Drop deck trailers are a gold standard for versatile commercial hauling in Edmonton. These trailers are widely used in many industries for various purposes, from transporting cranes to modular homes.

If you’re wondering if a drop deck trailer suits your Edmonton business’ needs, look no further than Kingpin Trailers to assist. Our licensed sales specialists are here to help you make informed decisions on heavy haul trailers, parts, and services. Keep reading to discover what sets drop deck trailers apart from other semi-trailers and what they are used for.

What is a Drop Deck Trailer?

The drop deck trailer is an open semi-trailer characterized by its two-tiered design. The upper deck sits close to the gooseneck and is connected to the cab by a kingpin. The larger lower level, also known as the ‘main deck,’ connects to the back wheel area.

Drop deck trailers feature one of the lowest deck levels on the market. Compared to standard or flatbed trailers, the lower deck’s ground clearance is especially low at around 18-24 inches.

Drop Deck Trailer Uses

At a glance, drop deck trailers may look similar to flatbed trailers. Both have open designs with long beds and are often used to haul oversized and irregularly shaped cargo. However, drop deck trailers excel further when it comes to transporting two specific types of heavy cargo:

1. Vehicles and Machinery

Drop deck trailers sit lower than flatbed trailers, making loading and unloading vehicles and machinery significantly easier. Various ramps can be attached, allowing drivers to maneuver vehicles such as tractors, excavators, and forklifts on and off.

2. Tall Cargo

Industrial and agricultural machinery such as tractors, forklifts, and wind turbines may be too tall for flatbed trailers. Due to their low ground clearance, tall cargo can be loaded onto drop deck trailers, ensuring Alberta oversized load compliance. This clearance also provides stability through its lower center of gravity, which is ideal for taller cargo.

Types of Drop Deck Trailers

There are several different types of drop deck trailers, many of which we house in our Edmonton warehouse. Some of these trailers include:

  • Standard Drop Deck Trailer: The most common type of drop deck trailer housing two sections: the upper and main deck.
  • Detachable Gooseneck Drop Deck Trailer: This trailer features a detachable hydraulic gooseneck, making loading and unloading cargo simple.
  • Double Drop Deck Trailer: These trailers feature three sections: an upper deck, a middle deck, and a rear deck. The middle deck sits very low, making it well-suited for exceedingly tall machinery and equipment.
  • Expandable Drop Deck Trailer: This drop deck trailer has an extendable main deck, making it ideal for extra-long cargo.

With over 50 years of experience, Doonan is an industry leader in specialized trailers. For an exceptional commercial-grade drop deck trailer, look no further than the 2024 Doonan Specialized Platinum Drop Deck Trailer. With lightweight steel main beams and strong aluminum side rails, it’s a welcomed addition to any fleet!

Get in Touch with Kingpin Trailers Today

We are Western Canada’s reliable, authorized semi-trailer dealer and service provider. Whether you’re interested in investing in a vehicle, have questions about a trailer purchased through our team, or need repairs, we have you covered. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.