Drilling Machine Transport Services
A drilling machine (or drilling rig) is built for just one purpose - to plumb the earth's depths. Though it comes in different types, typical applications of this machinery include the creation of wells for water, drilling at oil rigs (oil and gas wells), or for scientific drilling purposes. More specialized drilling equipment can also be used for testing soil, substrata, or groundwater. They also lay cables or utilities under the ground (1).
We're Flexible
We can range in size and type from small units that can be moved manually by one operator or driver to towering rigs and heavy loads meant for deep drilling. The specific dimensions and weight will determine the sending method used when transporting your machine. Whether your drill rig was designed to break up into its component parts easily, will also dictate the carrying options and trailers available to you.
We're Highly Experienced
Experience, professional equipment, and specialized expertise are required when undertaking a move of this size. Whether it's a drilling machine that can be containerized or heavy load drills that are truck-mounted, We have the equipment - a variety of trucks and experienced drivers with a good reputation to deliver them safely. Our more than 20 years in the industry speak for itself. Trusted, reliable, and knowledgeable - our team of experts will advise you on the best course of action for your unique situation.
- Heavy drilling rigs average ~190,000 lbs, classifying as superloads and requiring multi-axle lowboy trailers with per-state DOT permits for road transport.
- Transit timelines depend on route complexity, pickup access, and destination terrain; remote oil and gas job sites can significantly extend standard delivery windows.
- Carriers moving drilling machine superloads must carry a minimum of $2 million in liability insurance; FMCSA licensing and escort vehicles are mandatory for oversized moves.
We're Fully Insured
Every one of our shipments is covered by our comprehensive insurance - meaning you're protected and free from any liability. We can also provide door-to-door delivery. This eliminates the need for you to arrange transport, both to and from a depot or warehouse that's quite far from your location. If you are moving your drills across state lines or international borders, we can help with the permits and paperwork to avoid disruptions on the road. Finally, your drilling rigs will arrive on time, so it's at the location where and when you need them. That's because we are committed to tracking the movement of your equipment from forwarding and dispatching to ocean freight dispatching, trucking, and every handling involved to get your item to arrive safely and on time.
We offer nationwide (U.S.) and international shipping, and we'll provide a custom rate based on your shipment details. Call us today using the phone number on this page to discover the unique options we offer in drilling machine hauling services, and to learn about our attractive and cost-effective carrying rates. Ask for your free shifting estimate today!
Relevant Statistics
- Over 95% of drilling equipment is shipped globally by sea.
- The average weight of a heavy machinery shipment is approximately 12 tons.
- Over 80% of drilling machine shipments are moved in standard 20-foot containers.
- The average moving time for this equipment from manufacturer to destination is around 30 days.
- Approximately 70% of these machines are shipped to oil-rich regions such as the Middle East and North America.
General Facts
- We are heavy-duty equipment used to create holes in various materials.
- When shipping a drilling machine, ensuring proper packaging and securing it to prevent damage during transit is crucial.
- Freight companies relocate heavy machinery like drilling machines and use specialized vehicles.
- International delivery may require additional documentation and compliance with customs regulations.
- Hauling costs can vary depending on factors such as distance, weight, and mode of conveyance.
SOURCES: Drilling Rig
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do drilling machine transport services cost?
As of August 14, 2026, many U.S. drilling machine transport services for one machine by road fall around $1,500-$15,000, with lowboy/RGN heavy-haul work commonly near $4-$8 per mile. Distance, loaded dimensions and weight, trailer or axle configuration, and permit or escort needs account for most quote differences. Complete oilfield rig relocations that require many separate loads are larger projects and can sit well above this single-machine band. For a shipment-specific estimate, use A1's heavy equipment shipping calculator.
What trailer is best for transporting a drilling machine?
A lowboy or removable-gooseneck (RGN) trailer is often the first choice for tall, heavy drilling machines because its lower deck reduces loaded height. An RGN also allows self-propelled equipment to load from ground level after the front section is detached. Smaller drills may fit a step deck or flatbed, while heavier units can require multi-axle configurations to distribute weight. The final setup depends on transport dimensions, operating weight, center of gravity, and loading method; A1's heavy-haul service covers specialized open-deck moves.
How long does drilling machine transport usually take?
Loaded drilling machine transit generally runs 1-4 days under 500 miles, 3-7 days for 500-1,500 miles, and 6-10 days beyond 1,500 miles on U.S. road moves. These are transit windows after pickup; carrier scheduling and permit approval happen before the load starts moving. Oversize travel restrictions, escort coordination, weather, and difficult job-site access can extend the trip. Very large rig relocations moved in multiple loads follow a project schedule rather than a single-truck transit window.
How should I prepare a drilling machine for transport?
Prepare a drilling machine by placing it in its transport configuration and giving the carrier exact dimensions and operating weight before pickup. Lower or retract the mast, boom, and hydraulic attachments; secure or remove loose tooling; address active leaks; and confirm whether the machine can start, steer, and brake for loading. Photograph all sides and record existing damage before handoff. A1's heavy equipment preparation guide covers the general pickup checklist, and remote sites should have firm access with enough room for the assigned trailer.
Do drilling machines need oversize or overweight permits?
Drilling machines need oversize or overweight permits when the loaded truck-and-trailer combination exceeds the limits that apply on the states and roads in its route. On the National Network, the federal width standard is 102 inches (8 feet 6 inches); on Interstates, the federal gross-vehicle-weight standard is 80,000 pounds. There is no federal vehicle-height limit, so state standards and permit conditions control height. Axle weights and bridge-formula limits also matter, which is why multi-state loads are reviewed and permitted route by route.
How is a drilling machine secured during transport?
A drilling machine weighing 10,000 pounds or more and operating on wheels or tracks falls under 49 CFR 393.130's heavy-equipment securement rules. Hydraulic and other accessory equipment must be completely lowered and secured, and tracked or wheeled machines in this class need at least four tiedowns. Those tiedowns must restrain lateral, forward, rearward, and vertical movement and attach near the front and rear or at purpose-designed mounting points. Articulated machines also must be restrained against articulation, and OSHA recommends load inspections before and during transport.
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