Hauling oversized or overweight cargo isn’t just about power—it’s about precision. The right trailer can mean the difference between a smooth delivery and a costly delay. Whether you’re transporting industrial equipment, large machinery, or modular buildings, you need to understand your options. In this guide, we break down the main types of heavy haul trailers, their strengths, and when to use each one.
Why Trailer Type Matters in Heavy Haul
Heavy haul trucking isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different loads require different trailer specs to comply with height, weight, and safety regulations. Choosing the wrong trailer can lead to fines, road hazards, or even cargo damage. That’s why it’s crucial to know your trailer types—especially if you’re expanding your fleet or bidding on specialized freight.
1. Low Profile Step Deck Trailers
Best for: Tall equipment like excavators, cranes, or wind turbine components
Deck Height: 30–38 inches
Load Capacity: Up to 80,000 lbs (varies with axles)
Low profile step decks offer extra clearance for tall loads by lowering the trailer’s deck closer to the ground. This allows operators to move taller machinery without exceeding DOT height limits.
Pros
✔ Excellent height clearance
✔ Safer center of gravity
✔ More stable during high-speed hauling
Cons
✘ Smaller tires wear faster (17.5″ or 19.5″)
✘ Less tire availability on remote routes
Explore step deck trailers on Interstate365.com
2. Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers
Best for: Bulldozers, pavers, and self-propelled machines
Deck Height: 18–24 inches
Load Capacity: Up to 150,000+ lbs (with multi-axle configs)
RGN trailers feature a detachable front gooseneck, allowing heavy equipment to be driven directly onto the trailer. They’re ideal for transporting machines that can’t be craned or winched onto a trailer.
Pros
✔ Drive-on loading = no ramps needed
✔ Flexible axle configurations for extreme loads
✔ Efficient for high-frequency jobs
Cons
✘ More expensive than other trailer types
✘ Heavier empty weight
3. Extendable Trailers (Stretch Trailers)
Best for: Long cargo like bridge beams, tanks, and windmill blades
Base Length: Starts at 48′ or 53′ and extends up to 80’+
Extendable trailers are built to stretch—literally. They accommodate unusually long items that exceed legal limits for standard trailers, minimizing overhang and maximizing balance.
Pros
✔ Versatile length for oversized loads
✔ Reduces the need for escorts on shorter loads
✔ Great for modular construction and infrastructure projects
Cons
✘ More maintenance due to moving parts
✘ Not ideal for frequent tight turns or urban roads
4. Multi-Axle Trailers
Best for: Super loads that exceed 80,000 lbs GVWR
Axles: 4 to 13+ axles depending on jurisdiction
When a job demands extreme weight capacity, multi-axle trailers rise to the challenge. These configurations are built with additional axles to distribute heavy loads and meet bridge formula laws.
Pros
✔ Legally haul ultra-heavy equipment
✔ Better weight distribution
✔ Customizable per load requirements
Cons
✘ Requires specialized permits in every state
✘ Lower maneuverability
5. Double Drop Trailers
Best for: Tall cargo like transformers, tanks, or construction equipment
Deck Height: ~18 inches (middle well)
Overall Length: Typically 48′ with ~29′ well space
Double drops have two drops: one after the gooseneck and another before the rear axles, creating a low center section ideal for very tall freight.
Pros
✔ Accommodates up to 11’6″ height
✔ Safer transport for fragile oversized cargo
✔ Good for city deliveries of tall units
Cons
✘ Limited usable space due to a short well
✘ Not suitable for long or wide cargo
Visual Recap: Heavy Haul Trailer Comparison
| Trailer Type | Best Use Case | Load Capacity | Height Clearance | Loading Method |
| Low Profile Step Deck | Tall equipment | 40k–80k lbs | ~10-11 ft | Rear or crane |
| RGN | Self-propelled machinery | Up to 150k lbs | ~12 ft | Drive-on |
| Extendable | Long structural loads | Varies | ~10 ft | Rear/crane |
| Multi-Axle | Super heavy cargo | 100k+ lbs | ~10 ft | Depends on type |
| Double Drop | Very tall items | ~40k–70k lbs | ~11.5 ft | Rear/crane |
Things to Consider When Choosing a Heavy Haul Trailer
- Legal Load Limits: Consider federal and state regulations on GVWR, axle group spacing, and height.
- Route Restrictions: Urban roads, bridges, and tunnels can limit trailer usability.
- Permits: Oversize/overweight loads usually require state permits, pilot cars, or route planning.
- Load Characteristics: Know your cargo’s weight, dimensions, center of gravity, and load points.
Types of Heavy Haul Trailers – Final Considerations
Understanding heavy haul trailer types helps you choose the right tool for the job. From low profile step decks to extendable and multi-axle solutions, there’s a trailer designed to match your cargo’s shape, size, and weight. Making the right choice improves safety, reduces costs, and keeps you compliant with transportation laws.
Need help picking the right trailer for your fleet or next job?
🚛 View heavy haul trailers on Interstate365.com
