Long-Reach Excavator Transport Guide: How to Ship a Long-Reach Excavator

What Is a Long-Reach Excavator?

A long-reach excavator is a standard excavator base fitted with an extended boom and arm assembly, allowing digging reach of 50–65 feet or more compared to the 20–30 foot reach of a conventional machine. Manufacturers including Caterpillar, Kobelco, Komatsu, Hitachi, and Volvo offer long-reach configurations on mid-size to large excavator platforms.

Typical Dimensions and Weights

Machine Class	Operating Weight	Transport Length	Transport Width	Transport Height
Mid-Size (25–30 ton)	55,000–66,000 lbs	45–52 ft	10–11 ft	10–11 ft
Large (35–45 ton)	77,000–100,000 lbs	50–60 ft	11–12 ft	10–12 ft
Heavy (50+ ton)	110,000–130,000 lbs	55–65 ft	11–13 ft	11–13 ft

Note: Transport dimensions vary significantly by model and boom configuration. Always verify specs with the manufacturer or equipment manual before booking transport.

Disassembly Requirements

Long-reach excavators almost always require partial disassembly for transport. The extended boom and arm assembly typically cannot be transported in one piece without exceeding legal height or length limits. Common disassembly steps include:

• Boom removal: The main boom is often pinned and can be removed and transported separately on a flatbed or step-deck
• Arm removal: The long arm/stick is removed and transported as a separate piece
• Counterweight removal: Heavy counterweights are often removed to reduce axle weights and transported separately
• Bucket/attachment removal: Grapples, buckets, and other attachments are always removed for transport

Disassembly and reassembly typically require a qualified mechanic and can add $500–$2,000 to the total transport cost. Plan for 4–8 hours of labor at each end of the move.

Trailer Selection

The excavator base (without boom) typically rides on a lowboy or RGN trailer. The boom and arm sections are transported on separate flatbed or step-deck trailers. Key considerations:

• RGN (Removable Gooseneck): Best for the excavator base; allows drive-on loading and provides the lowest deck height (~18–20 inches) for height-sensitive loads
• Lowboy / Double Drop: Alternative to RGN for the base; deck height of 18–24 inches
• Flatbed or Step-Deck: Used for boom and arm sections; these are long but relatively light and can often be transported within legal dimensions

Permit Requirements

Long-reach excavator transports almost always require oversize/overweight permits. Federal thresholds that trigger permit requirements:

• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) over 80,000 lbs
• Width over 8.5 ft (102 inches)
• Height over 13.5 ft
• Length over 53 ft (varies by state)

Most long-reach excavator moves will exceed at least two of these thresholds. Expect permits in every state traversed, with costs ranging from $50–$300 per state for standard oversize loads. Loads over 14 ft wide require pilot cars; loads over 16 ft wide may require police escort in some states.

Loading and Unloading Considerations

Loading a long-reach excavator requires a level, firm surface with adequate clearance for the boom sections. Key considerations:

• Ensure the loading area can support the combined weight of the machine and trailer during loading
• Boom sections require careful blocking and securing to prevent movement during transit
• Hydraulic lines must be capped and secured to prevent leaks during transport
• Track shoes should be inspected for sharp edges that could damage trailer decking

Cost Factors for Long-Reach Excavator Transport

Long-reach excavator moves are more complex and expensive than standard excavator transport due to disassembly requirements and multiple trailer loads. Typical cost factors:

• Base transport rate: $3.00–$6.00 per mile for the excavator base on an RGN or lowboy
• Separate trailer for boom/arm sections: $2.00–$4.00 per mile
• Disassembly/reassembly labor: $500–$2,000 per end
• Permits: $200–$800 total depending on states and load dimensions
• Pilot cars: $150–$400/day per escort vehicle

Get a Quote from IronHaul Logistics

IronHaul Logistics specializes in complex heavy equipment moves including long-reach excavators. We coordinate multi-trailer moves, disassembly logistics, and multi-state permit procurement so you don't have to. Call us at (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or fill out our online quote form to get started.