How to Ship a Telescoping Boom Lift: Complete Transport Guide
Telescoping (straight) boom lifts are among the most commonly transported pieces of aerial work platform equipment in the construction and industrial sectors. Ranging from compact 40-foot models weighing around 12,000 lbs to large 185-foot machines exceeding 100,000 lbs, these machines require careful trailer selection, proper tie-down rigging, and — for larger models — oversize permits. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping a telescoping boom lift safely and legally.
Telescoping Boom Lift Size and Weight Ranges
Telescoping boom lifts vary significantly in size depending on working height and platform capacity. Key specifications by class:
| Class | Working Height | Stowed Length | Stowed Width | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (40–60 ft) | 40–60 ft | 20–28 ft | 5.5–6.5 ft | 12,000–20,000 lbs |
| Mid-Size (60–100 ft) | 60–100 ft | 28–38 ft | 7–8 ft | 20,000–40,000 lbs |
| Large (100–150 ft) | 100–150 ft | 38–50 ft | 8–9 ft | 40,000–70,000 lbs |
| Extra Large (150+ ft) | 150–185 ft | 50–65 ft | 9–12 ft | 70,000–110,000 lbs |
Always verify the exact stowed dimensions and operating weight from the manufacturer's spec sheet before booking transport. Actual weights can vary significantly between models from different manufacturers (JLG, Genie, Skyjack, Manitou).
Trailer Selection
The right trailer depends on the boom lift's stowed height, width, and weight:
- Flatbed (48–53 ft): Suitable for small boom lifts (40–60 ft working height) that are under 8.5 ft wide and under 8.5 ft tall when loaded on the deck. The flatbed deck sits approximately 4.5–5 ft off the ground, so the machine's stowed height plus deck height must stay under 13.5 ft for legal travel without a height permit.
- Step Deck: The lower rear deck (approximately 3.5 ft off the ground) provides 12–18 inches of additional clearance compared to a flatbed. Ideal for mid-size boom lifts that are 9–10.5 ft tall in stowed position. Most commonly used trailer type for 60–100 ft boom lifts.
- RGN (Removable Gooseneck): The lowest deck option (approximately 18–20 inches off the ground). Required when the boom lift must drive on/off the trailer under its own power, or when the machine is too tall for a step deck. Standard for large and extra-large boom lifts.
Permit Requirements
Federal thresholds that trigger oversize/overweight permit requirements:
- Width: Over 8.5 ft — most mid-size and larger boom lifts exceed this
- Height: Over 13.5 ft total (trailer deck + machine height)
- Weight: Over 80,000 lbs GVW — applies to large and extra-large models
- Length: Over 53 ft — applies to extra-large models on standard trailers
Loads wider than 12 ft require pilot car escorts in most states. Loads wider than 14–16 ft may require two escorts (front and rear) and travel restricted to daylight hours. Permit fees typically range from $50–$200 per state for standard oversize loads.
Loading and Tie-Down Requirements
Proper loading and securement is critical for boom lift transport:
- Retract the boom fully and lower the platform to the stowed position before loading
- Engage the transport lock (if equipped) to prevent boom movement during transit
- Remove all loose items from the platform — tools, harnesses, and accessories must be secured separately
- Use a minimum of 4 tie-down chains rated for the machine's weight, attached to designated tie-down points (consult the operator's manual for locations)
- Chock the wheels front and rear to prevent rolling
- For machines with outriggers, ensure all outriggers are fully retracted and pinned
Non-Running Boom Lifts
If the boom lift is non-running or cannot be driven onto the trailer, a forklift or crane will be needed for loading. Inform your carrier in advance — this affects trailer selection (an RGN may be required even for smaller machines) and may add rigging costs of $200–$500. IronHaul can coordinate rigging services at pickup and delivery locations.
Cost Factors for Boom Lift Transport
Key cost drivers include: machine weight and dimensions, trailer type required, distance, number of states crossed (permit fees per state), pilot car requirements for wide loads, and any rigging needed for non-running machines. Small boom lifts on short lanes can move for $500–$1,500. Large boom lifts on cross-country moves can cost $5,000–$15,000 or more depending on permits and escorts.
Need to ship a telescoping boom lift? IronHaul Logistics handles boom lift transport nationwide. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or request a quote online. We'll confirm your machine's dimensions, recommend the right trailer, and handle all permits and carrier coordination.
Common questions
What trailer do I need to ship a 120-foot telescoping boom lift?
A 120-foot boom lift typically weighs 50,000–70,000 lbs and has a stowed width of 8–9 ft. Most require a step deck or RGN trailer. We'll confirm the exact trailer based on your machine's spec sheet.
Do I need an oversize permit to ship a boom lift?
Most mid-size and larger boom lifts exceed 8.5 ft in width and require oversize permits in every state on the route. IronHaul handles all permit coordination as part of our service.
Can you ship a non-running boom lift?
Yes. Non-running boom lifts require a forklift or crane for loading. Inform us in advance and we'll coordinate rigging at both pickup and delivery. This may affect trailer selection and add a small rigging fee.
How long does it take to ship a boom lift across the country?
Cross-country moves (e.g., California to Texas) typically take 3–5 transit days. Permit processing adds 1–3 business days. IronHaul will give you a firm delivery window when you book.
What tie-down points should I use on a telescoping boom lift?
Tie-down points are marked in the operator's manual and typically located on the frame near the axles. Use a minimum of 4 chains rated for the machine's weight. Never chain to the boom, platform, or outrigger arms.
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