Step Deck Freight That Pays for Your Securement Skills
A step deck — also called a drop deck — gives you a lower deck height than a flatbed, so you can legally haul taller loads without permits that a flatbed couldn't clear. That opens the door to freight dry van and flatbed owner-operators can't touch: construction and ag equipment, industrial machinery, building materials, tractors, generators, palletized and crated freight, and dimensional loads that occasionally run over-width or over-height.
This is skilled work. Chaining, strapping, edge protection, tarping when required, and proper weight distribution are part of the job, and the right step deck loads reward that effort with stronger revenue potential than typical dry van runs. Some loads ride with permits and routing for oversized dimensions — your dispatcher helps you sort out what's involved before you commit.
Lease On and Run Under ARI's Authority
ARI is a motor carrier, not a broker. When you lease on, you run step deck freight exclusively under ARI's DOT/MC authority — you do not need your own authority, and you cannot run your own authority with us. Getting your own authority is a path that exists in the industry, but it is not what ARI offers. Because ARI moves real volume and holds established shipper and broker relationships, running under our authority opens access to better, higher-paying open-deck loads than most solo operators can secure alone.
How the Pay Works
- True 82% revenue share — you keep 82% of gross linehaul; our 18% covers dispatch, compliance, and billing.
- Same-day pay — deliver before 12:00 PM EST and submit paperwork to get paid the same business day, with no quick-pay or factoring fees.
- Zero escrow — ARI holds $0, while many carriers hold $2,500–$5,000.
- Fuel discounts up to $0.45/gallon and a 40% fuel advance at pickup.
You Choose the Loads
There's no forced dispatch. You pick your loads, routes, and home time. Your dedicated dispatcher — who carries a maximum of seven trucks — knows your lanes and negotiates rates for you. Found your own step deck load or shipper? Tell your dispatcher; ARI runs the customer's credit and, if approved, books it under our authority.
Step Deck Requirements
- CDL Class A and 25+ years old
- Sleeper semi 2000 or newer, DOT-ready
- ~2 years experience and a clean record
- Comfortable with open-deck securement
Apportioned IRP plates (all 48 states, ~$70/week), IFTA on the plate program, ELD (~$30/week), and insurance (flat ~$300/week) are available. See why owner-operators lease on with ARI, browse other trailer types, or start your application today.