How to Ship a Bulldozer: Dimensions, Trailers & Permit Requirements

Bulldozer Size and Weight Ranges

Bulldozers (also called track-type tractors or dozers) span a wide range of sizes. The transport requirements vary dramatically between a small D3 and a large D10 or Komatsu D375. Key specifications by class:

Dozer Class	Example Models	Operating Weight	Transport Width	Transport Height
Small	Cat D3, D4; Komatsu D37, D39	15,000–25,000 lbs	7–8 ft	9–10 ft
Medium	Cat D5, D6; Komatsu D51, D61	25,000–50,000 lbs	8–10 ft	10–12 ft
Large	Cat D7, D8; Komatsu D85, D155	50,000–90,000 lbs	10–12 ft	11–13 ft
Extra Large	Cat D9, D10, D11; Komatsu D275, D375	90,000–230,000 lbs	12–18 ft	12–15 ft

The Cat D6, one of the most commonly shipped dozers, has a transport width of approximately 100 inches (8'4") over tracks and a height of approximately 10'5" — typically within legal limits for width but requiring a lowboy for height management. The Cat D8 is wider at approximately 10'1" and heavier at approximately 79,600 lbs operating weight, requiring oversize permits in most states.

Blade and Ripper Removal Considerations

The blade is the most significant variable in bulldozer transport. A straight blade (S-blade) or semi-universal blade (SU-blade) adds 2 to 4 feet to the machine's overall length and can add significant width on larger models. Options for transport:

• Blade attached: Most common for small and medium dozers. The blade folds or tilts to minimize transport width. Verify the folded width before booking.
• Blade removed: Required for large dozers where the blade would push the load over legal width limits. The blade ships separately on a flatbed or alongside the dozer on a multi-axle trailer.
• Rear ripper: Rippers add length and weight. They are typically removed for transport on large dozers and shipped separately.

Trailer Selection for Bulldozer Transport

Trailer selection depends on the dozer's weight and height:

• Flatbed (48' or 53'): Suitable for small dozers (D3, D4) under 48,000 lbs and under 8'6" wide. The dozer must fit within the flatbed's 5-foot deck height plus the machine's own height to stay under 13'6" total.
• Step Deck / Drop Deck: Suitable for medium dozers where the lower deck height (approximately 3.5 feet) provides additional height clearance. Good for D5 and D6 class machines.
• RGN Lowboy: Required for most D6 and larger dozers. The low deck height (18–24 inches) is essential for machines that would otherwise exceed 13'6" total height. RGN trailers also provide the load capacity needed for heavy dozers.
• Multi-axle RGN: Required for D9, D10, D11, and other extra-large dozers exceeding 80,000 lbs net weight. Multi-axle configurations distribute weight across more axles to comply with bridge formula requirements.

Permit Requirements for Bulldozer Shipping

Federal permit thresholds apply to all states: 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight, 8.5 feet wide, 13.5 feet tall. Most medium and large dozers exceed at least one of these thresholds, requiring oversize or overweight permits. Key considerations:

• A Cat D6 at 42,000 lbs shipping weight is under the weight threshold but may require width permits if the blade configuration exceeds 8'6".
• A Cat D8 at approximately 79,600 lbs operating weight is near the weight threshold — shipping weight (without fluids) is typically lower, but the combined trailer and dozer GVW will exceed 80,000 lbs.
• D9 and larger dozers are almost always overweight and oversize, requiring multi-state permits, escort vehicles, and route surveys.

Tie-Down and Securement Requirements

Bulldozers must be secured per FMCSA regulations. Key securement points:

• Four primary chains (minimum) attached to the dozer's designated tie-down points — typically the front push frame and rear frame rails.
• Chains must be rated for the load weight — working load limit (WLL) must equal at least 50% of the cargo weight.
• The blade must be lowered to the trailer deck or secured in the raised position with additional chains.
• Track shoes must be blocked to prevent forward and rearward movement.

Cost Factors for Bulldozer Transport

Key cost drivers for dozer shipping include machine weight, trailer type, permit complexity, and distance. Escort vehicle requirements for wide loads (over 12 feet in most states) add $3–$5 per mile per escort. Multi-state permitting for large dozers can run $300–$800 or more. Superload permits for D10/D11 class machines require engineering route surveys and can cost $1,000–$5,000 in permit fees alone.

IronHaul Logistics ships bulldozers of all sizes nationwide. Whether you're moving a D4 from an auction yard or a D11 from a mine site, our team handles permitting, escort coordination, and specialized trailer sourcing. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or request a free quote online.