Oversized & Heavy Equipment Shipping

Before pickup, provide your SAC coordinator with precise measurements: overall length, width, and height in the transport configuration; operating weight; and the center of gravity location if known. Oversized and heavy equipment often has variable dimensions based on boom position, attachment configuration, or component positioning. Measure in the actual transport configuration you intend to use.

Inaccurate dimensions that result in the wrong carrier being dispatched can cause loading failures, permit violations, and costly rescheduling. A carrier arriving with a 5-axle trailer for a load requiring 9 axles cannot complete the pickup. Accurate specs at booking prevent these scenarios entirely.

Before the carrier arrives, position the equipment in its minimum transport dimensions. Retract booms, buckets, and attachments to their shortest configuration. Lower any height-extending components. Fold or remove protrusions that increase width. Secure all movable components in the transport position using factory locks, transport pins, or chains where provided.

For equipment with articulation joints, pivot points, or rotating components, ensure these are locked or secured for transport. Document any components that have been removed for separate shipment. The transport configuration you establish determines the permit requirements and trailer matching – changes after booking can invalidate permits.

Before transport, remove or secure any loose components that are not permanently attached. This includes removable buckets, auxiliary attachments, loose hydraulic lines, and any aftermarket accessories that could shift or detach during transit. Clean out the operator compartment and any storage areas.

For equipment with quick-attach systems, confirm that attachment pins are fully seated and secured or remove the attachments entirely. Any component that could shift during highway transit should be either removed and shipped separately or properly secured with chains or binders. Document any components that have been removed so they can be reinstalled correctly at delivery.

Many states have agricultural pest, weed seed, or environmental regulations that require equipment moving between states to be free of soil, plant material, and organic debris. Clean the equipment thoroughly before pickup – particularly tracks, tires, undercarriage, and any soil-contact surfaces.

Inspect all visible hydraulic lines, fittings, and cylinders for leaks. Active hydraulic leaks create slip hazards during loading and may result in the carrier refusing to load. Check that all fluid caps are secure and that the fuel tank is appropriately filled for loading operations. For long-distance transport, consider fuel levels and battery condition for equipment that will be started at delivery.

Before pickup, identify the manufacturer-specified tie-down points on the equipment frame. These are the only appropriate locations for securing chains and binders – never secure to hydraulic lines, hoses, fragile components, or non-structural elements. Mark or communicate these points to your SAC coordinator so the carrier arrives prepared with the correct rigging approach.

For equipment without clearly marked tie-down points, consult the manufacturer’s transport guidelines or have a qualified technician identify appropriate securing locations. Improper tie-down placement can damage equipment, create safety hazards, and result in load rejection by the carrier.

Before the pickup date, confirm that the pickup location has adequate access for a heavy-haul carrier and appropriate loading equipment. Oversized and heavy equipment may require cranes, heavy forklifts, or specialized loading systems. Confirm that any required loading equipment is available, properly rated for the equipment weight, and scheduled for the pickup window.

Assess site access: Can the carrier trailer reach the equipment location? Are there weight-restricted bridges, low clearances, or narrow approaches? Is the ground stable enough to support the carrier and loading operations? Communicate any limitations to your SAC coordinator so alternative staging or specialized equipment can be arranged if needed.

Before pickup, photograph the equipment thoroughly from all angles – front, rear, both sides, undercarriage, attachment points, and any existing damage or wear points. Time-stamp the photos and retain them for comparison at delivery. The carrier driver will complete a Bill of Lading condition report; review it against your documentation before signing.

At the delivery location, confirm that the site can accommodate the carrier and provide safe unloading conditions. Unpaved roads, soft ground, steep grades, limited turnaround space, or overhead obstructions can create challenges for heavy-haul carriers. If the delivery site has access limitations, discuss alternative staging locations with your coordinator before the shipment is dispatched.