Suspension Location: Spread Axle (Set to Rear),
ConditionUsed
L x W48 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeApitong Floor
Stock Number25890
MLS Number13365490
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Fontana, CA, US
Sold By

Great Western Trailer

DURA HAUL 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Axle
12 0

2026 DURA HAUL 48x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Axle

Recently Updated
$47,900 USD
2026 Dura Haul Steel Drop Deck, 48' x 102", Steel Main Beams and Rails, Apitong Deck, 2 Speed Landing Gear, Stake Pockets, Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches, Fixed Closed Tandem, Steel Wheels,...
Quantity10
ConditionNew
L x W48 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeApitong Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberNE10644
MLS Number13055972
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

DURA HAUL 53x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
12 0

2025 DURA HAUL 53x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

Recently Updated
$48,900 USD
2025 Dura Haul Steel Drop Deck, 53' x 102", 10'-6" Upper Deck, 42'-6" Lower Deck, Steel Main Beams and Rails, Apitong Wood Deck, Stake Pockets, Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches, Fixed Spread Air...
Quantity10
ConditionNew
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeApitong Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberNE10802
MLS Number12971358
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Fontaine 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle
7 0

2023 Fontaine 53x102 Combination Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Sliding Axle

Recently Updated
$39,900 USD
Late Model, 2023 Fontaine Infinity Combo Drop Deck, Cal Legal Trailer, 53' x 102", Steel Main Beams, Aluminum Deck and Rails, RASR Rail, Sliding Winches, 4 Nail Strips, Tandem Axle, Air ride...
Quantity2
ConditionUsed
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeAluminum Floor
WinchYes
Stock NumberUE10204
MLS Number12852431
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Albuquerque, NM, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

DURA HAUL STEEL DROP DECK W BEAVER TAIL, S Drop Deck Trailer
15 0

2025 DURA HAUL STEEL DROP DECK W BEAVER TAIL, S Drop Deck Trailer

Recently Updated
$49,900 USD
2025 Dura Haul Steel Drop Deck w Beaver Tail, 53' x 102", 10'5" Upper Deck, 19.5" Drop, 38' Lower Deck, 4'8" Beaver Tail, Apitong Deck, Stake Pockets, Double Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches,...
Quantity8
ConditionNew
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeApitong Floor
RampsYes
WinchYes
Stock Number008574
MLS Number12437920
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

DURA HAUL 53x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle
15 0

2025 DURA HAUL 53x102 Steel Drop Deck Trailer - Air Ride, Fixed Spread Axle

Recently Updated
$49,900 USD
2025 Dura Haul Steel, 53' x 102", 10'5" Upper Deck, 19.5" Drop, 38' Lower Deck, 4'8" Beaver Tail, Apitong Deck, Stake Pockets, Double Pipe Spools, Sliding Winches, Fixed Spread Air Ride,...
Quantity8
ConditionNew
L x W53 ft. x 102 in.
SuspensionAir Ride
Rear AxleTandem Axle
Floor TypeApitong Floor
RampsYes
WinchYes
Stock Number008573
MLS Number12437919
CategoryDrop Deck Trailers
Last Updated7/3/2025
Location
Henderson, CO, US
Sold By

Utility Trailer Interstate

Did you find what you were looking for? Yes No

Understanding Step Deck Trailers

Step deck trailers are designed to transport taller shipments or specialized equipment that standard trailers cannot accommodate. They are commonly used in industries that frequently move oversized loads such as construction equipment, tractors, and other large machinery.

Key Features and Benefits of Step Deck Trailers

Wabash Transcraft Combo Step Deck Trailer
Wabash Transcraft Combo Step Deck Trailer

Two-Level Deck Structure

The unique two-level deck structure is a defining feature of step deck trailers, with a shorter upper deck at the front and a lower deck at the rear, allows for diverse cargo types. The lower deck's reduced height accommodates taller freight without exceeding legal height restrictions, while the upper deck provides additional space for other cargo.

Optimized Load Distribution

Step deck trailers achieve optimized load distribution through their unique two-level design, strategic axle placement, and advanced suspension systems. These features collectively ensure safer transport operations, enhanced fuel efficiency, and prolonged vehicle durability by evenly spreading cargo weight across all supporting structures.

Increased Cargo Capacity

The lower deck height enables step deck trailers to carry larger volumes of cargo without breaching height restrictions, ensuring taller loads stay within legal limits.

Adaptability for Various Cargo Types

The flexible design suits multiple industries by allowing different types of freight, such as oversized machinery and construction materials, to be loaded easily.

Common Industries Relying on Step Deck Trailers

Several industries benefit from the unique features of step deck trailers:

  • Construction: Ideal for transporting pre-fabricated building parts, scaffolding, steel beams, and large industrial components that benefit from the lower deck height but don’t need the extreme height allowance of a lowboy.
  • Agriculture: Suitable for moving large tractors and other oversized farming equipment. This makes them indispensable during harvest season or when moving equipment between farms.
  • Manufacturing: Large industrial components that require careful handling and transport, like factory machinery or oversized building materials, are often shipped using step deck trailers.
  • Tall Freight: Perfect for shipments that exceed the height limitations of standard flatbed trailers, such as large tanks and oversized HVAC units, and prefabricated building sections or modular homes.

Step Deck Trailer Dimensions

Understanding the dimensions of a step deck trailer is critical for planning transportation logistics, ensuring compliance with legal restrictions, and optimizing load capacity.

Width

The standard width of a step deck trailer is 96 inches to 102 inches. This width provides plenty of room for wide loads while still following legal width limits in most areas.

Length

The length of a step deck trailer can vary significantly. Commonly, these trailers are around 48 feet to 53 feet long, although some models can extend to accommodate longer cargo. Extendable step deck trailers can reach lengths of 80 feet and offer additional flexibility by allowing the length to be adjusted based on specific transportation needs.

  • Upper Deck Length: Typically between 10 to 12 feet long.
  • Lower Deck Length: Ranges from 21 to 43 feet in length.

Height

The height of a step deck trailer is usually around 40 inches to 42 inches from the ground for the lower deck. This lower height allows for the transportation of taller cargo that would exceed legal height limits if carried on a regular flatbed trailer.

Key Considerations When Buying a Step Deck Trailer

Choosing the right step deck trailer involves balancing various considerations to match your specific business needs. Evaluating these aspects can help you make an informed decision that optimizes both efficiency and safety in your operations.

Weight and Size of Cargo

Evaluating the weight and dimensions of the cargo you plan to transport is crucial.

  • Weight Capacity: A typical drop deck trailer has a load capacity of around 46,000 pounds. Ensure the trailer you choose can handle the maximum weights you intend to carry.
  • Cargo Dimensions: Consider the height, width, and length of your typical loads. An extendable step deck trailer might be necessary for extra-long items, providing additional flexibility without compromising safety or legal compliance.

Trailer Length: 48' vs. 53'

One of the first decisions you'll make is choosing a length, most commonly between a 48' step deck trailer and a 53' step deck trailer.

  • 48' Step Deck Trailer: Typically more maneuverable and easier to navigate in tight spaces. Ideal for shorter hauls or routes with many turns.
  • 53' Step Deck Trailer: Offers additional length, providing more space for longer cargo. This can be particularly beneficial if you're frequently transporting lengthy items such as construction beams or large machinery parts.

Trailer Composition and Flooring

Drop deck trailers come in various compositions, including aluminum, steel, and composite, commonly referred to as "combo". Aluminum trailers are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for long-term use in harsh environments. Steel trailers, though heavier, offer superior strength and durability, suitable for carrying extremely heavy loads. Composite trailers combine the benefits of both aluminum and steel, providing a balanced option that offers both strength and reduced weight.

The flooring options for drop deck trailers typically include hardwood, aluminum, or composite materials. Hardwood floors are durable and provide excellent traction but can be heavier and more susceptible to moisture damage. Aluminum floors are lightweight and resistant to corrosion but may be slippery when wet. Composite floors offer a middle ground with good durability, reduced weight, and better resistance to environmental factors.

Fixed vs. Sliding Axles

Choosing fixed axles for your step deck trailer ensures stability and sturdiness, perfect for consistent loads and straightforward routes. Sliding axles, on the other hand, offer superior flexibility in weight distribution and enhanced maneuverability, ideal for varying cargo weights and tight spaces. While fixed axles limit adaptability to different load sizes and road conditions, sliding axles bring versatility but may require more maintenance due to their mechanical complexity.

Standard vs. Low Profile Step Deck

Step deck trailers come in standard and low profile options. Standard decks usually have a lower deck height of around 40 to 42 inches from the ground, while low profile decks typically have a lower deck height of about 36 inches from the ground.

Low profile decks, also known as just "low pro", are designed to make it easier to load and unload cargo with lower clearance. They also provide a little extra space for slightly taller goods. However, there are some trade-offs with low profile decks. Because they sit closer to the ground, low profile decks may have reduced ground clearance limiting the ability to navigate uneven terrain or obstacles. To compensate for the lower height, low profile decks are often built with additional materials, making them heavier and potentially reducing fuel efficiency.

With Ramps or Without

When choosing whether to seek out a step deck trailer with ramps, think about the cargo and different ways you can load it. If you have access to forklifts, cranes, or loading docks, you may not need ramps. However, if you don't have lifting equipment or if their availability is uncertain, having ramps is crucial for easy and efficient loading and unloading.

Where to Find the Perfect Drop Deck Trailer for Sale

MyLittleSalesman.com provides a wide selection of step deck trailers for sale to suit different budgets and needs. Whether you're a truck driver, owner-operator, or fleet manager, we're confident you'll find the ideal trailer for your transportation needs. From new models to budget-friendly used step deck trailers, we have it all.

Got a drop deck trailer to sell? In minutes, you can create an online listing for your drop deck trailer and advertise it to thousands of buyers.
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