Forestry & Logging Equipment Transport: Skidders, Feller Bunchers, Harvesters & More

Common Forestry Equipment Types and Transport Weights

The forestry industry uses a wide variety of specialized machines, each with distinct transport characteristics:

Representative examples: John Deere 648 skidder (~42,500 lbs), Tigercat 625H skidder (~50,000+ lbs, 130+ in wide), John Deere 753J feller buncher (~70,000 lbs, 29 ft long, 10 ft 4 in wide, 11 ft 4 in tall). Always verify the specific machine's operating weight and dimensions from the manufacturer's spec sheet before booking transport.

Width: The Most Common Permit Trigger

Width is the most frequent permit trigger for forestry equipment. Many skidders and feller bunchers exceed the standard 8 ft 6 in legal width limit due to their wide tires and bogie axle configurations. A machine that is 9 ft wide requires an oversize permit in every state traversed. A machine that is 10 ft wide may require escort vehicles in some states. Machines exceeding 12 ft in width require escort vehicles in virtually all states.

Before booking transport, measure the machine's widest point—including any protruding tire sidewalls, fender extensions, or attachment hardware—and confirm this measurement with the carrier.

Cutting Head and Attachment Management

Feller bunchers and harvesters operate with large cutting heads (saw heads, disc heads, or shear heads) that must be managed before transport:

• Cutting head removal: Most cutting heads can be removed with a quick coupler and transported separately. Removing the head reduces overall length and height, and eliminates the risk of the head shifting during transit.
• Boom and arm position: The boom and arm must be lowered and secured in the transport position. The cutting head, if left attached, must be secured to prevent rotation or movement.
• Grapple skidders: The grapple must be closed and secured for transport. Open grapples can catch wind and create instability at highway speeds.

Tire and Track Considerations

Forestry equipment uses specialized tires and tracks designed for off-road performance:

• Large flotation tires: Skidders and forwarders use large flotation tires (up to 30.5 x 32 or larger) that can be 4–5 feet in diameter. These tires are not designed for highway speeds and must be protected during transport. Tire chains or protective covers may be required for long-distance moves.
• Tracked machines: Tracked feller bunchers and harvesters require RGN trailers for ground-level loading. The tracks must be inspected for debris (mud, rocks, bark) before loading to prevent damage to the trailer deck.

Seasonal Considerations for Forestry Equipment Transport

Forestry operations are highly seasonal, and equipment transport follows the same patterns:

• Spring breakup: Many logging roads and forest access roads are closed or weight-restricted during spring thaw (typically February–May in northern states). Equipment moves during this period must be planned carefully to avoid getting machines stranded on restricted roads.
• Spring weight restrictions: Many states impose spring weight restrictions on secondary roads during thaw, which can affect the last mile of delivery to remote logging sites.
• Summer fire season: In western states, forest road closures due to wildfire can affect equipment moves. Carriers should monitor USFS and state forestry road closure maps.
• Winter moves: Winter is often the best time for forestry equipment transport in northern states, as frozen ground allows access to remote sites. However, winter weather can affect highway transport and permit travel windows.

Cost Factors for Forestry Equipment Transport

Transport costs for forestry equipment are driven by: machine weight and dimensions (width is the primary cost driver), distance, number of states traversed (each requires its own permit), escort vehicle requirements, and seasonal factors (spring weight restrictions, fire season closures). Typical costs range from approximately $2,500 for smaller equipment on short hauls to over $15,000 for heavy harvesting machines on long-distance moves.

IronHaul Logistics has experience transporting forestry and logging equipment for timber companies, equipment dealers, and auction buyers. We understand the unique loading requirements, seasonal considerations, and permit complexities of forestry equipment transport. Call (208) 495-2260, email [email protected], or request a quote online.