How to Ship a Hydraulic Excavator (20–50 Ton): Dimensions, Trailers, and Permits
Hydraulic excavators in the 20–50 ton class are among the most commonly transported pieces of heavy equipment in North America. Whether you've purchased a machine at auction, are relocating a construction fleet, or are moving equipment to a port for export, understanding the dimensions, trailer requirements, and permit process for this class of excavator is essential for a smooth, compliant move.
Excavator Size Classes: 20–50 Ton Overview
The 20–50 ton hydraulic excavator class covers a wide range of machines, from mid-size units like the Caterpillar 320 (approximately 47,000 lbs) to larger machines like the Komatsu PC490 (approximately 107,000 lbs at the upper end of this class). Understanding where your specific machine falls within this range is critical for selecting the right trailer and obtaining accurate permits.
| Machine Class | Example Models | Operating Weight | Track Width | Transport Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20–25 ton | Cat 320, Komatsu PC210, Deere 210G | 44,000–55,000 lbs | 9.2–9.5 ft | 9.5–10.5 ft |
| 25–35 ton | Cat 330, Komatsu PC290, Volvo EC300 | 55,000–77,000 lbs | 9.5–10.0 ft | 10.0–11.0 ft |
| 35–50 ton | Cat 349, Komatsu PC390, Hitachi ZX350 | 77,000–110,000 lbs | 10.0–10.5 ft | 10.5–12.0 ft |
Transport Configuration
Before loading, the excavator must be placed in its transport configuration to minimize dimensions and ensure safe transit:
- Boom and stick: Fully retracted with the stick curled toward the machine; bucket resting flat on the trailer deck or tucked under the boom
- Upper house: Rotated to face forward (in line with the tracks) and locked in position
- Hydraulic lockout: Engage the hydraulic lockout lever to prevent accidental movement of the boom, stick, or bucket during transit
- Track width: If the machine has adjustable track width, retract tracks to the narrowest legal position before loading
- Attachments: Remove oversized attachments (large buckets, hydraulic thumbs, grapples) if they increase overall width or height beyond permit limits
Trailer Selection
Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailer
The RGN is the preferred trailer for most 20–50 ton excavator moves. The detachable front gooseneck lowers to the ground, allowing the excavator to drive onto the deck under its own power — no crane or forklift required. This is especially valuable for auction pickups or job site moves where loading equipment is not available. RGN trailers typically have a well length of 24–29 feet and a deck height of 18–24 inches, keeping the overall transport height manageable.
Lowboy Trailer
A standard lowboy (fixed gooseneck) is suitable for excavators that can be loaded with a ramp or crane. Lowboys offer similar deck heights to RGNs but require the machine to be loaded from the rear or side. Tandem-axle lowboys handle machines up to approximately 48,000 lbs; heavier machines require 3-axle or 4-axle configurations.
Multi-Axle Configurations for Heavy Units
Excavators in the 35–50 ton range often exceed 80,000 lbs GVW when combined with the trailer. These moves require multi-axle trailers (3+ axles) to distribute weight and comply with the federal Bridge Formula. Some states require additional axles or reduced speed for loads over 100,000 lbs GVW.
Permit Requirements
Because most 20–50 ton excavators have track widths of 9.2–10.5 feet — well above the federal 8.5-foot legal limit — an oversize permit is required in every state on the route. Key permit thresholds to know:
- Width over 8.5 ft: Oversize permit required in all states
- Width over 10 ft: "WIDE LOAD" banner required on front and rear of load
- Width over 12 ft: One pilot car (escort vehicle) typically required
- Width over 14–16 ft: Two pilot cars typically required (varies by state)
- GVW over 80,000 lbs: Overweight permit required; multi-axle trailer needed
- GVW over 100,000–120,000 lbs: Superload permit may be required in some states
Tie-Down and Securement Requirements
FMCSA regulations require a minimum of four direct tie-down points for loads over 10,000 lbs. For a 20–50 ton excavator, the standard securement approach is:
- Two chains on the front of the machine (attached to the track frame or designated tie-down points on the undercarriage)
- Two chains on the rear of the machine (same attachment points)
- All chains must have a combined Working Load Limit (WLL) equal to at least 50% of the machine's weight
- Chains must be inspected at the 50-mile mark and every 150 miles or 3 hours thereafter
- Binders must be secured with safety pins or wire to prevent accidental release
Loading and Unloading Considerations
When using an RGN trailer, the excavator drives on under its own power. The driver should verify that the ground at the loading site is level and firm enough to support the machine's weight during the drive-on process. Soft or uneven ground can cause the trailer to shift or the machine to lose traction. When using a lowboy with a ramp, ensure the ramp angle does not exceed the machine's approach angle — most excavators have a maximum ramp angle of 15–20 degrees.
Get a Quote for Your Excavator Move
IronHaul Logistics specializes in 20–50 ton hydraulic excavator transport nationwide. We select the right trailer for your specific machine, handle all state permits, and coordinate pilot cars when required. Whether you're moving a Cat 320 from an auction or relocating a Cat 349 to a new job site, we've got you covered. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or use our online quote form for a fast, accurate rate.
Common questions
What trailer do I need to ship a 30-ton excavator?
A Removable Gooseneck (RGN) or lowboy trailer is standard for a 30-ton excavator. The RGN is preferred when a loading ramp or crane is not available at the pickup site, as the machine can drive on under its own power.
Do I need a permit to ship a 20-ton excavator?
Yes. Most 20-ton excavators have track widths of 9.2–9.5 feet, which exceeds the federal 8.5-foot legal limit. An oversize permit is required in every state on the route.
How do I prepare my excavator for transport?
Retract the boom and stick fully, rest the bucket on the deck, rotate the upper house to face forward and lock it, engage the hydraulic lockout, and retract the tracks to their narrowest position if adjustable. Remove oversized attachments if they increase dimensions beyond permit limits.
How many tie-down chains are required for an excavator?
FMCSA requires a minimum of four direct tie-down points for loads over 10,000 lbs. For a 20–50 ton excavator, two chains on the front and two on the rear of the track frame is the standard configuration.
Can a 50-ton excavator be shipped on a standard lowboy?
A 50-ton excavator (approximately 100,000+ lbs) exceeds the capacity of a standard tandem-axle lowboy. A 3-axle or 4-axle lowboy or RGN is required, and an overweight permit will be needed since the combined GVW will exceed 80,000 lbs.
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