How to Ship a Grapple Truck: Complete Transport Guide

Grapple Truck Types and Weight Ranges

Grapple trucks come in several configurations, each with different transport requirements:

The Height Challenge: Stowed Boom Clearance

The most critical dimension for grapple truck transport is the stowed height of the boom and grapple assembly. Many grapple trucks, when the boom is folded into its travel position, still exceed the federal 13 ft 6 in height limit — triggering oversize permit requirements and potentially restricting routing through tunnels, underpasses, and low bridges.

Before booking transport, measure the actual stowed height of your specific machine. Do not rely on manufacturer specs alone — modifications, aftermarket attachments, and wear can alter the actual height. A height measurement error that puts you over a tunnel clearance limit can result in costly delays, fines, or worse.

Trailer Selection for Grapple Trucks

Lowboy Trailers

Lowboys are the most common trailer for grapple trucks because their low deck height (typically 18 to 24 inches off the ground) provides the maximum vertical clearance for tall boom assemblies. A machine that would be 15 ft tall on a standard flatbed may come in at 13 ft 2 in on a lowboy — keeping it within legal limits without a height permit.

RGN (Removable Gooseneck) Trailers

RGN trailers are preferred when the grapple truck is self-propelled and can drive onto the trailer. The detachable gooseneck drops to ground level, eliminating the need for ramps or crane assistance. RGNs also provide a low deck height similar to lowboys, making them suitable for tall machines.

Step Deck Trailers

Step decks are appropriate for smaller grapple trucks (compact skid-steer mounted units, smaller waste grapples) that do not require the full clearance of a lowboy. The lower main deck provides 12 to 18 inches of additional height clearance compared to a standard flatbed.

Permit Requirements

Most full-size grapple trucks will require oversize permits due to their height and/or weight:

• Height over 13 ft 6 in: Oversize permit required in all states. Route must be surveyed for low clearances.
• Width over 8 ft 6 in: Oversize permit required. Grapple attachments can extend the effective width significantly.
• GVW over 80,000 lbs: Overweight permit required. Many large grapple trucks exceed this threshold.
• Pilot car requirements: Typically required for loads over 14 ft wide or 15 ft tall, varying by state.

Securement and Pre-Transport Preparation

Proper preparation is essential for safe grapple truck transport:

• Fold the boom into its lowest possible travel position and pin or lock it in place
• Close and secure the grapple jaws — open jaws can catch wind and shift the load
• Inspect all hydraulic lines for leaks; carriers may refuse a leaking unit
• Disconnect the battery to prevent accidental boom activation during transit
• Use a minimum of four tie-down chains on machines over 10,000 lbs (49 CFR 393.130)
• Attach chains only to manufacturer-designated lashing points — never to hydraulic lines or non-structural components
• Photograph the machine from all angles before loading and note any pre-existing damage on the Bill of Lading

Cost Factors for Grapple Truck Transport

Shipping costs for grapple trucks depend on machine size, stowed height, distance, and permit complexity:

• Compact grapple loader (under 20,000 lbs): $3.00 to $5.00 per mile; step deck or flatbed
• Mid-size grapple truck (20,000 - 50,000 lbs): $4.00 to $7.00 per mile; lowboy or RGN; oversize permit likely
• Large knuckle-boom or demolition grapple (50,000+ lbs): $5.00 to $9.00 per mile; lowboy or multi-axle RGN; oversize and overweight permits; possible pilot car

IronHaul Logistics moves grapple trucks for forestry operations, demolition contractors, and waste management fleets nationwide. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or use our online quote form to get a fast, accurate rate for your grapple truck move.