There are a number of variants among step deck trailers, with the most common being fixed neck, goose neck, and removable goose neck (RGN) trailers. Goose neck trailers are a bit more stable and flexible than fixed neck trailers, so that is something to consider. The type of step deck trailer you will want to get is going to depend on the types of loads you will be hauling and what type of loading and unloading options you want. For example, a fixed neck trailer can only be loaded from the back, while a removable goose neck can unload from either side. Bottom line is that you should consider these types of factors when evaluating the right type of step deck trailer for you.

Setting a new standard for long life and low maintenance, PRIMO’s Step Deck (XS Series) trailers are the lightest and strongest on the market. Available in standard lengths from 48ft to 53ft, we also offer options for your special applications that include 28ft, 32ft, 45ft and 51ft lengths. Our design, the lightest tare weight on the market, removes 1,000 lbs to 1,600 lbs of weight from the trailer and boasts 35%-50% stronger decking. When you add up reduced tare weight, reduced maintenance, reduced downtime, and better back hauls, you know it’s more profit to your bottom line.

As we just mentioned a step deck trailer is designed to move freight that would otherwise be too tall to carry on a regular flat bed trailer. Often, you will find step deck trailers used to haul large equipment and vehicles, such as cranes, loaders, compactors, tractors, excavators, generators, building and agricultural equipment and materials, and other heavy machinery.

Of course, these are not the only things that you can haul with a step deck trailer – as I will cover later, these trailers are versatile and can be used to carry all manner of freight, including extra large and heavy items.

Specifications

• 1, 2, 3 or 4 axles
• Extendable
• Wheel arches in the floor
• Grab tray
• Beavertail
• Rigid or steered
• Ramps/lifts in various executions
• Different lengths
• Different axle configurations
• Different tyre configurations
• LHV modifications
• Container locks
• A variety of forklift executions
• With or without aluminium side guards
• Hardwood floor with Omegas
• Different cargo clamping systems
• TÜV “Ladungssicherungs”certification
• Standard LED lighting

Can Haul Taller Loads?

As mentioned, the main benefit of a step deck trailer is its ability to carry tall freight. Its design allows the freight to sit lower to the ground and thus allows you to carry taller items without exceeding legal height limits.

Versatility

An added benefit of a step deck trailer is its versatility. But just because it can carry taller items does not mean you are limited to carrying taller items. As we showed in the picture of the step deck trailer earlier in this article, this type of trailer is perfectly capacity of handling loads that are of normal height as well. This means you can haul all sorts of loads with your step deck.

Easier Loading and Unloading

Because of their low deck height, fork lifts have an easier time loading and unloading freight from a step deck because of its low height (the forklift operator does not have to lift the fork as high), making it an efficient and safe way to transport goods relative to trailers that have taller platforms. And they often come with ramp capabilities, further easing the loading and unloading of cargo.

Can Haul Heavy Loads Too

Double drop deck trailers have can be used if you want to haul extraordinarily large or heavy loads. These trailers have two higher decks (one in front and one in back) with a long lower deck that is sandwiched between them (often called a well). They are able to carry outsized and heavy loads due to their ability to provide 2 or more axles. They have a flip axle that can be placed on the platform when not in use or flipped down to support extra weight when you are carrying freight that requires it.