How to Ship a Telehandler (Telescoping Forklift): Complete Transport Guide

Telehandler Dimensions and Weight Ranges

Telehandler specifications vary significantly by lift capacity and reach. Understanding your machine's exact dimensions — including any attached accessories — is essential before booking transport.

Class	Lift Capacity	Transport Length	Transport Width	Transport Height	Operating Weight
Compact	5,000–8,000 lbs	14–17 ft	6–7 ft	6–7 ft	10,000–18,000 lbs
Standard	8,000–12,000 lbs	17–22 ft	7–8 ft	7–8 ft	18,000–28,000 lbs
High-Capacity	12,000–20,000 lbs	22–28 ft	8–9 ft	8–9 ft	28,000–45,000 lbs

Note: Attachments such as pallet forks, buckets, or man baskets add to the overall length and may affect height. Always measure with attachments in the transport position before booking.

Trailer Selection for Telehandlers

Most telehandlers can be shipped on a flatbed or step-deck trailer, making them one of the more economical heavy equipment loads. Trailer selection depends primarily on the machine's height in the transport position:

• Flatbed (48 ft or 53 ft): Suitable for compact and standard telehandlers with a transport height under 8.5 ft; most cost-effective option
• Step-Deck (Drop-Deck): Adds 18–24 inches of clearance compared to a flatbed; ideal for machines with a transport height of 8.5–10 ft
• RGN (Removable Gooseneck): Required for high-capacity telehandlers over 28,000 lbs or machines with a transport height over 10 ft; allows drive-on loading
• Lowboy: Used for the heaviest high-capacity units (40,000+ lbs) where deck height is critical for height compliance

Permit Requirements

Many telehandlers fall within legal dimensions and do not require oversize permits, particularly compact and standard models on flatbed trailers. However, high-capacity units and machines with wide attachments may trigger permits:

• Width permits: Required when the machine exceeds 8.5 ft wide; high-capacity units with wide stabilizers or attachments may trigger this
• Height permits: Required when the combined trailer deck + machine height exceeds 13.5 ft; verify with your carrier based on trailer type
• Weight permits: Required when the combined GVW exceeds 80,000 lbs; high-capacity units on multi-axle trailers may approach this threshold

Loading and Preparation

Proper preparation before the carrier arrives ensures safe loading and prevents damage during transit:

• Boom: Fully retract and lower the boom to the transport position; engage the boom lock if equipped
• Attachments: Remove pallet forks, buckets, or man baskets if they add significant length or height; secure or ship separately
• Stabilizers: Retract all stabilizer legs fully; verify they are locked in the transport position
• Fuel: Reduce to approximately 1/4 tank to minimize weight
• Battery: Disconnect the battery on electric models to prevent accidental operation
• Tie-down points: Telehandlers have designated tie-down points on the frame; use 4-point tie-down minimum with chains or straps rated for the machine's weight

Cost Factors for Telehandler Shipping

Telehandler shipping costs are generally lower than larger equipment because many units fit on standard flatbed trailers without oversize permits. Typical cost ranges:

• Short haul (under 300 miles): $400–$1,200 all-in (flatbed, no permits)
• Medium haul (300–800 miles): $1,200–$2,800 all-in
• Long haul (800+ miles): $2,800–$5,500 all-in
• Oversize surcharge: Add $300–$800 for loads requiring permits and pilot cars
• Fuel surcharges: Typically 20–28% of base rate, adjusted weekly

Get a Quote for Telehandler Shipping

IronHaul Logistics ships telehandlers of all sizes and brands — Manitou, JLG, Genie, Merlo, Caterpillar, and more. Our team will confirm your machine's dimensions, select the right trailer, and handle any required permits. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or fill out our online quote form for a free, no-obligation estimate.