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Understanding the Basics
Lowboy (Lowbed/Double Drop)
Designed for tall, top-heavy equipment with a recessed well that provides low center of gravity and maximum height clearance.
Best for: Excavators, dozers, pavers, any equipment over 10'2"
Step Deck (Drop Deck)
Two-level design offering extended deck space while maintaining reasonable height limits for versatile hauling.
Best for: Long loads, mixed freight, equipment under 10'2"
Quick Decision Rule
If more than 60% of your loads exceed 10'2" in height, choose a lowboy. Otherwise, a step deck offers more versatility for daily operations.
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Specification | Lowboy | Step Deck |
|---|---|---|
| Deck/Well Height | 18-24" (recessed well) | Lower: 36-42", Upper: ~60" |
| Primary Deck Length | Well: 24-29.6 ft | Lower deck: 37-43 ft |
| Standard Width | 8'6" (102") | 8'6" (102") |
| Max Legal Cargo Height | Up to 11'6" | ~10'2" |
| Loading Method | RGN front drive-on | Rear ramps, dock loading |
| Permit Frequency | Lower for tall loads | Higher for tall loads |
Weight Capacity & Axle Configurations
Lowboy Capacities
- 2-axle: ~40,000 lbs
- 3-axle: 60,000-80,000 lbs
- Multi-axle RGN: 80,000-150,000+ lbs
Best for: Concentrated heavy loads in shorter deck space
Step Deck Capacities
- 2-axle: ~48,000 lbs
- Tri-axle: 60,000+ lbs
Best for: Longer, distributed freight loads
Load Distribution & Weight Management
Federal Weight Limits
- Maximum Gross: 80,000 lbs (truck + trailer + load)
- Typical Payload: 43,000-48,000 lbs after truck/trailer weight
- Axle Limits: 12,000 lbs steer, 34,000 lbs tandem drive
Load Positioning Best Practices
- Even Distribution: Spread weight across all axles
- Center of Gravity: Keep loads low and centered
- Axle Loading: Never exceed individual axle limits
When to Choose Each Trailer Type
Choose Lowboy When:
- Load exceeds 10'2" height
- Concentrated weight in small footprint
- Maximum legal height clearance needed
- Heavy equipment with high center of gravity
Choose Step Deck When:
- Load is under 10'2" height
- Weight distributed over longer length
- Mixed freight or multiple pieces
- More versatile loading options needed
DOT Heights & Permit Requirements
Height Regulations
Most states limit total vehicle height to 13'6"-14'0". Exceeding these limits requires overheight permits and potentially pilot cars.
Permit Basics
Standard Permits
- Cost: $15-$75 per permit
- Processing: 24-72 hours
- Requirements: Route-specific
When Permits Required
- Total height exceeds 13'6" (most states)
- Overweight loads above 80,000 lbs
- Wide loads exceeding 8'6" width
Important: Always verify current regulations with your state DOT before transport.
Height Calculator
Real-World Applications
Construction
Lowboy Applications
- Excavators (tall cabs)
- Bulldozers & dozers
- Road pavers
- Compacting rollers
- Large cranes
Step Deck Applications
- Compact backhoes
- Skid steer loaders
- Material bundles
- Small construction tools
- Prefab building components
Agriculture
Lowboy Applications
- Combine harvesters
- Large tractors (high cabs)
- Tall hay balers
- Cotton pickers
- Self-propelled sprayers
Step Deck Applications
- Compact tractors
- Disc harrows & plows
- Seed drills
- Feed mixers
- Agricultural supplies
Industrial
Lowboy Applications
- Large compressors
- Industrial generators
- Drilling equipment
- Heavy pumps
- Tall processing equipment
Step Deck Applications
- Long steel skids
- Pipe sections
- Modular components
- Machinery parts
- Industrial supplies
Investment Analysis & Total Cost of Ownership
Purchase Prices
| Type | Standard Range | Heavy-Duty Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lowboy | $85,000 - $140,000 | Up to $250,000 |
| Step Deck | $65,000 - $95,000 | Up to $150,000 |
Daily Rental Rates
- Lowboy: $200-$600/day
- Step Deck: $150-$400/day
- Factors: Location, season, specifications
Rentals are ideal for seasonal or occasional use
Need to rent instead of buy?
Explore Rental OptionsAnnual Ownership Costs
- Insurance: $1,500-$3,000/year
- Maintenance: $2,000-$5,000/year
- Tires: $3,000-$6,000 every 2-3 years
- Storage: $600-$2,400/year
ROI Break-Even Example
For a $120,000 lowboy used 150 days/year, daily ownership cost is approximately $300 (including depreciation, financing, insurance, and maintenance). If local rental rates average $225/day, ownership becomes cost-effective above 150 days of annual use.
Loading Methods & Safety Protocols
Lowboy Loading
RGN Loading Advantages
- Detachable Neck: Enables low-angle drive-on access
- Stability: Lower center of gravity improves transport safety
- Ground Protection: Front loading reduces ground pressure damage
- Heavy Equipment: Ideal for self-propelled machinery
- Precision Loading: Minimal ground preparation required
Best for: Heavy, tall equipment that can drive onto the trailer
Step Deck Loading
Ramp Loading Advantages
- Rear Ramps: Easy drive-on access for most equipment
- Dock Loading: Level loading at warehouse docks
- Ground Clearance: Better performance over rough terrain
- Versatile Access: Forklift and crane loading options
- Multiple Pieces: Efficient for mixed cargo loads
Best for: Mixed loads, materials, and equipment under 10'2"
Safety Checklist
- Verify securement points and chain ratings
- Check route restrictions and bridge clearances
- Re-measure height after loading
- Inspect tie-downs before departure
- Plan for pilot car requirements
Route Planning Essentials
Always verify bridge heights, construction zones, and time restrictions before transport. Some routes may have seasonal restrictions or require specific permits for oversized loads.
Making the Right Choice
Choose Lowboy When:
- 60%+ of loads exceed 10'2" height
- Hauling concentrated heavy equipment
- Frequent transport of tall machinery
- Need front drive-on capability
- Stability is critical for top-heavy loads
Choose Step Deck When:
- Most loads under 10'2" height
- Need extended deck length
- Hauling mixed/distributed freight
- Require dock-level loading
- Want maximum versatility
Still Unsure? Take Our Interactive Quiz
Answer a few questions about your hauling needs and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most states allow 13'6" total height, with some permitting up to 14'0". Check your specific state DOT website for current regulations and oversize permit requirements, as these can vary by route and jurisdiction.
Likely yes. Step deck legal cargo height is approximately 10'2", so a 10'10" machine would exceed standard limits. A lowboy might keep you under permit requirements for this height.
Yes, a tri-axle step deck can typically handle 60,000+ lbs depending on specifications. Always verify the exact weight rating on the trailer's VIN/data plate and ensure proper load distribution.
RGNs are valuable when you frequently need front drive-on loading, lower approach angles, and maximum cargo height clearance. They're especially beneficial for dozers, excavators, and pavers that are difficult to load from the rear.
New trailers offer warranties, latest safety features, and known maintenance history but cost 30-50% more. Used trailers provide immediate availability and lower cost but require thorough inspection for wear, structural integrity, and remaining service life.
Ready to Make Your Decision?
Our trailer specialists can help match the right equipment to your specific hauling needs and budget.
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