How to Ship a Concrete Pump Truck: Boom Pump Transport Guide

Concrete Pump Truck Types and Dimensions

Understanding the type of pump you're shipping is the first step in planning transport:

Pump Type	Typical Weight	Boom Length	Transport Width	Transport Height
Trailer-Mounted Line Pump	8,000–15,000 lbs	N/A	7–8 ft	6–8 ft
Small Boom Pump (24–32 m)	25,000–35,000 lbs	24–32 m folded	8–9 ft	11–13 ft
Mid-Size Boom Pump (36–47 m)	35,000–55,000 lbs	36–47 m folded	9–10 ft	12–14 ft
Large Boom Pump (52–65 m)	55,000–80,000 lbs	52–65 m folded	10–12 ft	13–15 ft

Large boom pumps frequently exceed both the 8 ft 6 in width limit and the 13 ft 6 in height limit, requiring oversize permits in every state on the route. The folded boom height is the critical measurement—confirm this with the manufacturer or measure the machine before booking transport.

Trailer Selection for Concrete Pump Trucks

Concrete pump trucks present a unique challenge: they are wheeled vehicles (not tracked), but their weight and height often exceed what a standard flatbed can handle legally. Options:

• RGN (Removable Gooseneck): The preferred choice for large boom pumps. The pump truck drives directly onto the RGN deck, eliminating the need for crane loading. The low deck height (18–22 inches) helps keep the combined height manageable. RGNs handle up to 150,000+ lbs.
• Step Deck / Drop Deck: Suitable for smaller boom pumps and line pumps where the combined height on the lower deck section stays under 13 ft 6 in. The lower deck section (18–24 inches) provides additional clearance compared to a standard flatbed.
• Flatbed: Only appropriate for trailer-mounted line pumps that are within legal dimensions. The 48–60 inch deck height of a standard flatbed adds significantly to the combined load height.

Note: Unlike tracked equipment, concrete pump trucks can often be driven short distances under their own power. However, driving a pump truck on public roads across state lines requires the truck to be properly licensed and registered in each state—most contractors find it simpler and safer to transport on a trailer.

Securing the Boom During Transport

The boom is the most critical component to secure properly. A boom that shifts during transit can damage the slewing ring, bend boom sections, or crack hydraulic lines—repairs that can cost $50,000–$200,000 on a large pump. Proper boom securing protocol:

• Fold the boom into its transport configuration and engage all boom locks
• Secure the folded boom to the truck body with heavy-duty ratchet straps or chains at manufacturer-designated points
• Use foam padding or rubber blocks at all contact points between the boom and the truck body to prevent metal-on-metal wear
• Retract and lock all outriggers in the transport position
• Secure the concrete hopper and agitator to prevent rotation
• Check that all hydraulic hoses are properly routed and secured to prevent chafing

Permit Requirements for Boom Pump Transport

Most large boom pumps require oversize permits due to width and height. Key thresholds:

• Over 8 ft 6 in wide: Oversize permit required in all states
• Over 10 ft wide: Rear escort vehicle required in most states
• Over 12 ft wide: Front and rear escort vehicles required in most states
• Over 13 ft 6 in tall (combined with trailer): Overheight permit required; route must be surveyed for low bridges and utility lines
• Over 80,000 lbs GVW: Overweight permit required; axle weight distribution must be calculated

For large boom pumps (52–65 m), the combined height on an RGN deck often reaches 14–15 feet, requiring overheight permits and route surveys in every state. Plan for 5–10 business days of permit lead time for complex boom pump moves.

Cost Factors for Concrete Pump Truck Transport

• Trailer-mounted line pump, short haul: $600–$1,500
• Small boom pump (24–32 m), regional haul: $1,500–$3,500
• Mid-size boom pump (36–47 m), cross-country: $4,000–$8,000
• Large boom pump (52–65 m), cross-country: $7,000–$15,000+
• Permit fees: $300–$1,500 per state for complex oversize/overheight loads
• Escort vehicles: $150–$400/day per car; large pumps often require two escorts

IronHaul Logistics moves concrete pump trucks for contractors, dealers, and rental companies nationwide. For a quote on your boom pump or line pump transport, call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or submit a request through our online quote form.