How to Ship a Crawler Loader: Track Loader Transport Guide

Crawler Loader Weight and Dimension Ranges

Crawler loaders span a wide range of sizes. Before booking transport, verify the exact operating weight and dimensions of your specific unit — manufacturer specs may not account for wide track pads, additional counterweights, or bucket attachments that affect width and height.

Trailer Selection for Crawler Loaders

The right trailer depends on the machine's weight, width, and whether it can be driven up ramps:

• Flatbed: Suitable only for compact crawler loaders that fit within legal height limits (under 13'6" loaded). The machine must be operational and able to drive up ramps. Rarely used for crawler loaders due to height constraints.
• Step Deck: Provides 12–18 inches of additional height clearance compared to a flatbed. Appropriate for compact to mid-size machines where total loaded height stays within legal limits.
• Lowboy (Double-Drop): The most common trailer for crawler loaders. The low deck height (18"–24" off the ground) keeps most machines within legal height limits. The machine drives up rear ramps — requires operational equipment and sufficient ground clearance.
• RGN (Removable Gooseneck): The preferred option for large crawler loaders, non-running machines, or units with wide track pads that make ramp loading difficult. The detachable front creates a ground-level ramp for easy drive-on loading.

Width Considerations: Track Pads Are Critical

One of the most common mistakes when shipping crawler loaders is underestimating the width. Standard track pads may keep the machine within the 8'6" federal limit, but wide pads — common on machines used in soft soil or swampy conditions — can push the width to 10' or more, requiring an oversize width permit. Always measure the actual width with the installed track pads before booking transport.

For the Cat 963, for example, standard track width is approximately 8'6", but wide-pad configurations can reach 10'–11'. This difference determines whether a standard permit or an oversize permit is required — and whether escort vehicles are needed.

Permit Requirements for Crawler Loaders

Federal legal limits are 8'6" wide, 13'6" tall, and 80,000 lbs GVW. Most medium and large crawler loaders exceed at least one threshold:

• Width permits: Required when the machine (including track pads) exceeds 8'6". Very common for crawler loaders with wide pads.
• Weight permits: Required when the combined weight of truck, trailer, and machine exceeds 80,000 lbs. Medium and large crawler loaders almost always require weight permits.
• Escort vehicles: Required in most states for loads over 14' wide. Large crawler loaders with wide pads may require pilot cars.
• Daylight-only travel: Most states restrict oversize loads to daylight hours, which affects scheduling for multi-day moves.

Preparing a Crawler Loader for Transport

• Clean the undercarriage: Packed mud and debris in the tracks adds weight and can fall onto the road during transit. Most states require clean equipment for transport.
• Lower the bucket: The bucket should be lowered to the deck surface during transport to reduce height and improve stability.
• Secure loose attachments: Remove or secure any attachments that could shift during transit.
• Check for fluid leaks: Hydraulic or fuel leaks must be addressed before loading.
• Measure actual dimensions: Measure width with track pads installed and height with bucket in transport position before providing specs to the carrier.
• Document condition: Photograph the machine from all angles before loading, including the undercarriage, glass, and hour meter.

Loading and Securement

Crawler loader loading requires firm, level ground and an experienced operator. The loading site must be accessible to the truck and trailer — typically requiring 100+ feet of straight, level approach. For lowboy loading, the machine drives up rear ramps; for RGN loading, the front detaches and the machine drives on at ground level.

Securement uses Grade 70 or higher chains with a minimum of four tie-down points for loads over 10,000 lbs. The bucket should be chained to the deck to prevent movement. Drivers inspect chain tension at the 50-mile mark and every 150 miles thereafter.

Cost Factors for Crawler Loader Transport

Crawler loader shipping costs depend on size, distance, and permit complexity:

• Compact crawler loaders (regional, under 200 miles): $800–$2,500
• Medium crawler loaders (cross-country): $3,000–$7,000
• Large crawler loaders (cross-country): $5,000–$12,000+

IronHaul Logistics handles crawler loader transport nationwide with full permit coordination. Get a free quote at our online form, call (208) 495-2260, or email [email protected] with your machine model, dimensions, and origin/destination.