How to Ship a Sideboom Pipelayer: Dimensions, Counterweights & Heavy Haul Requirements

What Is a Sideboom Pipelayer?

A sideboom pipelayer (also called a side boom or pipe layer tractor) is a track-type machine with a lateral boom, hoist system, and counterweight assembly mounted to one side of the chassis. Unlike a crane, which swings 360 degrees, a sideboom lifts and carries pipe alongside the machine as it tracks forward. Multiple pipelayers work in tandem on pipeline spreads, each carrying a section of pipe while welders join the joints.

Sidebooms are used primarily in oil and gas pipeline construction, water main installation, and large-diameter sewer projects. They are also used in railroad accident recovery and emergency cleanup operations.

Sideboom Pipelayer Weights and Dimensions

Sideboom pipelayers vary significantly in size depending on their lift capacity class:

The Caterpillar PL87, one of the largest production pipelayers, has an operating weight of approximately 121,795 lbs (55,246 kg) and a lift capacity of 216,000 lbs. Smaller units like the Cat PL61 weigh approximately 55,000–65,000 lbs. Always verify the specific machine's operating weight from the manufacturer's spec sheet.

Counterweight Management: The Critical Transport Step

The counterweight system is the most important pre-transport consideration for a sideboom pipelayer. The counterweight assembly—which can weigh 10,000–30,000 lbs on large machines—is mounted on the opposite side of the boom to balance the machine during lifting operations. For transport:

• Counterweight rod holders: Most modern pipelayers have counterweight rod holders that allow the counterweight to be repositioned or secured for transport. The counterweight must be in the transport position before loading.
• Counterweight removal: On some large machines, the counterweight must be partially or fully removed to bring the transport weight within permit thresholds or to reduce the transport width. Removed counterweights are transported separately.
• Width impact: With the boom and counterweight assembly, some pipelayers have a transport width exceeding 10–12 feet, requiring oversize permits and potentially escort vehicles.

Boom and Mast Configuration

The boom and mast assembly must be lowered and secured for transport. Most pipelayers have a defined transport position for the boom, and the manufacturer's Operation & Maintenance Manual specifies the correct procedure. The boom must be secured with chains or straps to prevent movement during transit. On some machines, the boom can be removed entirely for transport, which reduces height and width but adds a second load.

Trailer Selection

Most sideboom pipelayers require an RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailer due to their tracked undercarriage and high operating weight. The RGN's detachable neck allows the machine to be driven directly onto the trailer deck at ground level, which is essential for tracked equipment. Multi-axle configurations (3-axle, 4-axle, or 5-axle lowboys) are required for machines exceeding 80,000 lbs to distribute weight within legal axle limits.

Permit Requirements

Most sideboom pipelayers exceed the 80,000 lb GVW federal threshold, requiring OS/OW permits in every state traversed. Large machines (over 100,000 lbs) may qualify as superloads in some states, requiring additional engineering review and route surveys. Width permits are required for machines exceeding 8 ft 6 in in transport width, which is common for pipelayers with the boom and counterweight assembly in the transport position.

IronHaul Logistics has experience transporting sideboom pipelayers for pipeline construction companies and equipment dealers. We handle counterweight configuration planning, multi-axle trailer coordination, and permit management. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or request a quote online.