Short answer
Rent a step deck when freight is taller than about 8.5 ft but under about 10 ft: that is the legal freight height on a typical lower deck, versus about 8.5 ft on a flatbed (ILS chart). We found no published step deck rental rate, so get quotes from two or three branches.
Step deck vs flatbed
Typical figures from the ILS chart
| Flatbed (48 ft) | Step deck (single drop) | |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | One level, 48 ft | Upper about 11 ft, lower about 37 ft |
| Legal freight height | about 8.5 ft | about 10 ft on the lower deck |
| Max freight weight | about 48,000 lb | about 48,000 lb |
| Loading | Forklift from either side, crane | Same, plus ramps for rolling equipment on many units |
| Downside | Height | Shorter usable deck for tall items; the step limits long flat loads |
Who rents step decks
Most national dry van lessors list flatbeds but not step decks, so step decks come from flatbed specialists, equipment dealers and owner-operator marketplaces. Call branches in our directory and ask for their specialty desk.
Ramps
If you are driving a machine on, ask whether the unit has ramps and what they are rated for. A step deck with ramps can carry small loaders and tractors that would otherwise need a lowboy.
Questions people ask
Is a drop deck the same as a step deck?
Yes. Step deck, drop deck and single drop are names for the same trailer: an upper deck over the tractor and a lower main deck.
How tall can freight be on a step deck?
About 10 ft on the lower deck of a typical unit, which keeps the total under a 13 ft 6 in limit. Measure the actual deck height of the trailer you rent.
Sources
Last reviewed October 29, 2026. Rates, branches and terms change; confirm with the lessor before you book.