How to Ship a Telehandler (Telescoping Handler): Trailer Types, Permits & Costs

Telehandler Dimensions and Weight

Telehandlers vary in size from compact models used in tight construction sites to large agricultural and industrial units with lift capacities exceeding 10,000 lbs. Transport specifications depend heavily on the specific model.

Always measure your specific machine with the boom fully retracted and the carriage in the lowest transport position. The boom must be fully retracted and secured before transport — never ship a telehandler with the boom extended.

Trailer Selection for Telehandlers

Step-Deck Trailer

Step-deck trailers (lower deck height approximately 42 inches) are the most common choice for compact and mid-size telehandlers. The lower deck reduces the loaded height, keeping most machines under the 13.5-foot legal limit without a height permit. For a machine with an 8.5-foot retracted height on a 42-inch step-deck, total loaded height is approximately 12.5 feet — within legal limits.

Lowboy / RGN Trailer

Large telehandlers with retracted heights over 9 feet often require a lowboy or RGN trailer to stay within the 13.5-foot height limit. RGN trailers (deck height approximately 18–24 inches) provide the most clearance and allow the machine to be driven onto the deck from ground level, which is particularly useful for telehandlers with limited ground clearance.

Flatbed Trailer

Flatbed trailers (deck height approximately 55 inches) are generally not recommended for telehandlers because the higher deck pushes loaded height close to or over the 13.5-foot limit for most models. Flatbeds may work for the smallest compact telehandlers, but step-decks are preferred.

Critical Pre-Transport Preparation

Telehandlers require specific preparation before loading to ensure safe transport:

• Retract the boom fully: The boom must be completely retracted and locked in the transport position. Extended booms create dangerous overhang and will fail height clearance checks.
• Lower the carriage: The forks or attachment should be in the lowest possible position, resting on the trailer deck or as close to it as possible.
• Engage the parking brake: Always engage the parking brake before securing.
• Stabilizers: If the machine has outrigger stabilizers, retract and secure them in the transport position.
• Fuel level: Drain fuel to a safe transport level if required by the carrier or state regulations (some states restrict fuel quantity for oversize loads).

Securement Requirements

Telehandlers must be secured against forward, rearward, lateral, and vertical movement per 49 CFR 393.130. Minimum requirements:

• At least four chains and binders — two forward, two rearward
• Chains attach to designated tie-down points on the machine frame (not to the boom, hydraulic cylinders, or axle components)
• The boom should be secured with an additional chain or strap to prevent any movement during transit
• Working load limit of each chain must be at least 25% of the machine's weight

Permit Requirements

Most telehandlers transport within legal dimensions when properly prepared (boom retracted, carriage lowered). Permits may be required if:

• The machine exceeds 8.5 feet in width (some large agricultural telehandlers with wide stabilizers)
• The loaded height exceeds 13.5 feet (large models on step-decks may approach this limit)
• The total GVW exceeds 80,000 lbs (unlikely for a single telehandler but possible with a heavy trailer configuration)

Cost Factors for Telehandler Transport

Telehandler transport pricing is similar to other mid-size construction equipment:

• Short hauls (under 200 miles): $500–$1,100
• Medium hauls (200–500 miles): $900–$1,800
• Long hauls (500+ miles): $1,400–$2,500+

Non-running telehandlers add $150–$300 for loading equipment coordination. Oversize permits add $150–$400 per state when required.

Auction and Dealer Telehandler Moves

Telehandlers are among the most frequently auctioned pieces of construction equipment. IronHaul regularly coordinates telehandler pickup from Ritchie Bros, IronPlanet, and Purple Wave auction yards nationwide. We handle all paperwork, coordinate loading windows with auction staff, and deliver to your jobsite, dealer lot, or storage yard.

Ready to ship your telehandler? IronHaul Logistics provides fast, reliable transport nationwide. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or request a quote online. We'll get your machine moving quickly and safely.