How to Ship a Motor Grader: Dimensions, Trailers & Permit Requirements

Motor Grader Dimensions and Weight by Class

Motor graders vary significantly by model and manufacturer. Before booking transport, confirm the exact specifications of your machine — including all attachments — with the manufacturer's spec sheet.

Class	Example Models	Operating Weight	Transport Length	Transport Width	Transport Height
Small (utility)	Cat 120, Deere 620	28,000–35,000 lbs	26–28 ft	8.0–8.5 ft	10.5–11.5 ft
Mid-size	Cat 140, Deere 672, Komatsu GD655	35,000–45,000 lbs	28–32 ft	8.5–9.5 ft	11.5–12.5 ft
Large	Cat 16, Deere 872, Komatsu GD825	45,000–57,000 lbs	32–38 ft	9.5–11.0 ft	12.5–13.5 ft

Note: Transport height is measured from the ground to the highest point of the cab or ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure). When loaded on a lowboy trailer, total transport height typically increases by 18–24 inches above the machine's ground-level height.

Trailer Selection for Motor Grader Transport

Because motor graders are tall and heavy, a lowboy or Removable Gooseneck (RGN) trailer is the standard choice for virtually all motor grader moves.

• RGN (Removable Gooseneck): The preferred option for most motor grader moves. The detachable gooseneck creates a ramp that allows the grader to drive on under its own power — critical at auction yards, job sites, and dealer lots without loading docks. RGN trailers have deck heights of 18–24 inches, keeping total transport height manageable.
• Fixed Gooseneck Lowboy: Suitable when a loading ramp or dock is available at origin. Slightly lower cost than RGN but requires external loading equipment if no ramp is present.
• Standard Flatbed: Not recommended for most motor graders. The 48–54 inch deck height of a standard flatbed would push total transport height to 14–15 ft for most graders, requiring additional permits and potentially exceeding bridge clearances.

Loading and Preparation Checklist

Proper preparation prevents damage and ensures compliance with DOT cargo securement regulations (49 CFR Part 393):

• Lower the blade: The moldboard blade should be lowered to its transport position and locked. Remove or secure any ripper or scarifier attachments.
• Retract the circle drive: Center the blade and lock the circle drive to prevent rotation during transit.
• Fold or remove the cab mirrors: Wide mirrors can add 1–2 ft to the overall transport width, potentially triggering additional permit requirements.
• Engage the parking brake and hydraulic lockout: Prevents accidental movement during loading and transit.
• Identify tie-down points: Consult the operator's manual for manufacturer-approved tie-down locations. Typically four points — two front, two rear — using Grade 70 or Grade 80 chains and binders.
• Drain fluids if required: Some carriers require fuel tanks to be no more than 1/4 full for fire safety compliance.
• Confirm operability: Inform the carrier if the machine is non-operational. Non-running graders require crane or forklift loading assistance, adding $200–$500 to the move cost.

Oversize Permit Requirements

Most motor graders exceed the federal legal width of 8.5 ft, making oversize permits mandatory in every state traversed. Key permit thresholds:

• Width over 8.5 ft: Oversize permit required in all states.
• Width over 12 ft: Front escort vehicle required in most states.
• Width over 14–16 ft: Front and rear escort vehicles required (thresholds vary by state).
• Height over 13.5–14 ft (loaded): Route survey required to verify bridge clearances.
• Weight over 80,000 lbs GVW: Overweight permit required; additional axles may be needed.

Permit fees for a standard motor grader move typically run $150–$500 total for a multi-state haul. Superloads (large graders over 16 ft wide) require engineering route surveys and can take 5–10 business days to permit.

Cost Factors for Motor Grader Shipping

Motor grader transport costs vary widely based on distance, dimensions, and route complexity:

• Regional moves (under 500 miles): $2,000–$5,000 all-in, including trailer, permits, and fuel surcharge.
• Long-haul moves (500–2,000 miles): $5,000–$12,000 depending on load dimensions and escort requirements.
• Superload moves (large graders, complex routes): $12,000–$20,000+ including engineering surveys and multi-escort coordination.
• Fuel surcharge: Typically 15–25% of the base linehaul rate, adjusted weekly based on the DOE national diesel average.
• Escort vehicles: $300–$600 per pilot car per day.

Need to ship a motor grader? IronHaul Logistics specializes in oversize equipment transport nationwide. We handle permit procurement, trailer selection, pilot car coordination, and delivery — all in one call. Request a free quote online, call (208) 495-2260, or email [email protected].