Step Deck dispatch for owner-operators
Two-level open deck that carries taller freight than a flatbed while staying within legal height.
We find and negotiate step deck loads on your lanes, coordinate pickups and deliveries, and handle detention, TONU, lumper and paperwork. 5% of the rate con or $250 a week, no contract.
Step Deck
An open trailer with an upper deck over the fifth wheel and a lower main deck. The lower deck lets taller freight travel without exceeding legal height limits.
Freight it commonly carries
- Machinery too tall for a standard flatbed
- Construction and farm equipment
- Industrial units and large components
Typical shipments
- A piece of factory equipment to a new plant
- A small excavator or tractor to a dealer or job site
- Large HVAC units to a commercial building project
Equipment & capacity considerations
- Check upper and lower deck lengths against the freight before booking.
- Weight has to be distributed correctly across the decks and axles.
- Ramps may be needed for drive-on equipment.
- Over-height or over-width freight still needs permits.
Common challenges
- Freight dimensions given late or incorrectly
- Loading equipment not available at the site
- Permit and routing restrictions for tall loads
How THC dispatch helps
- Find loads that fit your deck lengths and height clearance
- Confirm dimensions, weight and securement before booking
- Check routes and permit needs with the broker
- Coordinate pickup and delivery access
Check before accepting a load
- Freight height, length, width and weight
- Which deck it goes on and whether ramps are needed
- Permits and route restrictions
- Loading method at both ends
General industry information. Weight, dimensions, permits and endorsements are checked for each load against current rules.
Step Deck dispatch pricing
Same two options for every truck type. You choose.
5%
of the rate confirmation total (linehaul + fuel surcharge)
$250
per week, only for weeks we book at least one load
No contract. Accessorials such as detention, layover, TONU and lumper are not included in the 5%. Compare both options with an example week.
Start step deck dispatch
A dispatcher contacts you to talk through your lanes and loads. Asking costs nothing.
Step Deck dispatch questions
When is a step deck better than a flatbed?
When the freight is too tall to stay under legal height on a flatbed. The lower deck gives extra clearance.
Can step deck freight still need permits?
Yes. If the freight is over legal width, length, height or weight, permits are still required. We confirm this before you book.
How is the dispatch fee calculated?
You choose one: 5% of the rate confirmation total (linehaul + fuel surcharge), or $250 per week, only for weeks we book at least one load. Accessorials such as detention, layover, TONU and lumper are not included in the 5%.
Are loads or rates guaranteed?
No. Load availability, rates, accessorial approvals and payment timing depend on the market, the broker and the agreements for each load.
Who approves each load?
You do. We don't book a load without your OK.