How to Ship a Boom Lift or Aerial Work Platform: Transport Guide

Boom Lift Types and Transport Dimensions

Boom lifts come in three main configurations, each with different transport characteristics:

• Articulating Boom Lifts: Have a jointed arm that can reach over obstacles. Stowed length typically 18–30 ft, width 5–8 ft, height 6–9 ft. Weight range: 10,000–35,000 lbs.
• Telescopic (Straight) Boom Lifts: Extend in a straight line for maximum horizontal reach. Stowed length typically 20–37 ft, width 6–8 ft, height 7–10 ft. Weight range: 15,000–60,000 lbs for large models.
• Towable Boom Lifts: Compact units designed to be towed behind a pickup truck. Stowed length 15–20 ft, width 5–6 ft, height 5–7 ft. Weight range: 2,500–5,000 lbs. Often ship on a standard car hauler or small equipment trailer.

Weight and Dimension Reference Table

Model Example	Platform Height	Stowed Length	Stowed Width	Operating Weight
JLG 35E (articulating)	35 ft	~17 ft	~5.5 ft	~9,810 lbs
JLG 600S (telescopic)	60 ft	~27 ft	~7.5 ft	~26,000 lbs
JLG 800A (articulating)	80 ft	~37 ft	~8 ft	~35,000 lbs
JLG 1850SJ (telescopic)	185 ft	~50+ ft	~10+ ft	~60,000 lbs

Always provide the carrier with the exact stowed dimensions from the manufacturer's spec sheet — not the maximum working height. The stowed length, width, and height determine the trailer type and permit requirements.

Trailer Selection

Flatbed Trailers

Suitable for compact articulating and towable boom lifts that fit within standard dimensions (under 8.5 ft wide, under 13.5 ft total transport height). The flatbed deck height of 48–54 inches must be added to the lift's stowed height to calculate total transport height. A 35-ft articulating lift with a 6-ft stowed height on a flatbed results in a total height of about 10.5 ft — well within legal limits.

Step Deck Trailers

The preferred option for mid-size boom lifts (60–80 ft platform height) where the stowed height plus flatbed deck height would approach 13.5 ft. The step deck's lower rear deck (36–42 inches) provides 6–12 inches of additional clearance compared to a standard flatbed. Step decks are also easier to load for lifts with limited ground clearance.

RGN (Removable Gooseneck) Trailers

Required for large telescopic boom lifts (100+ ft platform height) and any boom lift that exceeds 13.5 ft total transport height on a step deck. The RGN's detachable front allows the trailer to be lowered to ground level for drive-on loading, and the deck height of 18–24 inches provides maximum vertical clearance. Most 60,000-lb boom lifts require an RGN with multiple axles for proper weight distribution.

Double Drop (Lowboy) Trailers

Reserved for the largest boom lifts (JLG 1850SJ class) where even an RGN doesn't provide sufficient clearance. Double drop trailers have a well deck height of 12–18 inches, the lowest available for highway transport.

Permit Requirements

Boom lifts frequently trigger oversize permits because their stowed width often approaches or exceeds 8.5 ft, and their weight can exceed 80,000 lbs GVW when combined with the trailer. Key permit thresholds:

• Width over 8.5 ft: Oversize permit required in every state. Loads over 12 ft wide typically require one escort vehicle; over 14 ft require two.
• Height over 13.5 ft: Oversize permit required. Route must be surveyed for bridge clearances.
• GVW over 80,000 lbs: Overweight permit required. Axle weight distribution must be calculated and verified against bridge ratings along the route.
• Length over 53 ft: Oversize permit required in most states. Rear escort typically required for loads over 65 ft.

Loading and Securement

• Boom fully retracted and secured: The boom must be fully retracted and locked in the transport position per manufacturer specifications. Never transport with the boom extended.
• Outriggers retracted: All outriggers and stabilizers must be fully retracted and pinned.
• Battery disconnected: Disconnect the battery to prevent accidental operation.
• Tie-down points: Use manufacturer-designated tie-down points only. Minimum four tie-down points required per DOT 49 CFR Part 393. Use Grade 70 or Grade 80 chains with appropriate working load limits.
• Fuel and fluids: Fuel tank should be no more than one-quarter full for transport. Check for fluid leaks before loading.

Inoperable Boom Lifts

If the boom lift is inoperable (won't drive), loading requires a forklift, crane, or winch. Inform IronHaul upfront so we can dispatch a carrier equipped for non-operational loading. Inoperable units may also require a lowboy or RGN with a winch to pull the machine onto the trailer safely.

IronHaul Logistics ships boom lifts and aerial work platforms of all sizes nationwide. Whether it's a compact 35-ft articulating lift or a 185-ft telescopic boom, we handle the trailer selection, permits, and carrier dispatch. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or submit our online quote form for a fast rate.