Deck Over Trailer: Guide, Rates & Freight Quotes

7/1/2024

When you need the open-bed design of a flatbed trailer but the additional ground clearance provided by an elevated platform, the deck over trailer, sometimes referred to as a deck-over or deckover trailer, is the tool of choice. In this article, we'll delve into the essential aspects of deck over trailers, including their features, applications, advantages, specifications, and more.

And for readers considering utilizing deck over trailers for their next freight shipment, we’ll also cover:

• Deck over trailer freight pricing

• Tips on selecting a reliable deck over trailer freight broker

• Suggestions on where to obtain a deck over trailer freight quote

Types of Deck-Over Trailers

Deck over trailers come in various configurations to suit different transportation needs. Here are some common types:

Standard Deck Over Trailer: This type features a raised platform with no sides or rails, providing maximum flexibility for loading and unloading oversized cargo.

Drop Deck Deck Over Trailer: Similar to standard deck over trailers, but with a lower deck height in the front section, allowing for easier loading and unloading of tall or heavy items.

Extendable Deck Over Trailer: These trailers feature a telescoping deck that can be extended to accommodate longer loads, providing versatility for a wide range of cargo.

Double Drop Deck Over Trailer: With two lower deck sections and a raised platform in the middle, double drop deck over trailers offer increased clearance for exceptionally tall items.

Beavertail Deck Over Trailer: Equipped with a sloped rear section, the beavertail deck over allows for easier loading and unloading of vehicles or machinery.

Tilt Deck Over Trailer or Dump Deck Over Trailer: Incorporating a hydraulic tilting mechanism, the tilt deck over the trailer allows for effortless loading and unloading at an angle.

Gooseneck Deck Over Trailer: The gooseneck deck over offers improved maneuverability due to its raised neck design, making it ideal for tight spaces and urban environments.

Specifications of Deck Over Trailers

Cargo Capacity: Deck-over trailers are a type of freight trailer capable of transporting a wide variety of oversized or irregularly shaped cargo, including machinery, equipment, construction materials, and more.

Dimensions: The dimensions of deck over trailers vary depending on the specific model and design, but they typically offer ample space for accommodating large loads. 

Lengths typically range from 30-53’.

The width of a deckover is typically 8.5’, with wider options for oversized cargo.

The deck height is typically 4’, with lowboy deck over options (detailed below) having a bed as low as 2’/

Axles: Most deck-over trailers are equipped with 2-3 axles to distribute weight evenly and ensure stability during transport.

Trailer Weight: The weight of a deck over a trailer depends on factors such as material construction and design features, with typical weights ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 lbs.

Weight Capacity: Ranging from 20,000 to 130,000 pounds, depending on the trailer's size and axle configuration.

Maximum Load: While the maximum load capacity varies depending on the trailer's specifications, it must comply with regulatory weight limits to ensure safe and legal operation on the road.

Applications and Common Cargo of Deck Over Trailers

Due to their ability to accommodate oversized or irregularly shaped cargo, deck-over trailers are used by a diverse set of industries. Some common applications and cargo transported using deck-over trailers include:

Construction and Building Materials: Deck-over trailers are often used to transport construction materials such as lumber, steel beams, concrete forms, and scaffolding due to their spacious and open design, which can accommodate large and heavy items.

Heavy Machinery and Equipment: Industries such as manufacturing, mining, and agriculture rely on deck over trailers to transport heavy machinery and equipment, including bulldozers, excavators, tractors, and industrial machinery, which may have dimensions exceeding those of standard trailers.

Industrial Components: Deck over trailers are suitable for transporting oversized industrial components such as generators, turbines, boilers, and oversized pipes used in various manufacturing processes.

Automotive and Aerospace Parts: Deck over trailers are commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industries to transport oversized components such as aircraft wings, fuselage sections, vehicle chassis, and large engine parts.

Specialized Machinery: Industries such as oil and gas, renewable energy, and telecommunications rely on deck over trailers to transport specialized machinery and equipment, including drilling rigs, wind turbine components, and communication towers.

Modular Buildings and Prefabricated Structures: Deck over trailers are often used to transport modular buildings, prefabricated structures, and oversized architectural components such as prefabricated walls, roof trusses, and modular housing units.

Outdoor and Recreational Equipment: Deck-over trailers are utilized for transporting outdoor and recreational equipment such as boats, RVs, ATVs, snowmobiles, and oversized recreational vehicles, providing a secure and stable platform for transportation.

Infrastructure Components: Deck over trailers play a vital role in transporting infrastructure components such as bridge beams, utility poles, large pipes, and roadway barriers used in construction and maintenance projects.

Event and Exhibition Equipment: Deck over trailers are used to transport event and exhibition equipment such as stage platforms, lighting rigs, sound systems, and oversized display materials for concerts, trade shows, and outdoor events.

Specialty Cargo: Deck-over trailers are suitable for transporting a wide range of specialty cargo, including oversized artwork, sculptures, statues, oversized furniture, and other delicate or high-value items that require careful handling and secure transportation.

Advantages of Deck Over Trailers

Versatility: Deck over trailers offer unparalleled versatility for transporting oversized or irregularly shaped cargo, making them suitable for a wide range of industries and applications.

Accessibility: The raised and wide platform of deck over trailers provides easy access for loading and unloading cargo, minimizing handling time and effort.

Stability: With their sturdy construction and multiple axles, deck over trailers offer excellent stability and weight distribution, ensuring the safe transport of heavy or bulky items.

Customization: Deck over trailers can be customized with additional features such as ramps, tie-down points, and load-securing systems to accommodate specific cargo requirements.

Extra Deck Space: Deckover trailers sit above the wheels, maximizing the usable deck space

Air Ride Suspension (Optional): Enhances ride quality and protects delicate cargo from shock and vibration.

Permit and Compliance Requirements of Deck Over Trailers

Permit and compliance requirements for deck over trailers are typically governed by local, state, and federal regulations. Common considerations include:

Vehicle Registration: Deck over trailers must be properly registered and licensed according to state and federal regulations.

Weight Limits: Compliance with weight limits, including axle weight and gross weight restrictions, is essential to ensure safe operation on roadways.

Commercial Driver's License (CDL): Operators may need a CDL, depending on the trailer's size, weight, and the jurisdiction's regulations.

Vehicle Inspection: Regular inspections are necessary to ensure the trailer and associated vehicles meet safety standards.

Cargo Securement: Compliance with regulations regarding proper cargo securement methods, such as using tie-downs, chains, and straps, is crucial for safe transportation.

Hazardous Materials: If transporting hazardous materials, adherence to Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) is mandatory, including proper labeling, placarding, and documentation.

Hours of Service (HOS): Compliance with HOS regulations governs the maximum allowable driving hours and mandatory rest breaks for drivers operating deck over trailers.

Insurance: Maintaining appropriate insurance coverage for liability and cargo damage is essential for both carriers and operators.

Environmental Regulations: Compliance with spill response and environmental protection measures may be necessary, especially for trailers transporting environmentally sensitive cargo.

State and Local Regulations: Additional requirements, such as size restrictions, permits, and route designations, may vary by state and local jurisdiction.

Ensuring adherence to these permit and compliance requirements is vital for the safe, legal, and efficient operation of deck over trailers.

Deck Over Trailer Freight Pricing

Deck over trailer pricing varies depending on factors such as distance traveled, type and quantity of cargo, additional services required, and current market conditions. To obtain an accurate freight quote for your specific needs, it's recommended to consult with a reputable deck-over trailer freight broker, like Guided Freight.

Selecting a Deck Over Freight Broker

When hiring a dry van trailer freight company, consider the following factors to ensure a smooth and reliable transportation process:

Reputation and Experience

Research the deck over the freight company's reputation and seek reviews and testimonials from previous clients, particularly those with similar shipping needs.

Equipment and Technology

Ensure the company's fleet includes well-maintained and modern dry van trailers equipped with the latest cargo safety and tracking technology.

Compliance and Certification

Confirm that the deck over freight company adheres to industry regulations and standards, especially when handling hazardous materials.

Security Measures

Assess the company's security protocols to safeguard cargo during transit, including locking systems and tracking capabilities.

Insurance Coverage

Verify the extent of insurance coverage for your cargo and understand the claims process in case of incidents during transportation.

Operational Support

Evaluate the company's customer support and communication capabilities, ensuring timely updates on shipment status.

Route Planning and Efficiency

Inquire about the deck over freight company's route planning strategies to optimize transit times and minimize delays.

Environmental Considerations

If environmental sustainability is important to your business, inquire about the company's eco-friendly practices and efforts to reduce emissions.

Cost and Billing Transparency

Understand the company's pricing structure and inquire about any additional charges for specialized services. Ensure transparency in billing.

Deck Over Trailer Freight Quote

If you need deck over trailer services for your next freight shipment, a trusted freight broker like Guided Freight can assist you in obtaining a quick and straightforward freight quote. With our expertise in managing complex logistics, we specialize in ensuring seamless transportation for oversized or irregularly shaped cargo. Contact us today to learn more about our deck over trailer freight services and receive a competitive quote for your transportation needs.