Shipping a Compact Track Loader (CTL): Heavy Haul Transport Guide

Compact Track Loader Size Classes and Specifications

CTLs are categorized by frame size, which determines their weight, dimensions, and transport requirements:

Frame Class	Operating Weight	Typical Width	Typical Height (cab)	Examples
Mini / Small	3,700–7,000 lbs	60"–72"	72"–78"	ASV RT-25, Cat 239D
Medium	7,000–11,000 lbs	72"–84"	78"–84"	Bobcat T595, Case TV380
Large	11,000–16,000+ lbs	84"–96"	84"–90"	Cat 299D3, Case TV620B

Operating weight includes the machine, fluids, and standard equipment but not attachments. Always add attachment weight when calculating total load weight for permit and trailer selection purposes.

Trailer Requirements for CTL Transport

The right trailer depends on the CTL's weight and whether you're using a pickup truck/gooseneck or a commercial carrier:

• Gooseneck trailer (owner-operated): Many small-to-medium CTLs can be transported on a 20'–25' gooseneck trailer pulled by a heavy-duty pickup truck. The combined weight of the machine, trailer, and truck must stay within the towing vehicle's GCWR and applicable CDL thresholds
• Flatbed (commercial carrier): Standard 48' flatbeds handle most CTLs. The machine is driven onto the trailer via the front or rear ramps
• Step-deck: Useful when shipping a CTL alongside taller equipment or when the CTL's cab height approaches the 13'6" permit threshold on a flatbed
• Lowboy: Rarely needed for CTLs unless the machine is exceptionally heavy (large-frame CTLs with heavy attachments) or the route has specific height restrictions

CDL Requirements for CTL Transport

CDL requirements for towing a CTL depend on the combined weight of the towing vehicle and trailer:

• A Class A CDL is required when the gross combined weight rating (GCWR) exceeds 26,001 lbs AND the towed vehicle's GVWR exceeds 10,000 lbs
• Many large-frame CTLs (11,000–16,000 lbs) on a gooseneck trailer (8,000–12,000 lbs) will exceed these thresholds when combined with a heavy-duty pickup truck
• CDL requirements vary by state — some states have different thresholds for farm vehicles or specific equipment types
• When using a commercial carrier (IronHaul Logistics), CDL compliance is the carrier's responsibility — you don't need to worry about it

Loading and Tie-Down Requirements

CTLs are typically driven onto the trailer via the machine's own tracks. Key loading and securement requirements:

• Track width vs. trailer width: The CTL's track width must fit between the trailer's wheel wells. Machines wider than 82" may not fit standard trailers — confirm dimensions before booking
• Bucket/attachment position: Lower the bucket or attachment to the trailer deck and curl it back to reduce height and forward weight. Remove or secure any attachments that could shift during transit
• Tie-down chains: FMCSA requires a minimum of 4 tie-down chains for CTLs. Chains should attach to the machine's designated tie-down points (typically D-rings or frame hooks) — never to hydraulic cylinders, hoses, or the ROPS
• Chocking: Wheel chocks or track chocks should be placed fore and aft of the tracks to prevent longitudinal movement
• Arm/boom position: Lower the lift arm fully and engage the parking brake before securing

Permit Requirements

Most CTLs ship without oversize permits because they fall within standard dimensions:

• Width: Most CTLs are 60"–96" wide — under the 102" (8'6") permit threshold
• Height: CTLs on a flatbed typically stand 10'–12' total (machine height + trailer deck height) — under the 13'6" permit threshold in most states
• Weight: CTLs weigh 3,700–16,000 lbs — well under the 80,000 lb GVW permit threshold even with a loaded trailer

Exceptions: Large-frame CTLs with heavy attachments on a loaded multi-machine trailer may approach permit thresholds. Always confirm total load dimensions and weight before booking.

Cost Factors for CTL Shipping

CTLs are among the more affordable heavy equipment items to ship due to their compact size and light weight:

• Distance: Standard flatbed rates of $2–$4/mile apply for most CTL shipments
• Consolidation: Multiple CTLs or a CTL with other compact equipment on one trailer reduces per-unit cost
• Auction pickup timing: IronPlanet and Ritchie Bros require equipment removal within 8 business days — factor this into your timeline to avoid storage fees
• Seasonal demand: Spring and fall construction seasons drive higher rates for compact equipment transport

IronHaul Logistics ships compact track loaders nationwide — from auction pickups to dealer transfers to job site deliveries. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or use our online quote form for a fast, accurate rate on your CTL shipment.