How to Ship a Telescopic Boom Lift

Telescopic Boom Lift Size Classes and Transport Profiles

Telescopic boom lifts are manufactured in a wide range of working heights, from 40-foot models to 185-foot ultra-high-reach machines. Transport requirements vary significantly by size:

Working Height	Stowed Length	Stowed Width	Stowed Height	Operating Weight	Typical Trailer
40–60 ft	18–24 ft	7–8 ft	6–7.5 ft	12,000–18,000 lbs	Flatbed or step deck
60–80 ft	24–30 ft	7.5–8.5 ft	7–8.5 ft	18,000–28,000 lbs	Step deck
80–120 ft	28–36 ft	8–9 ft	8–10 ft	28,000–45,000 lbs	Step deck or lowboy
120–185 ft	36–50 ft	9–11 ft	9–12 ft	45,000–80,000 lbs	Lowboy / RGN

Note: Dimensions vary by manufacturer and model. Always verify exact stowed dimensions from the machine's spec sheet or serial number lookup before booking transport.

Key Difference: Telescopic vs. Articulating Boom Lifts

Telescopic boom lifts have a "stick" that extends straight out from the turntable. In the stowed position, this stick often overhangs the counterweight at the rear of the machine, making the stowed length longer than it appears. This overhang is a critical measurement for trailer selection and permit applications — many shippers underestimate the stowed length of a telescopic boom lift because they measure only the chassis, not the full boom overhang.

Pre-Transport Preparation

1. Verify exact stowed dimensions: Look up the machine's make, model, and serial number to confirm stowed height, width, and length including boom overhang. Do not estimate — incorrect dimensions lead to wrong trailer selection and permit errors.
2. Retract and secure the boom: Fully retract the telescopic boom and ensure it is seated in its cradle or rest position. Engage the boom lock or transport pin if equipped.
3. Lock the turntable: Engage the turntable lock to prevent the upper structure from rotating during transit. Most boom lifts have a dedicated turntable lock pin or lever.
4. Rotate the platform: Rotate the work platform to align with the chassis centerline and secure it in the transport position.
5. Remove pipe racks and accessories: Pipe racks, material trays, and other accessories can alter the machine's dimensions and must be removed or secured before transport.
6. Check fuel and battery: Reduce fuel to 1/4 tank. For electric models, ensure the battery is charged enough to drive onto the trailer but disconnect after loading.
7. Document condition: Photograph all four sides, the hour meter, and the serial plate before pickup. This documentation is essential for insurance claims if damage occurs during transport.

Trailer Selection

The choice of trailer depends on the boom lift's stowed height and weight:

• Flatbed (48 ft, deck height 48–54 inches): Suitable for smaller boom lifts (40–60 ft working height) with stowed heights under 8 feet. Total transport height must be under 13.5 ft.
• Step deck (rear deck height 36–40 inches): The most common trailer for mid-size boom lifts (60–100 ft working height). The lower rear deck provides extra height clearance, keeping most machines under the 13.5 ft legal limit.
• Lowboy (deck height 18–24 inches): Required for large boom lifts (100+ ft working height) with stowed heights over 10 feet. The low deck keeps the total transport height within legal limits.
• RGN (removable gooseneck): Preferred for very large or non-running boom lifts. The detachable gooseneck allows the machine to be driven or winched onto the trailer at ground level.

Securement Procedures

FMCSA regulations require boom lifts to be secured with chains and binders at manufacturer-specified tie-down points:

• Use at least 4 tie-down points — typically the front axle frame and rear chassis frame
• Never attach chains or straps to hydraulic cylinders, hoses, the boom, or the work platform
• Use Grade 70 or Grade 80 chains with binders rated for the machine's weight
• Place wheel chocks fore and aft of all tires
• Re-check all tie-downs after the first 50 miles of travel — loads settle during initial transit

Permit Requirements

Boom lifts with stowed widths over 8 feet 6 inches require oversize permits. Large boom lifts (120+ ft working height) often exceed this threshold. Additionally:

• Loads over 10 ft wide require "WIDE LOAD" banners in most states
• Loads over 12 ft wide require escort vehicles in most states
• Loads over 13.5 ft tall require route surveys to verify bridge and utility clearances
• Loads over 80,000 lbs GVW require overweight permits in addition to oversize permits

Need to ship a telescopic boom lift? IronHaul Logistics handles trailer selection, permit procurement, and securement for boom lifts of all sizes. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or get a quote online.