How to Ship a Mobile Jaw Crusher
Mobile jaw crushers are among the heaviest and most complex pieces of equipment to transport on public roads. Ranging from 60,000 lbs for compact tracked units to over 160,000 lbs for large primary crushers, these machines frequently require oversize and overweight permits, pilot cars, and careful route planning. This guide covers the key logistics considerations for moving a mobile jaw crusher safely and legally.
Mobile Jaw Crusher Dimensions and Weights
Mobile jaw crushers vary enormously in size depending on their crushing capacity and application. The transport footprint is a primary design constraint — manufacturers engineer hydraulically folding hoppers and conveyors specifically to reduce transport width. Always obtain the transport configuration dimensions from the manufacturer's spec sheet before booking a move.
| Size Class | Typical Weight | Transport Width | Transport Length | Transport Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact (e.g., Powerscreen Metrotrak) | 61,000–65,000 lbs | 8'2"–8'6" | 40–45 ft | 10–11 ft |
| Mid-Range (e.g., Premiertrak 330) | 76,000–80,000 lbs | 9'–10' | 45–52 ft | 11–12 ft |
| Large (e.g., Premiertrak 400X) | 102,000–106,000 lbs | 10'–12' | 52–60 ft | 12–13 ft |
| Heavy-Duty (e.g., Premiertrak 600) | 160,000–165,000 lbs | 12'–14' | 60–70 ft | 13–15 ft |
Note: Some large crushers (Sandvik UJ640E and similar) are designed to be transported in two main sections to comply with road transport regulations. Confirm with the manufacturer whether your unit requires disassembly for transport.
Trailer Selection for Jaw Crusher Transport
The trailer type depends on the crusher's weight and dimensions:
- RGN (Removable Gooseneck): The most common choice for tracked jaw crushers. The machine drives on/off under its own power via the removable gooseneck ramp. Suitable for crushers up to approximately 80,000–100,000 lbs on a standard RGN.
- Multi-Axle RGN (3–5 axle): Required for crushers in the 100,000–160,000 lb range. Additional axles distribute the weight across more tire groups to stay within per-axle weight limits.
- Hydraulic Detachable Lowboy (HDL): Used for the heaviest crushers. The hydraulic neck allows the deck to be lowered to ground level for drive-on loading without ramps.
- Modular/Goldhofer Transport: For crushers exceeding 160,000 lbs or with extreme dimensions, a modular self-propelled transporter (SPMT) or Goldhofer trailer may be required.
Permit Requirements
Mobile jaw crushers almost universally require oversize and overweight permits. Key thresholds:
- Width over 8'6": oversize permit required in all states
- Width over 12': front and rear pilot cars required in most states
- Width over 16': law enforcement escort required in many states
- GVW over 80,000 lbs: overweight permit required
- GVW over 105,500 lbs: multi-state coordination required; some states require engineering review
For crushers in the 100,000–160,000 lb range, expect a "superload" designation in most states, which requires route surveys, bridge analysis, and 5–10 business days of permit processing time. Plan your move well in advance.
Route Planning Considerations
Route planning for a jaw crusher move is more complex than a standard oversize load:
- Bridge ratings: Many rural bridges have posted weight limits below the crusher's GVW. A route survey identifies restricted bridges and alternative crossings.
- Overhead clearances: Crushers in transport configuration often reach 11–15 feet in height. Utility lines, overpasses, and traffic signals must be checked along the entire route.
- Turn radii: Long crushers (50–70 feet in transport) require wide turns. Urban areas and tight industrial parks may require pre-planning with local authorities.
- Utility line lifts: For very wide or tall loads, utility companies may need to temporarily raise power lines along the route.
Loading and Unloading Considerations
Tracked jaw crushers can typically drive on/off an RGN under their own power, which simplifies loading at quarry and mining sites where crane access is limited. Key loading considerations:
- Ensure the loading surface is level and firm enough to support the crusher's weight during the drive-on process
- Fold all hydraulic conveyors and hoppers to their transport position before loading
- Verify that the crusher's track width matches the trailer's deck width
- Secure the machine with chains rated for the load — minimum 4 tie-down points, with additional chains for heavy units
- Drain fuel to a safe level for transport (typically 1/4 tank or less) to reduce weight and fire risk
Moving a mobile jaw crusher requires a carrier with genuine heavy-haul experience and the right equipment. IronHaul Logistics specializes in oversize and overweight moves for crushing and screening equipment. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or get a quote online for your crusher move.
Common questions
What trailer do I need to ship a mobile jaw crusher?
Most tracked jaw crushers are moved on an RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailer, which allows the machine to drive on/off under its own power. Crushers over 100,000 lbs require a multi-axle RGN or hydraulic detachable lowboy. Very heavy units (160,000+ lbs) may require a modular SPMT transporter.
Do I need a superload permit for a jaw crusher?
It depends on the crusher's weight and dimensions. Crushers over 105,500 lbs GVW typically qualify as superloads in most states, requiring route surveys, bridge analysis, and 5–10 business days of permit processing. Plan your move well in advance.
Can a jaw crusher drive onto the trailer under its own power?
Yes — tracked jaw crushers are designed to drive on/off an RGN trailer under their own power via the removable gooseneck ramp. This is a major advantage at quarry and mining sites where crane access is limited.
Does a jaw crusher need to be disassembled for transport?
Compact and mid-range crushers (under 100,000 lbs) typically transport in one piece with hydraulic conveyors and hoppers folded. Some large crushers (Sandvik UJ640E and similar) are designed to be transported in two sections. Confirm with the manufacturer for your specific model.
How long does it take to get permits for a jaw crusher move?
Standard oversize permits (loads under 105,500 lbs) are typically issued in 1–3 business days. Superload permits for heavier crushers require route surveys and bridge analysis — allow 5–10 business days. IronHaul handles all permit coordination.
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