How to Ship a Wheeled Excavator: Complete Transport Guide
Wheeled excavators — also called rubber-tired excavators — offer the mobility of a crawler machine with the ability to travel on paved roads under their own power, but shipping them long distances still requires a flatbed, step deck, or lowboy trailer depending on the machine's size and weight. Unlike crawler excavators, wheeled models can often be driven onto trailers without ramps, but their tire width and cab height still frequently trigger oversize permit requirements. This guide covers everything you need to know about transporting a wheeled excavator safely and legally.
Wheeled Excavator Size and Weight Ranges
Wheeled excavators span a wide range of sizes, from compact 8-ton models to large 30-ton machines. Understanding your machine's specifications is the first step in planning transport:
| Size Class | Operating Weight | Typical Width | Typical Height (cab) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact (e.g., Volvo EW60E) | 12,000–18,000 lbs | 7.5–8.5 ft | 9.5–10.5 ft |
| Mid-size (e.g., CAT M315) | 33,000–44,000 lbs | 8.0–9.0 ft | 10.0–11.5 ft |
| Large (e.g., Liebherr A924) | 55,000–66,000 lbs | 9.0–10.5 ft | 11.0–12.5 ft |
Most mid-size and large wheeled excavators exceed the 8.5-foot width threshold and require oversize permits. The cab height on most models, combined with trailer deck height, typically results in a total transport height of 13 to 14.5 feet — often triggering height permits as well.
Trailer Selection
The right trailer depends on your machine's weight and dimensions:
- Flatbed (48' or 53'): Suitable for compact wheeled excavators under 48,000 lbs that fit within standard height limits. The machine can typically be driven onto the trailer via ramps or a loading dock.
- Step Deck: A good option for mid-size wheeled excavators that are slightly over standard flatbed height limits. The lower rear deck provides additional height clearance.
- Lowboy / RGN: Required for large wheeled excavators over 50,000 lbs or machines that exceed 13.5 feet in total transport height. The RGN's detachable neck allows the machine to drive on from the front at ground level.
Preparing a Wheeled Excavator for Transport
Proper preparation ensures safe transport and protects your machine from damage:
- Retract the boom and stick: Fold the boom and stick fully to minimize overall length and lower the center of gravity. Secure the bucket to the trailer deck or remove it entirely for very long machines.
- Rotate the house to face forward: Position the upper structure (house) facing forward over the front axle to balance weight distribution on the trailer.
- Check tire pressure: Unlike crawler excavators, wheeled models have pneumatic tires that must be at the correct pressure for transport. Underinflated tires can cause instability on the trailer.
- Secure outriggers: If the machine has outriggers, ensure they are fully retracted and locked in the transport position.
- Document pre-existing condition: Photograph all sides of the machine before loading to document any pre-existing damage for insurance purposes.
Securement Requirements
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations require wheeled excavators to be secured at a minimum of four manufacturer-designated tie-down points using chains rated for the machine's weight. For a 40,000-lb wheeled excavator, a minimum of four 3/8-inch Grade 70 chains with appropriate binders is typically required. Drivers must check chain tension at the first stop after loading and every 150 miles thereafter.
Permit Requirements
Most wheeled excavators trigger oversize permit requirements in at least one dimension:
- Width: Machines over 8.5 feet wide require an oversize width permit in every state along the route.
- Height: Total transport height (machine height + trailer deck height) over 13.5 feet requires a height permit.
- Weight: Machines over 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight (machine + trailer + tractor) require an overweight permit.
Permit fees vary by state and load dimensions, typically ranging from $50 to $300 per state for standard oversize loads. Pilot car requirements are triggered at 12 feet wide in most states.
Cost Factors for Wheeled Excavator Transport
Shipping costs for a wheeled excavator depend on distance, machine size, and permit complexity. Typical ranges:
- Short haul (under 300 miles): $1,500–$3,500
- Mid-range (300–800 miles): $3,000–$6,500
- Long haul (over 800 miles): $5,500–$10,000+
Machines requiring pilot cars, police escorts, or superload permits will be priced higher. Non-running machines that require crane loading add $300–$800 to the total cost.
IronHaul Logistics specializes in wheeled excavator transport nationwide. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or use our online quote form to get a fast, accurate rate for your machine.
Common questions
Can a wheeled excavator be driven to its destination instead of shipped?
Wheeled excavators can travel on paved roads under their own power, but they are limited to low speeds (typically 20–35 mph) and cannot legally travel on highways in most states without permits and escort vehicles. For distances over 50 miles, trailer transport is almost always faster and more cost-effective.
What trailer is best for a mid-size wheeled excavator like a CAT M315?
A step deck or lowboy trailer is typically the best choice for a mid-size wheeled excavator. The lower deck height keeps the machine under the 13.5-foot height limit, and the machine can usually be driven onto the trailer via ramps. Your carrier will confirm based on your specific machine's dimensions.
Do wheeled excavators require oversize permits?
Most mid-size and large wheeled excavators exceed the 8.5-foot width threshold and require oversize width permits. Total transport height (machine + trailer deck) often exceeds 13.5 feet, triggering height permits as well. Your carrier will handle all permit applications.
How do I prepare a wheeled excavator for transport?
Retract the boom and stick fully, rotate the house to face forward, check tire pressure, secure all outriggers in the transport position, and photograph the machine before loading. Remove the bucket if the machine is very long or if it would exceed height limits.
How much does it cost to ship a wheeled excavator?
Costs range from $1,500 to $3,500 for short hauls under 300 miles, $3,000 to $6,500 for mid-range moves, and $5,500 to $10,000+ for long hauls over 800 miles. Machines requiring pilot cars or non-running loading assistance will be priced higher. Contact IronHaul for a specific quote.
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