How to Ship a Skid Steer Loader: Trailer Selection, Tie-Downs & Permits

Skid Steer Weight and Dimension Ranges

Skid steer loaders vary significantly in size. Understanding your machine's operating weight and transport dimensions is the first step in planning a shipment:

Frame Size	Operating Weight	Typical Width	Typical Height (ROPS)
Small-Frame	2,500–5,000 lbs	36–60 inches	6–7 ft
Medium-Frame	5,500–8,000 lbs	60–70 inches	6.5–7.5 ft
Large-Frame	8,500–11,000+ lbs	70–80 inches	7–8 ft

Compact track loaders (CTLs) — the rubber-tracked cousins of wheeled skid steers — fall in similar weight ranges but are slightly wider and heavier on average. Always measure your specific machine in transport position, including any attached bucket or forks.

Trailer Selection for Skid Steer Transport

Most skid steers can be transported on a standard flatbed or step-deck trailer, which keeps costs lower than a full lowboy setup. Here's how to choose:

• Flatbed (48 ft): Works well for small- and medium-frame skid steers under 8.5 ft wide and 13.5 ft tall. The machine is driven up a rear ramp and secured with chains. Most cost-effective option.
• Step-Deck (Drop-Deck): Provides an extra 18–24 inches of deck clearance. Recommended when the skid steer with ROPS cage approaches or exceeds 10 ft in height on a standard flatbed. Also useful when shipping alongside other equipment.
• Lowboy: Rarely needed for skid steers unless the machine is exceptionally heavy (over 20,000 lbs with attachments) or the job site requires a ground-level ramp for loading. More commonly used for larger tracked equipment.
• Hot Shot (Gooseneck Trailer): A cost-effective option for single small-frame skid steers on shorter regional hauls. Typically a 3.5- to 5-ton capacity gooseneck trailer pulled by a heavy-duty pickup.

DOT Tie-Down Requirements for Skid Steers

Federal FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Part 393) govern how skid steers must be secured during transport. Key requirements:

• Minimum tie-downs: Equipment over 10,000 lbs requires a minimum of four tie-downs — one at each independent corner. Equipment under 10,000 lbs requires at least two tie-downs (front and rear).
• Working Load Limit (WLL): The combined WLL of all tie-downs must equal at least 50% of the cargo's total weight. Always use the WLL of the weakest component in the chain.
• Attachment points: Use manufacturer-designated tie-down points only. Never chain to hydraulic lines, cylinders, or the bucket itself.
• Bucket position: Lower the bucket fully to the deck or trailer surface. Secure it independently with a separate chain or strap if it can shift.
• Parking brake: Set the parking brake and block the tires or tracks front and rear.

Permit Requirements

Most skid steers ship within standard legal limits and require no oversize permits. However, permits may be needed when:

• The machine plus trailer exceeds 8.5 ft in width (uncommon for skid steers, but possible with wide-bucket attachments)
• The loaded trailer exceeds 13.5 ft in height
• Gross vehicle weight exceeds 80,000 lbs (rare for a single skid steer, but possible on a multi-unit load)

When shipping multiple skid steers on one trailer, weight adds up quickly. A carrier stacking two large-frame machines must carefully calculate axle weights to stay within legal limits or obtain the appropriate overweight permits.

Preparing Your Skid Steer for Shipment

1. Measure in transport position: Record height, width, and length with the bucket lowered and any attachments in their transport configuration.
2. Remove loose items: Take off any detachable forks, augers, or grapples that aren't being shipped with the machine, or secure them separately.
3. Fuel level: Reduce fuel to approximately 1/4 tank to minimize weight and reduce spill risk.
4. Document condition: Photograph all four sides before pickup for insurance purposes.
5. Confirm site access: Ensure the pickup and delivery locations have firm, level ground accessible by a semi-truck and trailer.

Shipping Cost Factors for Skid Steers

Skid steer transport is generally more affordable than larger equipment because standard trailers can be used. Typical cost drivers include:

• Distance (rates typically $1.50–$3.50/mile for regional hauls)
• Frame size and weight (larger machines may require a heavier-rated trailer)
• Number of units on the load (multi-unit loads can reduce per-unit cost)
• Pickup/delivery site accessibility
• Fuel surcharges and seasonal demand

Ship Your Skid Steer with IronHaul Logistics

IronHaul Logistics moves skid steers and compact track loaders nationwide — from auction pickups to dealer-to-dealer transfers to job site relocations. Our drivers know how to load, secure, and deliver compact equipment safely. Get a free quote at ironhaullogistics.com, call (208) 495-2260, or email [email protected] with your machine's make, model, and pickup/delivery locations.