Shipping Large Equipment

FAQs About Shipping Large Equipment – What You Need To Know

If you want to ship large industrial equipment, such as construction equipment, mining equipment, farm equipment, or any other kind, you may have many questions about the process. This guide from A-1 Auto Transport is here to help.

We’ll discuss a few of the most common questions that customers ask when shipping large, heavy equipment, and provide you with all the answers you need to ship your machinery and equipment confidently. Let’s get started.

What Is The Average Cost Of Shipping Large Equipment?

The cost of shipping large equipment is usually somewhere between $1.75 per mile for long-haul jobs and can be as high as $5 per mile for short-haul jobs. The cost depends on various factors, including the size and weight of the equipment, whether or not it’s self-propelled, how far it’s being shipped, and more.

Let’s discuss a few of these factors in more detail now.

• Distance of shipment – The per-mile rate falls as the distance of your shipment grows. For example, a 50-mile trip may cost $4 per mile, but a 1,000-mile trip may be charged at $2 per mile. However, you’ll still pay more for a longer trip, even though the per-mile rate is lower.
• Size and weight of equipment. Another main determining factor in the cost of shipping your large equipment is its overall dimensions and weight. Larger, bulkier equipment will almost always be more expensive to move than smaller equipment.
• Self-propulsion – A self-propelled piece of equipment like a skid steer, bulldozer, or tractor can be simply driven on and off a trailer during shipment, simplifying the process immensely. Equipment that is stationary or is not self-propelled will be more expensive and complex to load and unload.
• Oversize load designation – Oversize loads are always more expensive to transport than standard loads and must meet several state and federal requirements to be transported legally and safely. In most cases, your shipping company must also hire one or more pilot cars. Sometimes, oversized load designation is unavoidable, but it will constantly add more costs to your shipping job.
• Availability of shipping jobs near your destination – This can be a concern when shipping goods like farm equipment to rural areas 100-200 miles or further from a population center. If there are no freight jobs near your destination, the driver must “deadhead” to the nearest job, adding more costs to your shipping job.

Will My Large Equipment Qualify As an Oversized Load?

The short answer is: it depends. Oversize load classifications vary from state to state. For example, what’s considered standard in Ohio might be oversized in New York. Most states generally define equipment wider than 8 feet 5 inches or taller than 14 feet 6 inches as an oversized load.

Weight is also a significant factor. Even if your machinery fits standard height and width guidelines, it might still qualify as oversized if it exceeds a gross vehicle weight of 80,000 pounds. These rules vary by region, so working with a shipping provider that understands state-specific heavy equipment transportation laws is essential.

If your equipment is designated as an oversized load, you’ll need permits for every state it travels through. You may also be required to use escort vehicles, pilot cars, and warning signs, lights, or banners to alert traffic. Reputable heavy equipment shippers will handle these logistics as part of the service.

In some cases, partially disassembling your equipment can help you avoid oversized load fees. This can help reduce both weight and dimensions. Talk to your shipping company and crew to decide if this route makes sense for your equipment transport.

How Will My Large Equipment Be Shipped?

Large equipment shipping typically involves using open-air flatbed trailers, like lowboys or step-decks. These trailer types are ideal because they lower the center of gravity and reduce overall height, which helps avoid oversized load status where possible.

Due to space limitations and added costs, enclosed transport is rarely used for large machinery. Smaller machines like compact tractors or skid steers might be eligible for enclosed shipping. Even then, open trailers are more economical and better suited for heavy machinery shipping, especially since most equipment is built to withstand the elements during everyday use.

Do I Need To Buy Insurance When Shipping Large Equipment?

Heavy equipment shipping companies must carry at least $100,000 in cargo insurance by law. However, some providers offer policies that go up to $1 million depending on the value of the machinery being hauled.

You should confirm insurance coverage with your carrier before transporting it. If your machine’s value exceeds their policy limit, they can usually help you secure additional coverage. Supplemental insurance often costs around $10 per $100,000 of added value, making it an affordable way to protect your investment.

Whether you're shipping heavy equipment overseas or across the country, having adequate insurance is essential to reduce risk during transit.

Can I Ship Broken-Down Or Inoperable Large Equipment?

Yes, you can ship inoperable or non-running equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, or tractors, but it comes with added costs. Specialized loading equipment is needed, and more time and labor may be required at both pickup and drop-off locations.

If your equipment only needs minor repairs, it may be more cost-effective to get it running before shipment. Restoring it to working conditions can significantly save machinery shipping fees and simplify the transport process.

Need Help Shipping Large Equipment? Got More Questions? Get In Touch With Us Now!

At A-1 Auto Transport, we’re the leading shipping broker for large equipment in the United States. We have an extensive network of skilled, qualified professionals who can help you move equipment and machinery of any size.

If you have questions or need a quote for moving your large equipment, don't wait. Contact A-1 Auto Transport online now, or call us at (888) 230-9116 to speak with an agent and get the help you need immediately.