How to Ship a Pipe Layer (Pipelaying Tractor): Transport Guide

Pipe Layer Size Classes and Transport Requirements

Pipe layers are categorized by their lifting capacity and are used on pipeline projects ranging from small utility lines to major oil and gas transmission pipelines. Transport requirements vary dramatically by size class:

Model Class	Operating Weight	Width	Trailer Required	Permit Type
Cat 561 / Small Class	32,000–37,000 lbs	9–10 ft	Lowboy or RGN	Standard oversize
Cat 572 / Mid Class	55,000–65,000 lbs	10–12 ft	RGN (3-axle)	Oversize + overweight
Cat 583 / Large Class	90,000–110,000 lbs	12–14 ft	Multi-axle RGN	Oversize + overweight
Cat 587T / Extra Large	150,000+ lbs	14–16 ft	Goldhofer / modular	Superload permit

The Sideboom: The Critical Transport Challenge

The defining feature of a pipe layer is its sideboom — a crane-like boom mounted on the side of the machine that lifts and holds pipe during laying operations. The sideboom significantly affects transport in two ways:

• Width: When the sideboom is folded for transport, it typically adds 2–4 ft to the machine's overall width. A machine that is 9 ft wide at the tracks may be 12–13 ft wide with the boom folded against the side.
• Height: The folded boom may extend above the cab, increasing transport height. Verify total height with boom in transport position before booking.

Always measure the machine with the boom in its transport (folded) position, not in operating position. The transport width with boom folded is the critical measurement for permit purposes.

RGN Trailer Requirements

Pipe layers are self-propelled crawler machines, making RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers the preferred transport option. The detachable front allows the machine to drive on under its own power, eliminating the need for a crane or ramp at the loading site. Key RGN specifications for pipe layers:

• Small class (Cat 561): Standard 2-axle RGN with 29-ft well; 48,000 lb capacity
• Mid class (Cat 572): 3-axle RGN with 35-ft well; 65,000–80,000 lb capacity
• Large class (Cat 583): 4-axle RGN with 40-ft well; 100,000+ lb capacity
• Extra large (Cat 587T): Goldhofer modular trailer or multi-axle hydraulic platform; custom configuration required

Oversize and Superload Permit Requirements

All pipe layers require oversize permits due to their width exceeding 8.5 ft. Larger models also require overweight permits and, for the heaviest machines, superload permits:

• Standard oversize (width 8.5–12 ft): Oversize permit + WIDE LOAD banner; no escort required in most states
• Wide oversize (12–14 ft): Front escort vehicle required in most states
• Extra wide (14–16 ft): Front and rear escort vehicles required; some states require state police escort
• Superload (over 150,000 lbs GVW or over 16 ft wide): Route survey, bridge engineering analysis, 2–4 week permit lead time

Pipeline Project Logistics Considerations

Pipe layer moves are often part of larger pipeline project logistics that include multiple machines moving in sequence along a right-of-way. Common scenarios include:

• Moving a fleet of 4–8 pipe layers from a completed pipeline segment to a new project start
• Transporting pipe layers from a storage yard or auction to a pipeline project mobilization point
• Repositioning machines mid-project as the pipeline progresses across state lines

For fleet moves, IronHaul can coordinate multiple permitted loads moving in convoy or on staggered schedules to meet project timelines.

Ship Your Pipe Layer with IronHaul Logistics

IronHaul Logistics has experience moving pipe layers of all size classes, from compact Cat 561s to massive Cat 587Ts. We handle permit procurement, route surveys, and multi-axle trailer coordination. Get a quote at ironhaullogistics.com, call (208) 495-2260, or email [email protected] with your machine model, boom transport width, and project locations.