How to Ship a Reach Stacker Container Handler: Complete Transport Guide

Reach Stacker Dimensions and Weight

Reach stackers are built to handle loaded containers weighing up to 120,000 lbs, which means the machines themselves are extraordinarily heavy and robust. Common manufacturers include Taylor Machine Works, Konecranes, Liebherr, Toyota, and CVS Ferrari.

Specification	Typical Range	Notes
Machine Weight (empty)	90,000–130,000+ lbs	Varies significantly by model and capacity
Transport Length	40–55 feet	Boom/mast in lowest transport position
Transport Width	12–16+ feet	Almost always oversize — wide load permits required
Transport Height	13–17+ feet	Mast height in lowest position; often oversize
Wheelbase	250+ inches	Long wheelbase for stability during stacking

The width of a reach stacker is almost always over the 8.5 ft legal limit — most models are 12–16 ft wide. This means wide-load permits and escort vehicles are required for virtually every reach stacker transport on public roads.

Trailer Selection for Reach Stackers

Given their extreme weight and width, reach stackers require specialized heavy-haul trailers:

• Multi-axle RGN (Removable Gooseneck): The most common choice for reach stackers. Multi-axle configurations (8–20+ axles) distribute the machine's weight across many axle groups to comply with bridge formula requirements. The removable gooseneck allows the machine to drive onto the trailer under its own power.
• Hydraulic Platform Trailer (Goldhofer/Scheuerle): For the heaviest reach stackers (130,000+ lbs), hydraulic platform trailers with self-steering axles provide the weight distribution and maneuverability needed for complex moves. These are typically used for port-to-port or terminal-to-terminal moves.
• Double Drop Deck: Occasionally used for lighter reach stackers (under 80,000 lbs) where height is the primary concern. Less common due to the width issue.

Permit Requirements

Reach stacker transports almost universally require multiple permits:

• Width permit: Required in every state — reach stackers are 12–16+ ft wide, far exceeding the 8.5 ft legal limit. Width permits are required in every state traversed.
• Height permit: Required when loaded height exceeds 13.5 ft. Most reach stackers on a multi-axle RGN load to 14–17 ft, requiring height permits.
• Overweight permit: Required when GVW exceeds 80,000 lbs. Most reach stacker transports exceed this threshold significantly. Multi-axle configurations are used to comply with per-axle weight limits.
• Superload designation: Reach stackers over 150,000 lbs GVW (machine + trailer + tractor) may be classified as superloads in many states, requiring route surveys, bridge analysis, and state police escorts.
• Escort vehicles: Required in all states for loads over 14 ft wide. Some states require two escorts (front and rear) for loads over 16 ft wide.

Route Planning for Reach Stacker Moves

The extreme width and weight of reach stackers require careful route planning:

• Bridge analysis: Every bridge on the route must be analyzed for the specific axle configuration and weight distribution of the loaded transport. This is typically done by a licensed engineer and submitted with the permit application.
• Overhead clearance: Height permits specify the maximum height of the load. Routes must be surveyed for overhead obstructions (bridges, power lines, traffic signals) that may be below the permit height.
• Turn radius: The long wheelbase of a reach stacker on a multi-axle trailer creates a very large turning radius. Routes must be planned to avoid tight turns, roundabouts, and narrow intersections.
• Travel time restrictions: Wide loads are typically restricted to daylight hours and prohibited on weekends and holidays in many states. This can significantly extend transit time for long-distance moves.

Preparing a Reach Stacker for Transport

• Lower the boom/mast: The boom must be fully lowered to its minimum transport height. Verify the hydraulic system is depressurized and the boom is locked in position.
• Remove the spreader: The container spreader (the attachment that grips containers) should be removed if possible to reduce width and weight. Spreaders are typically transported separately on a flatbed.
• Drain fluids: Fuel tanks should be reduced to a safe transport level (typically 25% or less) to reduce weight. Hydraulic fluid levels should be checked and secured.
• Secure loose components: All loose attachments, tools, and components must be removed or secured. Check the cab for loose items.
• Provide accurate weight: The carrier needs the machine's verified weight (not the rated lifting capacity) for permit procurement. Weigh the machine if the manufacturer's spec sheet is unavailable.

Get a Quote for Your Reach Stacker Shipment

IronHaul Logistics has experience moving reach stackers and other heavy port equipment nationwide. Our team handles multi-axle trailer coordination, superload permit procurement, bridge analysis, and escort vehicle arrangement. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or fill out our online quote form with your machine's make, model, and verified weight for a fast, accurate rate.