How to Ship a Log Loader: Complete Transport Guide
Log loaders are specialized forestry machines used for sorting, stacking, and loading timber at logging operations, sawmills, and wood processing facilities. These machines are purpose-built for rough terrain and heavy lifting, which means they're also among the more challenging pieces of equipment to transport. Operating weights range from approximately 68,000 lbs for mid-size units to over 113,000 lbs for large production models, and their extended booms and grapple attachments require careful planning for legal transport.
Log Loader Dimensions and Weight Ranges
Log loaders vary significantly by manufacturer and model. Common brands include Caterpillar, John Deere, Link-Belt, Doosan, Hitachi, and Tigercat. Here are typical dimension and weight ranges for transport planning:
| Size Class | Operating Weight | Transport Width | Transport Height | Transport Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Size (e.g., Cat 320 log config) | 68,000–80,000 lbs | 10–11 ft | 10–11 ft | 28–32 ft |
| Large (e.g., Cat 330, Link-Belt 330) | 80,000–100,000 lbs | 11–12 ft | 11–12 ft | 30–35 ft |
| Production (e.g., Tigercat 870, Cat 345) | 100,000–113,000+ lbs | 12–14 ft | 11–13 ft | 32–38 ft |
Important: Always verify exact dimensions with the machine's spec sheet before booking transport. Boom configuration, grapple attachment, and counterweight position all affect transport dimensions. Most log loaders must have the boom retracted and pinned for transport.
Trailer Selection for Log Loaders
The weight and height of log loaders make lowboy and RGN trailers the standard choice for transport:
- RGN (Removable Gooseneck) Trailer: The preferred option for most log loaders. The removable gooseneck allows the machine to drive on under its own power (if operational), eliminating the need for a crane or ramp. RGN trailers can handle up to 150,000 lbs and provide a deck height of 18–22 inches, keeping tall machines within legal height limits.
- Lowboy (Fixed Neck) Trailer: Suitable for mid-size log loaders under 80,000 lbs. The fixed neck requires the machine to be loaded via ramps or a crane, which adds time and cost. Deck height is typically 18–24 inches.
- Multi-Axle Heavy Haul Trailer: Required for production-class log loaders over 100,000 lbs. Multi-axle configurations distribute weight across more axle groups to meet state bridge formula requirements.
Permit Requirements for Log Loader Transport
Most log loaders exceed federal legal limits and require oversize/overweight permits in every state they transit:
- Weight: Any load over 80,000 lbs GVW requires an overweight permit. Production log loaders at 100,000–113,000+ lbs require super-load permits in most states, which involve engineering review and may require specific routes.
- Width: Log loaders over 8.5 ft wide require oversize permits. Units over 14 ft wide require pilot cars in most states; units over 16 ft wide require special routing approval.
- Height: Loads over 13.5 ft tall require oversize permits and route surveys to identify low bridges and overhead obstructions.
- Pilot Cars: Required in most states for loads over 12–14 ft wide. Some states require both front and rear escorts for very wide loads.
Loading and Tie-Down Considerations
Log loaders present specific loading challenges that experienced carriers plan for:
- Boom retraction: The boom must be fully retracted and pinned in the transport position before loading. Verify with the operator's manual for the specific model.
- Grapple removal: Large grapple attachments may need to be removed and shipped separately to reduce transport width and height. This is common for production-class machines.
- Tie-down points: Log loaders have designated tie-down points on the undercarriage and frame. Chains should be attached to these points only — never to hydraulic lines, cylinders, or boom components. Minimum 4-point tie-down is standard; heavy units require 6–8 chains.
- Track width: Crawler-mounted log loaders may need track width adjusted (if the machine allows) to reduce transport width. Verify with the manufacturer's specifications.
- Counterweight: Some log loaders have removable counterweights. Removing the counterweight reduces transport weight and may eliminate the need for a super-load permit.
Preparing a Non-Running Log Loader for Transport
If the log loader is inoperable, additional planning is required:
- A crane or forklift will be needed to load the machine onto the trailer
- Verify that the boom can be retracted manually or with auxiliary hydraulic power
- Drain fuel to the minimum required for loading (reduces weight and fire risk)
- Secure all loose components, including grapple teeth, hydraulic hoses, and cab accessories
Ready to move a log loader? IronHaul Logistics specializes in forestry and heavy equipment transport nationwide. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or submit a quote request online. We handle permits, pilot cars, and loading coordination for log loaders of all sizes.
Common questions
What trailer is used to transport a log loader?
RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers are the preferred option for most log loaders because the removable gooseneck allows the machine to drive on under its own power. Lowboy trailers are used for mid-size units under 80,000 lbs. Production-class machines over 100,000 lbs require multi-axle heavy haul trailers.
Do log loaders require oversize permits?
Yes. Most log loaders exceed federal legal limits of 80,000 lbs GVW, 8.5 ft width, or 13.5 ft height, requiring oversize/overweight permits in every state they transit. Production-class machines over 100,000 lbs require super-load permits with engineering review.
Does the grapple attachment need to be removed for transport?
For large production-class log loaders, removing the grapple attachment may be necessary to reduce transport width and height below permit thresholds. For mid-size machines, the grapple can often remain attached if dimensions stay within permit limits.
How do I prepare a log loader for transport?
Retract and pin the boom in the transport position, verify tie-down points on the undercarriage and frame, secure all loose components, and drain fuel to the minimum required for loading. If the machine is non-running, a crane or forklift will be needed for loading.
Can IronHaul transport a log loader from a logging site with limited access?
Yes. IronHaul has experience with remote logging site pickups. We assess site access, ground conditions, and loading requirements in advance to ensure the right equipment and trailer are dispatched. Contact us to discuss your specific site conditions.
Ready to move a machine?
Tell us what you're shipping and where. We quote direct — no bidding wars, no load-board runaround.