How to Ship a Stump Grinder: Trailer, Permits & Cost Guide

Stump Grinder Types and Transport Dimensions

Stump grinders are manufactured in several configurations, each with different transport requirements:

Type	Weight Range	Transport Width	Typical Trailer
Compact towable (residential)	2,000–4,000 lbs	4–5 ft	Standard flatbed or gooseneck
Mid-size self-propelled	4,000–12,000 lbs	5–7 ft	Flatbed or step deck
Large commercial self-propelled	12,000–20,000 lbs	7–9 ft	Step deck or lowboy
Industrial forestry grinder	20,000–35,000+ lbs	8–12 ft	Lowboy or RGN

The cutting wheel is the primary width concern for large stump grinders. Some industrial models have cutting wheels 5–6 ft in diameter that extend beyond the machine's track width. Confirm the transport width with the operator before booking — configurations exceeding 8.5 ft require an oversize permit.

Trailer Selection by Machine Size

• Compact towable grinders (under 4,000 lbs): Standard flatbed or gooseneck trailer. These units are typically within legal width and height and do not require oversize permits. Many can be towed by a pickup truck with the appropriate hitch rating.
• Mid-size self-propelled (4,000–12,000 lbs): Flatbed or step-deck trailer. Most mid-size units are within legal width (8.5 ft) and height (13.5 ft). Confirm loaded height before booking — the cutting wheel housing can be tall on some models.
• Large commercial (12,000–20,000 lbs): Step-deck or lowboy trailer. Units in this range may exceed 8.5 ft in width, requiring an oversize permit. The lower deck height of a step deck or lowboy helps manage overall loaded height.
• Industrial forestry grinders (20,000+ lbs): Lowboy or RGN trailer. Large industrial grinders almost always require oversize permits for width and may require overweight permits if the combined GVW exceeds 80,000 lbs. Drive-on loading via RGN is preferred for operational machines.

Loading and Securing a Stump Grinder

• Cutting wheel position: Lower the cutting wheel to its lowest transport position and lock it. Some models have a transport lock — confirm it is engaged before loading.
• Boom/arm position: Retract and secure any boom or arm extensions. These add to the machine's length and may require separate securement.
• Tie-down points: Use manufacturer-designated tie-down points only. FMCSA regulations (49 CFR 393.130) require a minimum of four tiedowns for equipment over 10,000 lbs. Never chain to the cutting wheel, hydraulic lines, or carbide teeth.
• Non-operational machines: If the grinder cannot start or move under its own power, notify IronHaul when booking. Non-operational machines require winch or crane loading.

Permit Requirements

Permit requirements depend on the machine's transport dimensions:

• Under 8.5 ft wide, under 13.5 ft tall, under 80,000 lbs GVW: No oversize permit required in most states.
• Over 8.5 ft wide: Width permit required; pilot car may be needed depending on state and width.
• Over 13.5 ft tall: Height permit required; route survey may be needed to check bridge clearances.
• Over 80,000 lbs GVW: Overweight permit required; additional trailer axles may be needed for weight distribution.

Cost Factors for Stump Grinder Shipping

• Compact towable (under 100 miles): $400–$1,200
• Mid-size self-propelled (under 500 miles): $800–$3,000
• Large commercial (under 500 miles): $1,500–$5,000
• Industrial forestry grinder (500+ miles): $3,000–$7,000+

Ready to ship your stump grinder? IronHaul Logistics handles transport coordination, permit procurement, and delivery logistics nationwide. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or request a quote online. Provide the machine's make, model, weight, and transport dimensions for the most accurate quote.