Mercer orientation

I'm ready to pull the trigger on the deal tomorrow but I didn't want to make a bad business decision and regret making my truck any LONGER than is already is.....considering my 300+ wheel base. Someone needs to make an auto-shrink truck...LOL

 

Stay away from Tempe, AZ for next several hours: Recycling plant caught fire, unfortunately Swift trailer was right in the middle of this mess in Tempe, AZ yesterday. Unknown origin of fire.

 

Go 51ft because some places need at least 10ft deck and others want a 40ft bottom. Get best of both worlds

 

Keep in mind, many states will require a permit for anything over 75 ft bumper to bumper. Might want to look into 8 top 40 bottom drops if it will keep you under 75 ft. Besides, from the guys i know that pull drop decks here, they say 99.999 percent of the loads for drop decks don't use the top. Most often that will be used for partial add ons.

Edit to add... check with a permitting service, you may not be able to permit loads if you are already permitted for over all length.

 

Thanks Spyder. I used to run SD here at Mercer back in 2010, I'm merely re-joining my Mercer family after running under my own authority and working in the oil field.
You are correct, to an extent. I've used my top deck plenty of times: Tie down vehicles, stack light weight freight from nose to tail, stack large plastic drainage pre-forms, hauled crusher bars for a huge metal recycling machine on my top deck, used the top deck for over flow when the bottom filled up. The majority of my freight was / is 28k and under so I can use my space evenly, therefore I don't fall into the 99.999 percent of people who don't use their upper deck.

A portion of my upper deck space (when empty) is used as a large dining table when I cook dinner in the sleeper. I like to sit on the bottom deck when the weather is nice; one of my favorite uses for the upper deck. I enjoy my time on the road, it's like going RVing across this beautiful country. I've met amazing people and seen beautiful things in my quest. The journey continues.....

Be safe.

 

Anyone interested in a 2007 Pete Flat Top with 3 Cabinet Headache Rack 594K miles ....$69,500
Cummins ISX 18 speed, 3.70 rears.

 

Hey gang...wound up wih a nice 2017 Trans Craft 48x102 Aluminum/steel combo Step Deck with 2 tool boxes installed, free delivery to Louisville KY, delivery set for 3-31-16.

Matt at Renos Trailer Sales in Belle Vernon, PA worked the deal with professionalism and style.
I'll be in town for the truck show, save me a spot in the yard if any of y'all get there before me...LOL.....Be safe...Robert.

 

Question for FLAT BED drivers: I ran there with Mercer in 2010 with a SD. I did very well because, like now, I have my tractor paid off. I'm thinking about switching over to Flatbed and possibly not making this step deck purchase because I was told Mercer doesn't have all that much SD freight in 2016 and forward. Being a reasonable and prudent businessman, I always perform due diligence and research what current trends are currently.

I remember last time (2010) there was more FB than SD freight...but I was fortunate enough to always find a load of Step deck freight. Has all that much changed since 2010 here? Is Mercer's freight lanes predominantly FB and van? If anyone can help me make an informed decision, I would like to listen. I'd be very grateful.

Robert
Phoenix, AZ

 

Honestly i think it's a wash if you look long term. Step deck freight is down right now, but so is all freight.

 

Thx spyder....I think I might just save the $$ and get a flat from Mercer...