How to Ship an Overhead Bridge Crane: Complete Transport Guide

Types of Overhead Cranes and Their Transport Characteristics

Overhead cranes come in several configurations, each with different disassembly and transport requirements:

• Single-Girder Bridge Crane: One main bridge beam spanning the runway rails. Spans typically 20–60 ft. Capacity typically 1–20 tons. The single girder is the primary transport challenge — long, heavy, and awkward to handle.
• Double-Girder Bridge Crane: Two parallel bridge beams. Spans typically 30–100+ ft. Capacity typically 5–100+ tons. Each girder must be transported separately for large cranes.
• Gantry Crane: A bridge crane that runs on ground-level rails rather than overhead runway rails. Legs extend down to the ground. Legs must be removed for transport in most cases.
• Jib Crane: A smaller, wall-mounted or floor-mounted crane with a horizontal boom. Generally easier to transport than bridge cranes; may ship on a flatbed without disassembly for smaller units.

Disassembly Requirements

Overhead bridge cranes are almost never transported as assembled units. The disassembly process typically involves:

• Bridge girder(s): The main structural beam(s) spanning the runway. For large cranes, each girder may be 40–100+ ft long and weigh 10,000–100,000+ lbs. Girders are typically the most challenging component to transport due to their length and weight.
• End trucks: The wheeled assemblies at each end of the bridge that run on the runway rails. End trucks are typically removed from the girder for transport and shipped separately or with the girder depending on size.
• Hoist and trolley: The lifting mechanism that travels along the bridge. Removed from the bridge and shipped separately, typically on a flatbed.
• Runway rails and structural steel: If the runway structure is also being relocated, rails and structural steel are bundled and shipped on flatbeds.
• Electrical components: Control panels, festoon systems, and cable reels are removed and crated for transport.

Trailer Selection by Component

Each crane component requires a trailer matched to its dimensions and weight:

• Bridge girder (short, under 53 ft): Standard flatbed or step deck, depending on height. Girder is typically laid flat on the trailer.
• Bridge girder (long, 53–100+ ft): Requires a stretch trailer (extendable flatbed) or a multi-trailer configuration with a jeep dolly at the rear. Oversize length permits required for loads over 65 ft.
• Heavy girder (over 48,000 lbs): Lowboy or RGN trailer required. Multi-axle configurations for very heavy girders.
• End trucks and hoist: Typically ship on a standard flatbed or step deck.
• Runway rails and structural steel: Bundle and ship on flatbeds. Long rails may require stretch trailers.

Permit Requirements for Crane Components

Crane components frequently trigger oversize permits due to their length, width, or weight:

• Length permits: Bridge girders over 65 ft require oversize length permits in most states. Some states have lower thresholds (e.g., 60 ft in Wyoming). Rear escort vehicles are typically required for loads over 75 ft long.
• Width permits: Wide girder sections or assembled end trucks may exceed 8.5 ft width, requiring oversize width permits and pilot cars.
• Weight permits: Heavy girders exceeding 80,000 lbs GVW require overweight permits. Multi-axle configurations are required to distribute weight legally.
• Route surveys: Long, heavy girder loads require route surveys to identify bridge weight limits, overhead clearances, and turning radius constraints.

Rigging and Loading Considerations

Loading crane components requires professional rigging equipment and expertise:

• Crane or forklift required: Bridge girders cannot be driven onto a trailer — they must be lifted by crane or forklift and set onto the trailer deck. Coordinate rigging equipment at both the origin and destination.
• Spreader bars: Long girders require spreader bars to distribute lifting forces and prevent bending during the lift.
• Blocking and cribbing: Girders must be properly blocked and cribbed on the trailer to prevent rolling or shifting during transport.
• Tarping: Electrical components and precision machined surfaces should be tarped to protect from weather during transport.

Planning a Multi-Component Crane Move

A complete overhead crane relocation typically involves multiple trucks and multiple days of rigging work. Key planning steps:

1. Inventory all crane components and measure each for transport
2. Determine trailer requirements for each component
3. Obtain permits for each load (some components may require separate permits)
4. Coordinate rigging equipment at origin and destination
5. Schedule all trucks to arrive at origin on the same day or in sequence to minimize rigging crew time
6. Confirm receiving facility has adequate rigging equipment and clearance for reassembly

Get a Quote for Overhead Crane Transport

IronHaul Logistics coordinates overhead bridge crane and gantry crane transport nationwide, including multi-truck moves for large industrial cranes. We work with rigging crews, manage permits for each component, and coordinate delivery sequencing to keep your crane relocation on schedule. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or use our online quote form to discuss your crane transport project.