Flatbedders/Stepdeckers

Problem with 53 foot step when top deck was 10 feet. Needed 48 foot for 24 foot long Sheetrock. Didn’t want to load me. I had a load leveler and made two more out of 4x4s.

 

Same issue with hauling steel. Wanted 48 continues and only had 43 since top deck was 10 foot. Always would choose step over a flat for the simple fact that it’s closer to the ground.

 

I have 53’ flat, no one has turned me away for it.

However, Have gotten a few jobs just because it is 53’ vs 48’ for certain loads.

 

That doesn't make any sense that they would turn you away for having to much space.

What am I missing here?

I'm in the market for 2 new steps and I've wanted the larger trailers personally.

 

If I had my way, there'd be a 53ft step behind my truck, but since I run a company trailer, its a 48 flat lol.

12ft sheetrock can be loaded taller in 36ft lengths. 8ft drop tarps should still cover it.

Edit: And if you're screwing around running cheap sheetrock on a stepdeck, you're doing it wrong.

 

It has been few and far between, have lost a few loads having a 53 flat. Mostly due to locations. They had length restrictions. One Oregon steel mill will not load on bridges.

The problems you can run into are axle positions and weights. If you plan on running states like California, Florida, Connecticut and a few others, you have KPRA to deal with. Your choices are a slide axle setup that is open spread or a tandem. When in tandem position, your weight drops to 34k. The other is to have a fixed axle. You can get it as a 40 ft KPRA or long set. If you go long set, no California. You can permit in Florida.

With a fixed 40 KPRA or a tandem, the last 8 feet can be problematic as it effects the axles. Actually all axle groups. Going to much beyond the rear trailer axle will transfer to steers as well as reduced drives.