Shipping a Pull-Type Scraper: Transport Requirements and Best Practices
Pull-type scrapers range from compact agricultural land-leveling units towed by farm tractors to massive construction-class earthmovers like the Caterpillar 657G, which weighs over 160,000 lbs empty and stretches more than 53 feet long. Transporting these machines requires careful attention to their extreme length, width, and weight — all of which typically exceed standard permit thresholds. This guide covers the full spectrum of pull-type scraper transport, from compact ag scrapers to heavy construction units.
Pull-Type Scraper Size and Weight Ranges
Pull-type scrapers vary enormously in size depending on their application. Understanding which class your machine falls into determines the trailer type, permit requirements, and cost of transport:
| Class | Examples | Approx. Weight | Approx. Length | Approx. Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural (compact) | Bush Hog DSP, Ashland 50CS | 3,000–8,000 lbs | 12–20 ft | 8–12 ft |
| Mid-size construction | Cat 613, Volvo S100B | 30,000–60,000 lbs | 30–40 ft | 10–12 ft |
| Large construction | Cat 657G, Cat 651 | 149,000–160,000 lbs (empty) | 53+ ft | 14+ ft |
The Caterpillar 657G, one of the largest pull-type scrapers in production, has an overall length of 53.1 ft, a width of 14.3 ft, and an empty shipping weight of approximately 160,505 lbs — making it one of the most complex pieces of earthmoving equipment to transport legally on public roads.
Permit Requirements by Scraper Class
Agricultural and Compact Scrapers
Compact agricultural scrapers (under 8.5 ft wide and under 80,000 lbs) may not require oversize/overweight permits if transported on an appropriate trailer. However, many ag scrapers exceed 8.5 ft in transport width, triggering oversize permit requirements. Always confirm transport dimensions before assuming no permit is needed.
Mid-Size Construction Scrapers
Mid-size construction scrapers typically exceed 8.5 ft width and 80,000 lbs GVW, requiring both oversize and overweight permits. Escort vehicle requirements depend on width: front escort for loads over 12 ft wide, front and rear for loads over 14 ft wide.
Large Construction Scrapers (Cat 657G Class)
Large construction scrapers like the Cat 657G require superload permits in most states due to their extreme weight (160,000+ lbs) and width (14+ ft). Superload permits require engineering review of the transport route, bridge analysis, and extended lead times (typically 10–20 business days). These moves also require multiple escort vehicles and often a law enforcement escort through certain jurisdictions.
Trailer Selection for Pull-Type Scrapers
- Agricultural scrapers: Typically transported on a flatbed or step-deck trailer. The tractor used to pull the scraper is often transported separately or on the same trailer if dimensions allow.
- Mid-size construction scrapers: Require an RGN lowboy or heavy-duty step-deck. The scraper bowl must be lowered and secured for transport.
- Large construction scrapers (Cat 657G class): Require a multi-axle hydraulic platform trailer or specialized heavy-haul lowboy with 8–12 axles to distribute the extreme weight within per-axle limits. These moves are highly specialized and require experienced heavy-haul carriers.
Loading and Securing Pull-Type Scrapers
Loading procedures vary significantly by scraper class:
- Compact ag scrapers: Typically loaded with a forklift or by driving the tractor and scraper combination onto a flatbed via ramps. The scraper bowl is lowered and the cutting edge secured.
- Mid-size scrapers: Loaded via RGN ramp under their own power (if self-propelled) or towed onto the trailer. The bowl must be fully lowered and the apron secured. Tie-down chains attach to designated frame tie-down points.
- Large scrapers: Require specialized rigging and may need to be partially disassembled (push-pull connections removed, bowl partially disassembled) to meet width and height limits. A rigging crew is typically required for these moves.
Common Challenges in Scraper Transport
- Extreme length: Large scrapers over 53 ft long create significant rear overhang on most trailers, requiring rear escort vehicles and overhang flags/lights.
- Width at the bowl: The scraper bowl is often the widest point of the machine. Confirm bowl width in transport position before booking.
- Ground clearance: Some scrapers have low ground clearance at the cutting edge. Confirm the trailer deck height and loading ramp angle to avoid grounding the cutting edge during loading.
- Superload lead times: Large scraper moves require 2–4 weeks of lead time for superload permit processing. Plan accordingly.
Get a Quote to Ship Your Pull-Type Scraper
IronHaul Logistics handles pull-type scraper transport from compact agricultural units to Cat 657G-class superloads. We coordinate permits, escort vehicles, specialized trailers, and rigging crews for every load. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or fill out our online quote form to get a fast, accurate rate for your scraper shipment.
Common questions
What trailer is needed to ship a large pull-type scraper like a Cat 657G?
Large construction scrapers like the Cat 657G require a multi-axle hydraulic platform trailer or specialized heavy-haul lowboy with 8–12 axles to distribute the extreme weight (160,000+ lbs) within per-axle limits. These are highly specialized moves.
Do pull-type scrapers require superload permits?
Large construction scrapers (Cat 657G class) typically require superload permits due to their extreme weight (160,000+ lbs) and width (14+ ft). Superload permits require engineering review and 10–20 business days of lead time. Compact ag scrapers may only need standard oversize permits.
How long does it take to get permits for a large scraper transport?
Standard oversize permits for mid-size scrapers take 3–7 business days. Superload permits for large scrapers (Cat 657G class) require 10–20 business days for engineering review. Plan your move timeline accordingly.
Can a pull-type scraper be transported without disassembly?
Compact and mid-size scrapers can typically be transported intact. Large scrapers (Cat 657G class) may require partial disassembly (push-pull connections, bowl components) to meet width and height permit limits. IronHaul will advise on disassembly requirements based on your machine's specs.
How much does it cost to ship a pull-type scraper?
Costs vary enormously by scraper class and distance. Compact ag scrapers may ship for $800–$2,500. Large construction scrapers (Cat 657G class) can cost $10,000–$50,000+ for superload moves. Contact IronHaul at (208) 495-2260 or [email protected] for a precise quote.
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