Excavator Shipping

Before pickup, confirm that your excavator is operational and can be safely moved or positioned for loading. Check that the engine starts reliably, hydraulic systems function for boom and arm movement, track drive motors operate properly, and the machine responds to controls. For wheeled excavators, verify tire condition and inflation.

If the excavator is not operational – due to engine failure, hydraulic issues, or track problems – disclose this to your SAC coordinator at booking. Non-operational excavators require specialized loading equipment such as a crane or heavy-duty wrecker with adequate lift capacity, which must be pre-arranged. Loading a non-operational excavator without proper equipment can damage the machine and create safety hazards.

Before transport, position the boom, arm (stick), and bucket according to manufacturer specifications for transport. Typically: lower the boom over the front of the machine, retract the arm fully toward the boom, and curl the bucket tight against the arm. This minimizes the transport envelope and protects hydraulic cylinders from damage.

Some larger excavators have specific transport lock pins or brackets for securing the boom and arm – engage these if equipped. Never transport with the boom raised or arm extended as this creates excessive height, length, and center of gravity issues. Verify hydraulic cylinders hold position without drifting. Your SAC coordinator will confirm the transport dimensions based on your positioning at booking.

Before transport, remove any loose attachments or secure them properly. Standard buckets should be curled tight and pinned if possible. Hydraulic thumbs should be fully retracted. Specialized attachments like hammers, grapples, or augers should be either removed and shipped separately or secured according to manufacturer guidelines to prevent movement.

For long-reach excavators with extendable arms, ensure the arm is retracted and secured in the transport position. For excavators with multiple attachment quick-couplers, verify the coupler is empty or has only the primary bucket attached. Document any attachments that have been removed so they can be reinstalled correctly at delivery.

Before transport, thoroughly clean mud, rocks, and debris from the excavator’s tracks, undercarriage, and sprockets. Heavy mud buildup adds unnecessary weight and can fall off during transit, creating road hazards. Clean tracks also allow the carrier driver to complete an accurate condition inspection and prevent debris from interfering with tie-down placement.

For excavators coming directly from muddy jobsites or wet conditions, allow time for proper cleaning before the carrier arrives. Pressure-wash the undercarriage if necessary. Pay attention to the track frame, idlers, and rollers where material accumulates. A clean machine produces a clearer Bill of Lading condition report and prevents weight-related issues at highway scales.

Inspect all visible hydraulic lines, fittings, and cylinders for leaks before pickup. Active hydraulic leaks create slip hazards during loading, can damage trailer decks, and may result in the carrier refusing to load. Repair known leaks before transport or disclose them to your coordinator in advance.

Ensure all hydraulic cylinders are properly positioned for transport with rods retracted into the cylinder barrels where possible to prevent damage. Cylinders with extended rods are vulnerable to damage from road debris and accidental contact. If the excavator has a blade or dozer attachment, ensure it is properly positioned and secured.

Before booking, measure your excavator’s overall length with boom and arm in transport position, width at the widest point (usually the tracks or blade), and height from ground to highest point (typically top of cab or boom). Accurate measurements are essential for correct trailer matching and permit assessment. Operating weight is the most critical factor for trailer selection.

Provide these dimensions to your SAC coordinator at booking: overall length in transport position, overall width at tracks, overall height with boom lowered, and operating weight from manufacturer specifications. Inaccurate information that results in the wrong carrier being dispatched can cause loading failures and costly rescheduling. Large excavators require very precise documentation for permit applications.

Before the pickup date, confirm that the loading site has adequate access for the transport method selected. For drive-on loading: firm, level ground capable of supporting the trailer and excavator weight, with appropriate ramp angle or loading dock. For crane loading: sufficient space for crane setup and clear overhead access.
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For remote or challenging sites – mining operations, swampy utility projects, or steep construction sites – discuss loading logistics with your SAC coordinator in advance. Some sites may require matting for soft ground or special loading procedures. Communicate any site hazards, access restrictions, or special requirements so the right carrier with appropriate capabilities is dispatched.