Open Deck Transportation Solutions

Open deck trailers—including flatbeds, step-decks, and specialty configurations—are essential for cargo that can’t fit or shouldn’t be loaded into enclosed trailers. Whether you’re shipping construction materials, heavy machinery, dimensional lumber, or industrial equipment, Quality Wheels brings the expertise and equipment to handle your open deck freight safely and efficiently.

What is Open Deck Freight?

Open deck freight refers to cargo transported on trailers without sides or roofs, allowing for:

• Top and side loading — Load with cranes, forklifts, or overhead equipment
• Oversized dimensions — Cargo wider or taller than enclosed trailer limits
• Irregular shapes — Equipment, machinery, or materials that don’t fit standard enclosures
• Heavy equipment — Self-propelled machinery that can drive onto trailers
• Easy securing — Multiple tie-down points accessible from all sides

Types of Open Deck Trailers

Flatbed Trailers

The most versatile open deck option, flatbed trailers feature a completely flat, open platform.

Specifications:

• Length: 48 feet or 53 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet (102 inches)
• Deck Height: 5 feet from ground
• Capacity: Up to 48,000 lbs
• Deck Material: Hardwood or composite decking

Best for:

• Construction materials (lumber, drywall, roofing)
• Steel products (beams, coils, sheets)
• Building materials (bricks, blocks, pavers)
• Machinery that fits within legal height (13’6″ including trailer deck)
• Bundled or palletized cargo
• Anything requiring top or side loading

Features:

• Multiple tie-down points (winches, d-rings, rub rails)
• Air-ride suspension for freight protection
• Aluminum or steel construction
• Tarping capability for weather protection

Step-Deck (Drop-Deck) Trailers

Step-deck trailers feature an upper deck and a lower deck, reducing overall height by 3-4 feet.

Specifications:

• Upper deck: ~11 feet
• Lower deck (well): 37-42 feet
• Well height from ground: 18-24 inches (3-4 feet lower than flatbed)
• Capacity: Up to 48,000 lbs
• Overall length: 48-53 feet

Best for:

• Tall cargo that would exceed 13’6″ height on standard flatbed
• Construction equipment (excavators, loaders)
• Industrial machinery
• Tall crates or palletized cargo
• Reducing or avoiding oversize permits for tall loads

Height advantage example:

• Flatbed deck: 5 feet + 10-foot cargo = 15 feet overall (oversize)
• Step-deck well: 1.5 feet + 10-foot cargo = 11.5 feet overall (legal)

Conestoga (Curtain-Side) Trailers

Combines flatbed versatility with enclosed trailer protection via rolling tarp curtains.

Specifications:

• Length: 53 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet (interior)
• Height: 8-9 feet interior clearance
• Capacity: Up to 45,000 lbs

Best for:

• Freight requiring weather protection but needing side loading
• High-value cargo requiring security
• Products sensitive to moisture or UV
• Situations where tarping is impractical or prohibited

Advantages:

• Opens from sides and/or top for crane/forklift access
• Roll-back curtain system (no climbing on loads)
• Faster loading/unloading than manual tarping
• Weather protection comparable to dry van
• Can be loaded like flatbed or dry van

Specialized Open Deck Equipment

For cargo beyond standard flatbed capabilities, we coordinate:

Double-Drop (RGN) Trailers — For very tall or heavy equipment (see Overweight & Over-Dimensional Shipments)

Extendable Trailers — For extra-long cargo exceeding 48-53 feet

Multi-Axle Heavy Haul — For loads exceeding 48,000 lbs

Industries We Serve

Construction & Building Materials

Materials we transport:

• Dimensional lumber and engineered wood products
• Drywall, plywood, and sheathing
• Roofing materials (shingles, metal roofing)
• Siding, trim, and finishing materials
• Concrete and masonry products
• Windows, doors, and building components

Why choose open deck:

• Materials are weather-resistant or tarped
• Requires top-loading with forklifts or cranes
• High volume and weight fit flatbed capacity
• Easy securing with straps and chains

Steel & Metal Products

Products we haul:

• Structural steel (I-beams, channels, angles)
• Steel coils and sheets
• Aluminum products
• Metal pipes and tubing
• Rebar and wire mesh
• Metal roofing and siding

Specialized securement:

• Coil racks for steel coils
• Edge protectors to prevent strap damage
• Heavy-duty chains rated for steel weight
• Proper weight distribution to meet axle limits

Machinery & Equipment

Equipment we transport:

• Construction equipment (loaders, excavators, skid steers)
• Agricultural equipment (tractors, implements, harvesting equipment)
• Industrial machinery (production equipment, generators, compressors)
• HVAC units and commercial equipment
• Forklifts and material handling equipment

Handling capabilities:

• Drive-on/drive-off for self-propelled equipment
• Crane loading for non-mobile machinery
• Specialized securement for odd shapes
• Step-deck for tall equipment

Manufacturing & Industrial

Freight types:

• Production equipment and tooling
• Fabricated components and assemblies
• Industrial tanks and vessels
• Electrical equipment and transformers
• Paper rolls and industrial materials
• Custom manufactured items

Energy & Infrastructure

Project freight:

• Utility poles and crossarms
• Pipeline sections and fittings
• Solar panels and racking systems
• Electrical equipment for substations
• HVAC units for commercial buildings
• Structural components for infrastructure projects

Professional Cargo Securement

The most critical aspect of open deck transportation is proper load securement. Improperly secured cargo can shift, become damaged, or even fall from the trailer—creating safety hazards and liability issues.

FMCSA Securement Regulations

Quality Wheels’ drivers follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) cargo securement rules (49 CFR Part 393):

Working Load Limits (WLL):

• Minimum aggregate WLL of tie-downs must equal at least 50% of cargo weight
• Each tie-down must have WLL rating clearly marked
• Edge protection required where straps contact cargo edges

Number of Tie-Downs:

• Cargo ≤5 feet long: Minimum 1 tie-down
• Cargo 5-10 feet long: Minimum 2 tie-downs
• Cargo >10 feet long: Minimum 2 tie-downs + 1 additional per 10 feet
• Additional tie-downs for cargo that might roll, tip, or shift

Securement Methods:

• Direct tie-down (over the top)
• Indirect tie-down (blocks and braces preventing movement)
• Combination of methods based on cargo characteristics

Securement Equipment & Techniques

Chains & Binders

• Grade 70 transport chains (rated for high tensile strength)
• Load binders (ratchet or lever type) for tightening
• Ideal for steel, heavy machinery, and industrial equipment
• Multiple attachment points for proper angles

Ratchet Straps

• 4-inch heavy-duty straps with 5,400+ lb WLL
• Ratchet mechanism for secure tensioning
• Edge protectors prevent damage to webbing
• Ideal for lumber, building materials, and palletized cargo

Edge Protection

• Rubber, plastic, or hardwood edge protectors
• Prevent strap/chain damage from sharp edges
• Protect cargo from securement equipment
• Required per FMCSA when edges could damage straps

Blocking & Bracing

• Wood blocks, lumber, or metal braces prevent movement
• Particularly important for cargo that can roll (coils, pipes)
• Creates immobilization using trailer structure

Tarps & Covers

• Heavy-duty vinyl or poly tarps for weather protection
• Lumber tarps, steel tarps, coil tarps (sized for specific cargo)
• Secured with bungees or straps to prevent flapping
• Protects from rain, road debris, and UV exposure

Load Distribution & Weight

Proper weight distribution ensures:

• Compliance with axle weight limits
• Safe handling and braking
• Reduced tire and suspension wear
• Legal operation on all roads

Key considerations:

• Kingpin weight: 12,000-13,000 lbs typical limit
• Drive axle weight: 34,000 lbs tandem axle limit
• Trailer axle weight: 34,000 lbs tandem axle limit
• Gross vehicle weight: 80,000 lbs maximum (unless permitted)

Our drivers use load calculation tools to ensure optimal weight distribution before securing cargo.

Inspection & Maintenance

Pre-Trip Inspection:

• Check all tie-down equipment for damage or wear
• Verify deck condition (no protruding nails, damaged boards)
• Ensure proper equipment for specific cargo

During Transit:

• Stop within first 50 miles to recheck securement
• Additional checks every 150 miles or 3 hours
• Immediate stop if any signs of loosening or shifting

Post-Trip Inspection:

• Document cargo condition upon delivery
• Verify securement equipment returned intact
• Note any damage or issues for improvement

Open Deck Service Process

Step 1: Quote Request

Provide us with:

• Cargo description and dimensions (L x W x H)
• Weight (total and per piece if multiple items)
• Pickup and delivery locations
• Loading/unloading equipment available?
• Tarping or special securement needs?
• Timeline requirements

Step 2: Equipment & Route Planning

We determine:

• Best trailer type (flatbed vs. step-deck vs. specialized)
• Tarping requirements for weather protection
• Loading/unloading coordination needs
• Route planning (permits if oversize)
• Estimated transit time

Step 3: Pickup & Loading

Our driver coordinates:

• Arrival time with your facility
• Crane or forklift loading supervision
• Proper load positioning for weight distribution
• Professional securement per FMCSA standards
• Tarping if required
• Photo documentation before departure

Step 4: Transportation with Visibility

During transit you receive:

• Real-time GPS tracking via Guaranteed Shipment Visibility
• Proactive updates on progress
• Immediate notification of any issues
• Access to driver contact for coordination

Step 5: Delivery & Unloading

Professional delivery includes:

• Coordination with receiving facility
• Scheduled delivery appointment
• Safe unloading supervision
• Cargo inspection and documentation
• Electronic Proof of Delivery (POD)

Weather Protection & Tarping

When to Tarp Your Load

Tarping recommended for:

• Materials sensitive to moisture (lumber, drywall, paper products)
• Finished products requiring cleanliness
• Cargo susceptible to road debris or dirt
• Customer requirements for covered freight
• Long-distance hauls through variable weather

Tarping not typically needed for:

• Steel products (already weather-resistant)
• Machinery and equipment designed for outdoor use
• Masonry and concrete products
• Loads traveling short distances in good weather

Types of Tarps

Lumber Tarps — Sized for lumber bundles and building materials Steel Tarps — Heavy-duty tarps for steel and metal products Coil Tarps — Specialty tarps designed to wrap steel coils Smoke Tarps — Full-coverage tarps for complete protection Machinery Tarps — Large tarps for equipment and oversized items

Professional Tarping Service

Quality Wheels’ drivers are trained in safe tarping techniques:

• Proper tarp positioning and securing
• Bungee and strap usage to prevent flapping
• Safe tarping methods (no walking on unstable loads)
• Quick tarping/untarping at destination

Tarping fees: Typically $50-150 depending on load size and tarp type (included in quote)

Open Deck Pricing Factors

Open deck rates vary based on several factors:

Distance & Route: Mileage and route complexity Equipment Type: Step-deck costs more than standard flatbed Tarping Requirements: Additional labor and materials Loading/Unloading: Specialized equipment or assistance needed Weight & Dimensions: Heavier or larger cargo affects rates Market Conditions: Seasonal demand and capacity availability Special Requirements: Expedited service, team drivers, etc.

Request your customized quote: Every load is unique. We provide transparent, competitive pricing tailored to your specific needs.

Safety & Compliance

Driver Qualification

Open deck drivers require specialized skills:

• CDL Class A License with clean driving record
• Open deck experience — Minimum 2 years preferred
• Securement training — FMCSA compliance certification
• Load calculation — Understanding weight distribution
• Tarping proficiency — Safe and effective techniques

Fleet Maintenance

Our open deck fleet undergoes:

• Regular deck inspections (replace damaged boards immediately)
• Tie-down point inspection and reinforcement
• Suspension and brake system maintenance
• DOT-required annual inspections
• Pre-trip inspections before every load

Insurance & Liability

Coverage provided:

• $1M cargo insurance (higher limits available)
• $1M general liability coverage
• Workers’ compensation for driver injuries
• Coverage for loading/unloading if coordinated by Quality Wheels

Combining Open Deck with Other Services

Dedicated Lanes

For recurring open deck shipments, our Dedicated Lanes service provides:

• Guaranteed flatbed capacity on your schedule
• Consistent driver and equipment
• Optimized pricing for regular routes
• Simplified coordination

Drop Trailer Service

Need flexible loading time? Drop Trailer & Trailer Pool for flatbeds:

• Drop empty flatbed at your facility
• Load on your schedule
• Pick up pre-loaded trailer
• Eliminates driver wait time and detention fees

Supply Chain Optimization

Incorporate open deck into your overall logistics strategy with Supply Chain Consultations:

• Optimize flatbed vs. dry van decisions
• Consolidate shipments for efficiency
• Seasonal capacity planning
• Carrier mix strategy

Why Choose Quality Wheels for Open Deck?

Performance You Can Count On

• 98.2% on-time delivery — Among the highest in the industry
• 100% tender acceptance — Capacity when you need it
• Award-winning service — World’s Greatest Trucking Company (2025)

Experienced, Professional Drivers

Our drivers bring expertise in:

• Proper load securement techniques
• Safe tarping procedures
• Weight distribution and load balance
• Customer service and communication

Modern, Well-Maintained Equipment

• Late-model tractors with current safety features
• Well-maintained flatbed and step-deck trailers
• Complete securement equipment inventory
• Quality tarps and weather protection

Technology-Enabled Service

• Guaranteed Shipment Visibility — Real-time tracking
• AI-Driven & API-Integrated Logistics — Optimized routing
• Electronic documentation and POD
• Proactive communication and alerts

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you transport cargo that’s wider than 8.5 feet? Yes, but it requires oversize permits. See our Overweight & Over-Dimensional Shipments services for oversized cargo.

Do you provide loading assistance or equipment? We can coordinate crane rental, forklifts, or other loading equipment as needed (included in quote). Our drivers supervise loading but typically don’t operate customer equipment for liability reasons.

How do you protect cargo in bad weather? Professional tarping with heavy-duty tarps secured to prevent water infiltration. For extremely sensitive cargo, we recommend Conestoga trailers or enclosed dry vans.

What if my cargo is heavy but fits on a flatbed? Standard flatbeds handle up to 48,000 lbs. For heavier cargo, see our Overweight & Over-Dimensional Shipments for multi-axle heavy haul options.

Can you handle partial loads or LTL flatbed? Yes, we coordinate flatbed LTL through our carrier network when you don’t need a full trailer. This takes longer than FTL but costs less for smaller shipments.

What’s your service area for open deck? Nationwide service with particular strength in Midwest and Great Lakes regions due to our Schaumburg, IL location.

Do you offer expedited flatbed service? Yes, Standard and Expedited Cargo includes flatbed expedited options with team drivers and prioritized dispatch.

Regional Expertise

Schaumburg, IL Location 2328 Hammond Drive Suite A, Schaumburg, IL 60173

Our strategic location provides excellent access to:

• Chicago-area construction and manufacturing
• Midwest steel mills and metal fabrication
• Upper Midwest lumber and building materials
• Great Lakes ports and industrial centers
• Major interstate corridors (I-90, I-290, I-355)

Ready to Ship Your Open Deck Freight?

Trust Quality Wheels for professional flatbed service that delivers your cargo safely, securely, and on time. From construction materials to heavy machinery, our experienced team and modern equipment handle your open deck freight with expertise.

Get your flatbed quote today:

📞 Call: (847) 457-0990 📧 Email: [email protected] 🌐 Inquire: Request Flatbed Quote 📍 Location: 2328 Hammond Drive Suite A, Schaumburg, IL 60173

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