How to Ship a Bulldozer: Crawler Dozer Transport Guide

Bulldozer Size Classes and Weight Ranges

Bulldozers are classified by size, and the size class determines the trailer type, permit requirements, and cost of transport. Here's a practical breakdown by common Caterpillar model classes (other brands follow similar size tiers):

The CAT D6, one of the most commonly shipped dozers, weighs approximately 48,500–52,600 lbs depending on configuration. The CAT D9 weighs approximately 110,000 lbs. The D11, the largest production dozer, can exceed 230,000 lbs — requiring specialized multi-axle trailers and super load permits.

Trailer Selection for Bulldozer Transport

Bulldozers have low ground clearance (the undercarriage sits close to the ground), which makes loading and unloading more complex than wheeled equipment. The right trailer depends on the dozer's weight and dimensions:

• Removable Gooseneck (RGN): The most common choice for small to large dozers. The gooseneck detaches to create a ramp, allowing the dozer to be driven directly onto the deck under its own power. This eliminates the need for a crane or forklift for loading. RGN trailers typically handle loads up to 40,000–60,000 lbs on the deck.
• Lowboy: Similar to an RGN but with a fixed gooseneck. The low deck height (18–24 inches) provides extra vertical clearance for tall dozers. Used for medium to large dozers where height is the primary concern.
• Multi-Axle Heavy Haul: Required for large and extra-large dozers exceeding 80,000 lbs GVW. Additional axles spread weight across more points to comply with bridge formula limits. A D9 typically requires a 4–5 axle configuration; a D11 may require 7+ axles.
• Step Deck: Occasionally used for small dozers that are too tall for a flatbed but light enough that a full lowboy isn't necessary. Less common for dozers due to the loading challenge.

Pre-Transport Preparation: Critical Steps

Proper preparation before the carrier arrives prevents delays, damage, and permit violations:

• Lower and angle the blade: The dozer blade should be lowered to its lowest position and angled back (if the blade tilts) to reduce the overall length and height of the load. A raised blade can push the load height over the legal limit.
• Raise and lock the ripper: If the dozer has a rear-mounted ripper, it must be fully raised and locked in the transport position. A lowered ripper extends the rear of the machine and can create a ground-clearance hazard during loading.
• Drain fluids if required: Some states require fuel tanks to be below a certain level for oversize loads. Check with your carrier — most moves don't require draining, but it's worth confirming.
• Clean the tracks: Mud and debris on the tracks can fall off during transport, creating road hazards. Most carriers require tracks to be reasonably clean before loading.
• Measure the machine: Know your dozer's transport dimensions (length with blade, width with blade, height with cab) before calling for a quote. Accurate dimensions ensure the right trailer is dispatched and the correct permits are obtained.

Permit Requirements for Bulldozer Transport

Most bulldozers require oversize permits due to their width (blades are often 10–14 feet wide) and weight. Key permit thresholds:

• Width over 8.5 feet: Oversize permit required in every state traversed. Most dozers with blades exceed this threshold.
• Height over 13.5 feet: Oversize permit required. Most dozers on a lowboy stay under this limit, but large dozers with tall cabs can approach it.
• GVW over 80,000 lbs: Overweight permit required. Medium and large dozers often exceed this threshold when combined with the trailer weight.
• Width over 12 feet: Escort vehicle (pilot car) required in most states. Large dozer blades frequently exceed this threshold.
• Super loads (over 16 feet wide or over 200,000 lbs): Engineering review required, which can take 1–3 weeks. D10 and D11 class dozers often fall into this category.

Loading and Securement

Loading a bulldozer requires a level, firm surface and a trained operator. The dozer is typically driven onto the RGN or lowboy under its own power, then positioned and secured. Securement requires heavy-duty chains (Grade 70 or higher) and binders at the manufacturer's designated tie-down points — typically the front push frame and rear frame. Track stops or blocks prevent the machine from shifting during transit. The parking brake must be engaged and the transmission locked in park.

Cost Factors for Bulldozer Shipping

Bulldozer shipping costs vary widely based on size, distance, and permit requirements. As rough benchmarks: a small dozer (D4/D5 class) on a short regional move might run $800–$1,800. A medium dozer (D6/D7) on a 500-mile move typically runs $2,500–$5,000. A large dozer (D8/D9) requiring multi-axle equipment and escorts can run $5,000–$15,000+ depending on distance and permit complexity.

Ready to ship your bulldozer? IronHaul Logistics specializes in crawler dozer transport nationwide. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or use our online quote form. Have your dozer's model, weight, and transport dimensions ready for the fastest quote.