Shipper & Customer Education
What’s Pulling Your Freight? A Guide to Trailer Types
May 27, 2026When it comes to shipping freight, there is no one-size-fits-all. The type of trailer used can significantly affect how efficiently, safely, and effectively a shipment can be transported.
At Sunline, we know that choosing the right trailer is just as important as choosing the right carrier. Here’s a look at some of the most common trailer types and the kinds of freight they’re built to handle.
FLATBED TRAILERS
Flatbed trailers are one of the most versatile trailer types you might see out on the road. With an open deck and no sides or roof, they offer maximum flexibility for loading and unloading freight from virtually any angle.
Because flatbeds can accommodate cargo that is oversized, irregularly shaped, or too large for dry van, they are a popular choice across many industries, such as steel and metal, lumber and building materials, and large palletized freight.
STEP DECK TRAILERS
Sometimes, freight is simply too tall for a standard flatbed. That’s where step decks trailers really shine.
Also known as drop decks, step deck trailers feature two deck levels, allowing taller cargo to ride lower to the ground while remaining within legal height limits. This makes them ideal for transporting equipment and machinery that would otherwise require special permits on a standard flatbed.
For freight that needs a little more vertical clearance, step decks provide an efficient solution.
DOUBLE DROP TRAILERS
When freight exceeds the height limits of both flatbed and step deck trailers, double drop trailers offer another option.
These trailers feature a lower center section, often referred to as a “well,” which allows extremely tall cargo to be transported safely and legally. Their unique design makes them ideal for moving oversized industrial and construction equipment.
For specialized freight that requires extra height accommodations, double drops are a preferred choice.
REMOVABLE GOOSENECK (RGN) TRAILERS
Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers are specifically designed for transporting heavy, oversized equipment.
What sets an RGN apart is its detachable front sections, which create a ramp that allows machinery to be driven directly onto the trailer. This eliminates the use of extra equipment for loading and unloading, such as cranes or other specialized equipment, and significantly streamlines the loading process.
Providing both convenience and efficiency, RGN trailers are commonly used for specialized construction equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or tractors.
CONESTOGA TRAILERS
Some freight requires protection from weather and road debris, but still benefits from the loading flexibility of a flatbed. Featuring a retractable tarp system that slides open and closed, Conestoga trailers allow freight to be loaded from the top, sides, or rear while keeping cargo protected throughout transport.
Industries often use Conestoga trailers for high-value freight, weather-sensitive materials, or finished steel products. They offer the ease of loading and protection.
HOT SHOT TRAILERS
When time is of the essence, a hot shot trailer is an excellent choice.
Typically pulled by heavy-duty pickup trucks, hot shot trailers are designed for smaller, expedited shipments that need to move quickly. They provide greater flexibility and faster response times than standard semi-truck services.
Common hot shot freight includes construction materials, small machinery, or specialized equipment.
Why Choosing the Right Trailer Matters
Every shipment requires attention to detail. Selecting the proper trailer helps to ensure freight arrives safely, securely, and moves as efficiently as possible.
Whether you’re shipping steel on a flatbed, heavy equipment on an RGN, or weather-sensitive products on a Conestoga, matching freight to the right trailer is critical to a successful delivery.
At Sunline, we help customers navigate these decisions every day. Our team works closely with our network of drivers to identify the best equipment for each load, ensuring reliable service from pick up to delivery.
Connect with Us for Your Logistic Needs
No matter the size, weight, or complexity of your freight, we have the experience and network to get it where it is going. Contact our team today to learn more about our logistics solutions and how we can support your next shipment!