OPEN DECK SERVICES

Freight Coordination that Handles

the Heavy Stuff

We specialize in managing complex open deck shipments across North America—connecting the right equipment, permits, and partners so your cargo moves safely and on time.

OPEN DECK SERVICES

Freight Coordination that Handles

the Heavy Stuff

We specialize in managing complex open deck shipments across North America—connecting the right equipment, permits, and partners so your cargo moves safely and on time.

Moving What Others Can’t:

Open Deck Services

Open deck transportation refers to any freight that requires flatbed-style trailers—such as flatbeds, step decks, or double drops—due to its size, shape, or handling needs. It’s the go-to solution when standard dry vans aren’t an option and your cargo demands specialized loading, clearance, or securement.

Whether you’re moving steel coils, industrial machinery, construction components, or oversized freight, open deck logistics demands precision. The stakes are high: wrong equipment, poor securing, missed permits, or route miscalculations can lead to damage, delays, or major fines.

At Tradelink Logistics, we don’t guess—we coordinate. Our team designs and manages the full open deck strategy, from equipment matching to cross-border documentation, giving you total control without the operational chaos.

Open Deck Freight Demands Strategy

Not Just Trailers

Too many 3PLs treat open deck shipping like standard freight—until it fails. In reality, every open deck shipment is its own project.

We evaluate your load’s dimensions, weight, risk level, and routing requirements. Then we source and coordinate the exact trailer type, carrier, permits, and handling plan it needs. You get execution without confusion, and visibility without chasing updates.

What You Risk Without the

Right Shipping Partner

Open deck freight is high-exposure—literally. Improper planning can lead to major incidents. Here's how we protect your cargo and your reputation:

  • Improper Equipment Use: We ensure your load is matched to the correct trailer type and configuration.

  • Permit & Regulatory Gaps: We manage regional, state, and federal permit coordination between USA-MEX-CAN.

  • Load Security Errors: We work only with specialized carriers trained in strapping, tarping, and compliance protocols-meaning they focus exclusively on open deck operations.

  • Cross-Border Delays: Our bilingual team navigates customs and border inspections proactively, reducing downtime.

Explore the Open Deck Trailers

We Specialize In

Open deck freight isn’t one-size-fits-all. We help you choose the exact trailer your cargo needs—no guessing, no compromises.

FLATBED TRAILERS

Reliable. Versatile. Widely Available.

Flatbeds are the go-to for most standard open deck freight. They’re ideal for loads that are too wide or irregular for dry vans but don’t exceed height restrictions.

  • Best for: Palletized goods, steel products, lumber, containers, construction materials.

  • Access: Loadable from the top, sides, or rear—maximizing flexibility at origin and destination.

  • Length & Capacity: Typically 48’–53’, supporting up to 48,000 lbs.

  • Why it matters: Flatbeds are the most cost-effective option when your cargo doesn’t need special clearance or contouring. We ensure proper securement and tarping to protect your load in transit.

STEPDECK TRAILERS

Built for Height. Ready for Complexity.

Stepdecks feature a lower deck height, making them ideal for taller equipment that exceeds flatbed height limits but doesn’t need full double drop clearance.

  • Best for: Mid-sized machinery, crated equipment, generators.

  • Access: Same flexibility as flatbeds, with added vertical clearance.

  • Deck Configuration: Upper deck + lower deck (usually 42’ lower, 11’ upper).

  • Why it matters: We recommend stepdecks when height is an issue, but special permits or escorts aren’t yet required. This keeps costs lower while maintaining compliance.

DOUBLE DROP TRAILERS

For the Tallest, Heaviest, Most Demanding Loads.

Double drops include a center “well” section designed to carry ultra-tall freight that would otherwise exceed legal height limits.

  • Best for: Industrial equipment, transformers, tanks, structural components.

  • Deck Structure: Front deck, low center well (drop), rear deck—often customized.

  • Height Advantage: Allows up to ~11.5’ or 12’ clearance without triggering overheight permits (varies by region).

  • Why it matters: These moves often require detailed planning, escorts, and permits. We coordinate all of it—including equipment matching, route engineering, and compliance—with carriers experienced in high-exposure hauls.