A stake truck is a flatbed-style vehicle with removable wooden or metal side panels (called “stakes”) that keep cargo from shifting during transport. If you have a big haul coming up and a pickup truck just won’t cut it, a stake truck rental might be exactly what you need. However, it’s important that you know:
- How much weight a stake truck can carry (up to 15,000 lbs., depending on size)
- How a stake truck compares to a flatbed, and which one is right for your job
- The top five jobs made easier with a stake truck rental
- How to safely load and secure cargo so nothing shifts on the road
At Marcus Allard Truck Rental, our team is happy to take your call and help you determine the best solutions for your move. Contact us today to reserve your rental or get guidance on which vehicle you should use.
How Much Weight Can a Stake Truck Carry?
These trucks typically carry anywhere from 8,500 to 15,000 lbs., depending on the size of the vehicle you choose. Stake trucks come in many different sizes, including:
- 12-foot trucks, which can carry up to 8,500 lbs.
- 14-foot trucks, which can hold up to 10,000 lbs.
- 16-foot trucks, which can handle up to 11,500 lbs.
- 18-foot trucks, which can carry up to 13,000 lbs.
- 22-foot trucks, which offer maximum capacity up to 15,000 lbs.
Many stake truck rentals also come equipped with a heavy-duty lift gate, helping you load and unload heavy cargo safely and efficiently.
Stake Truck vs. Flatbed: Which One Is Better for Your Job?
You may be wondering if you can use a flatbed instead of a stake truck for your project. Both trucks are built to carry large, bulky loads, but they serve very different purposes. A flatbed truck has no side panels, making this vehicle ideal for oversized cargo like machinery or steel beams that need to be loaded from the side with a forklift. A stake truck has removable side stakes that keep cargo securely contained while in transit. This may be the better option if you are moving:
- Materials including gravel, mulch, or soil
- Palletized goods and boxes
- Furniture, appliances, or equipment that needs lateral support
- Cargo that requires frequent stops and unloading
If your load is oddly shaped or extremely wide, a flatbed is your best bet. But if you need to move multiple items safely and securely from point A to point B, a stake truck is the way to go. You can discuss all your vehicle options with a trusted truck rental company.
What Are the Top 5 Jobs That Are Easier with a Stake Truck Rental?
Stake trucks are incredibly versatile and serve as a reliable solution for transporting oversized, bulky, or heavy cargo. Whether you are managing a demanding commercial job site or getting started on a heavy-duty weekend project, renting a stake truck can make your day much easier. Here are five common jobs where renters get the most value from our dependable vehicles:
- Landscaping projects: Haul mulch, sod, plants, or stone in one trip instead of several
- Construction deliveries: Transport lumber, concrete blocks, or other materials to your job site
- Farm and agricultural work: Move feed, equipment, or produce across large properties without hassle
- Commercial deliveries: Make simple multi-stop deliveries with the truck’s side and rear access
- Event setup and teardown: Pack and unload tents, tables, chairs, and tools efficiently
Renting a stake truck for these jobs provides many benefits. When choosing a rental provider, look for well-maintained, high-quality vehicles that you can trust to get the job done safely. A reliable rental team will help you select the perfect vehicle for your needs, no matter the scale of your next project.
How Do You Load and Secure Cargo Safely on a Stake Truck?
It’s important to load and secure your cargo safely, so you can protect yourself and everyone on the road. Consider the following when you decide to rent a stake truck:
- Use the lift gate: Lift heavy or awkward items easily.
- Balance weight evenly: Keep the heaviest items centered and low to avoid tipping.
- Use tie-down straps: Secure cargo with ratchet straps attached to the truck’s tie-down rings.
- Check stake panels: Make sure all stakes are locked in place.
- Don’t overload: Stay within your truck’s rated payload capacity to keep handling safe and predictable.
Safety and proper preparation go hand in hand, making your moving or delivery process efficient and trouble-free. With these tips in mind, you can rest easy, knowing you’ve created a safe transportation for your items.
Ready to Rent a Stake Truck? Contact Marcus Allard Truck Rental Today!
Whether you’re hauling landscaping materials, beginning a construction delivery, or running commercial loads, a stake truck gives you the capacity and flexibility to get the job done right. Marcus Allard Truck Rental has served Northwest Indiana and the Chicago area since 1958, with a well-maintained fleet and a team that’s ready to help you pick the right truck for the job. Contact us to reserve your stake truck today.
