Dave C.
Courtney J.
Jeff D.
Maria L.
Heavy Equipment Transport
Published by Joe Webster.
A-1 Auto Transport is a trusted and experienced company specializing in shipping a wide range of heavy equipment across the United States. Our comprehensive heavy equipment transport services cover the transportation of heavy vehicles, industrial machinery, construction gear, military equipment, windmills, and even yachts. With a diverse fleet of carriers, including flatbeds and double-drop deck trailers, we are well-equipped to handle your unique shipping needs safely and efficiently.
As a leading heavy equipment shipping company, we understand that transporting oversized and heavy loads requires specialized knowledge, permits, and equipment for loading and unloading. These factors, along with timing, weather conditions, and distance, can contribute to higher shipping costs. However, at A-1 Auto Transport, we strive to provide cost-effective solutions for our clients. We offer competitive rates and ongoing deals available 24/7, allowing you to save significant money on your heavy equipment transport needs.
What is Heavy Equipment Transport?
Heavy equipment transport, also known as heavy equipment shipping, is a specialized hauling service that requires experienced transporters with expertise in heavy hauling. This service involves obtaining overload permits and utilizing special freight carriers like flatbeds, step decks, and double-drop deck trailers for transportation. Additionally, heavy equipment transport necessitates special handling of the equipment or goods being transported to ensure safe and secure delivery.
What Types of Heavy Equipment Transport Does A-1 Auto Transport Provide?
A-1 Auto Transport offers a comprehensive range of heavy equipment transport services to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Our experienced team is well-versed in handling various types of heavy haul, ensuring that your equipment is transported safely and efficiently. Here are the main types of heavy equipment transport services we provide:
- Flatbed Heavy Equipment Transport
- Oversized Heavy Load Transport
- Towing Heavy Loads
- Overseas Heavy Equipment Transport
Flatbed Heavy Equipment Transport
Flatbed carriers are popular for heavy equipment transport due to their versatility and open-deck design. These trailers are ideal for shipping heavy machinery, vehicles, and oversized loads that can be easily loaded and secured onto a flat surface. Flatbeds come in various sizes and weight capacities, allowing them to accommodate a wide range of equipment. Proper load securement using chains, straps, and tarps is crucial when using flatbed carriers for heavy equipment transport.
Oversized Heavy Load Transport
Specialized load transport carriers like step-deck trailers, double-drop deck trailers, lowboy trailers, and RGN trailers are necessary for oversized heavy equipment that exceeds legal dimensions. This involves careful route planning, obtaining permits, and utilizing multi-axle or modular trailers to accommodate excess weight and dimensions. Experienced drivers follow strict safety protocols and regulations for secure transport. Route surveys identify obstacles for strategic maneuvering. Permits ensure compliance with local restrictions on vehicle size, weight, and travel times. Trailers are configured based on equipment specifications for a stable, secure haul.
Towing Heavy Loads
In certain situations, towing heavy equipment using specialized tow trucks or tugs is the most practical solution, often for shorter distances or when trailer loading is unfeasible. Various towing techniques with strict safety protocols manage the complexities of moving heavy loads. Heavy-duty tow trucks with robust winch systems and additional axles handle larger equipment. Challenges include managing weight distribution, inclines/uneven terrain stability, and navigating tight spaces. Safety measures like specialized rigging, skilled operators, route planning, escort vehicles, warning signage, and communication systems ensure secure, regulated transport.
Overseas Heavy Equipment Transport
We offer reliable international shipping for heavy equipment, utilizing roll-on/roll-off ships and container shipping, including flat rack containers with a capacity of 88,000 pounds (39,916.129 kg) for non-movable equipment. The company ensures regulatory compliance, customs clearance, and seamless delivery through meticulous logistics planning, port handling, intermodal transport, and coordination with global partners.
What Types of Gear Do We Haul?
A-1 Auto Transport is a versatile heavy equipment shipping company specializing in heavy haul services for various industrial machinery. The company is well-equipped to handle the transportation of:
- Heavy Vehicles like Excavators, mining trucks, combine harvesters
- Industrial Equipment like Generators, compressors, turbines
- Construction Gears like Bulldozers, excavators, cranes, graders
- Military Equipment like Tanks, armored personnel carriers, artillery pieces
- Mining Equipment like Drills, loaders, haulers, continuous miners
- Oilfield Equipment like Rigs, mud pumps, pipe trucks, fracturing units
With experienced professionals, overload permits, and specific freight carriers, A-1 Auto Transport ensures safe and efficient transportation, providing special handling for each unique piece of machinery or goods being transported, regardless of size, weight, or complexity.
How Much Does Conveyance Cost?
Heavy hauling has no exact cost per mile as it depends on several factors other than distance. Here are a few average estimations of cost for heavy equipment transport based on distance:
| Shipping To/From | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waco to Elizabeth | $2859 | 1634 miles | 5 - 7 days |
| Kent to Miramar | $2366 | 1352 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Sterling Heights to Norman | $1859 | 1068 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Minneapolis to Allentown | $1990 | 1137 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Bridgeport to Ann Arbor | $994 | 568 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Fayetteville to Palm Bay | $1384 | 791 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Birmingham to Westminster | $455 | 260 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Overland Park to Gresham | $443 | 253 miles | 3 - 5 days |
Use our car shipping cost calculator to get the exact cost of your heavy equipment transport and request a free quote.
What Factors Affect The Cost of Moving?
- The cost of shipping heavy equipment depends on several key factors that need to be understood for accurate budgeting and planning:
- Size of the Shipment Larger and heavier shipments require specialized handling, vehicles, permits, and possibly dismantling and reassembly. This increases costs because it demands more resources to manage the transport.
- Transportation Method The type of transportation method can significantly impact the cost. Flatbed trailers are often the most cost-effective option for oversized or irregularly shaped loads. However, specialized equipment like multi-axle trailers or maritime shipping methods such as roll-on/roll-off or containers can lead to higher expenses.
- Timing Expedited shipping usually incurs additional costs, especially if the delivery needs to be made within a specific timeframe. Planning shipments well in advance allows for optimizing routes, resources, and schedules, helping avoid rush fees.
- Pickup and Delivery Location (Rural/urban) Shipping to remote areas often involves higher costs due to longer travel times, the need for specialized vehicles, and additional contingency plans. Urban areas present their own set of challenges, such as traffic, oversized load regulations, and higher operational costs.
- Season Harsh weather conditions often require specialized equipment and routes, adding to costs. Additionally, shipping during peak demand periods can raise rates due to resource competition. Shipping during off-peak seasons can help secure lower prices.
What is the Cheapest Way to Carry Large Gear?
Consolidated freight is the most cost-effective way to ship large equipment. Combining shipments from multiple customers into one load divides the cost, reducing overall expenses. A-1 Auto Transport further helps customers by comparing transport methods, utilizing off-peak seasons, and selecting cost-effective pickup and drop-off locations. These strategies help save money on heavy equipment transport while ensuring a safe and efficient service.
How To Prepare For Heavy Load Hauling?
Transporting heavy equipment requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and safe shipping process. Follow these steps to prepare effectively:
Documents
A1 Auto Transport works with FMCSA-licensed carriers to obtain all necessary oversized load permits and finalize routes well in advance. This avoids delays or issues with regular routes that cannot accommodate large equipment, ensuring a seamless and legally compliant process.
Cover Critical Parts
A1 Auto Transport’s partner carriers take special care to protect sensitive parts of your equipment. Using materials like padding, wraps, and custom covers, they shield hydraulic arms, electronic panels, and glass components from damage during transport. These protective measures ensure your equipment arrives intact and follows the manufacturer's guidelines.
Full Inspection
Before transport, A1 Auto Transport’s partners conduct a thorough inspection, checking the condition of the equipment, securing loose parts, and confirming operational status. High-quality, time-stamped photos are taken for documentation, which can be used to verify the equipment's condition upon delivery.
Preplan Pickup and Drop-off
A1 Auto Transport's carriers carefully plan pickup and drop-off locations, considering route accessibility, travel time, and local regulations. They ensure selected locations have adequate space and the required equipment, such as loading docks, ramps, or cranes, to ensure a smooth operation.
How To Choose The Best Dispatching Agency?
When selecting a company for heavy equipment transport, keep the following factors in mind:
Reputation and Capabilities
To evaluate customer satisfaction and reliability, check the company’s reputation by reading reviews on Trustpilot, BBB.org, and Google Business Profile.
Licensing and Certifications
Ensure that the company has the proper USDOT and MC numbers registered with the FMCSA, confirming compliance with regulations.
Fleet and Equipment Condition
Please inspect the condition of the company’s fleet to ensure it is properly maintained and capable of safely transporting heavy equipment.
Customer Service
Choose a company with responsive customer service that can effectively manage delays and answer any concerns you may have.
Geographical Coverage and Specializations
Consider the company’s range of services, especially if you need international shipping or specialized equipment transport.
Insurance Coverage
Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage to protect your equipment during transport. The company’s insurance policies should cover any potential damage during loading, transport, and unloading.
Before pickup, take time to inspect the equipment and document its condition with time-stamped photos to ensure you have a record for comparison at delivery.
Why Choose Us for Your Delivery Needs?
A-1 Auto Transport is your trusted partner in heavy equipment shipping, offering a range of services designed to meet your unique logistics needs:
Range of Carrier Options
We provide various carrier options, from flatbeds to specialized trailers, including double-drop deck carriers, tailored for different types of heavy equipment. This flexibility ensures the safe and secure transport of oversized and delicate machinery.
Federally Licensed
A-1 Auto Transport works only with licensed carriers registered with the US Department of Transportation and the Federal Maritime Commission, ensuring compliant and reliable service.
Fully Insured
Our partner carriers offer comprehensive insurance with liability coverage of up to $1 million for property damage and cargo insurance between $150,000 and $350,000 for any potential equipment damage during transport.
Trusted Since 1988
Since 1988, A-1 Auto Transport has built a solid reputation as a trusted provider of heavy equipment transport services, gaining decades of experience in handling complex logistics.
Damage-Free Guarantee
We offer a damage-free guarantee. If damage occurs and the carrier’s insurance claim is denied, we’ll help cover up to $500 of the deductible, providing you with peace of mind.
Full Inspection on Loading and Unloading
Our partners ensure comprehensive inspections before and after loading and unloading, helping to safeguard your equipment and verify its condition.
Binding Price Quote
A-1 Auto Transport offers binding price quotes, so there are no hidden fees or unexpected costs. This helps you budget for your heavy equipment transport with confidence.
No Deposit Required
We do not require any upfront deposits for heavy equipment shipping, allowing you to proceed with shipping without worrying about significant initial costs.
Multiple Discount Factors
We offer various shipping discounts, including bulk shipping discounts and repeat customer promotions, to ensure competitive rates for your heavy equipment transport needs.
Relevant Statistics About Us
- Heavy equipment shipping rates have decreased by 15% over the last year.
- Around 90% of heavy equipment shipments are transported using containerized shipping methods.
- The average cost to ship a 20-ton excavator is approximately $3,200.
- More than 75% of heavy equipment shipments require special permits and escort vehicles.
General Facts About Us
- Shipping rates are determined by various factors such as size, weight, distance, and any specialized services required.
- Rates may vary depending on the type of transportation method used.
- It's essential to compare quotes from different companies to ensure you're getting the best rate and service for your heavy equipment transport.
Contact Us
That’s where we step in
Here at A-1 Auto Transport, we believe in transparency and offering the best rates. The shipping industry is complex and competitive, and there is no need to pay more than you have to.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of shipping a piece of heavy equipment, contact us, and we will do our best to clarify the situation for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
As you research different equipment hauling services near you, it is important to look for companies that are fully licensed and insured. You also want to see that they have experience and positive reviews from previous clients.
At A1, we can help you ship and transport any type of equipment. It is common for us to help haul bulldozers, loaders, tractors, trucks, excavators, backhoes, forklifts, cranes, and other important equipment.
An equipment hauling company will first determine the size and weight of your equipment and where it is going to be shipped. They will also determine the price of your project after considering distance, gas prices, shipping method, access to major highways, the season, and whether any special hauling considerations need to be made. Keep in mind that it will also be more expensive to ship equipment overseas.
It can be tempting to always go with the lowest rate for equipment hauling, but that isn’t necessarily always the best idea. You need to consider exactly what you are getting for your money. Not all carriers will include the same services. In addition, not every company adheres to the same standards when it comes to customer service. Instead of thinking about the cost, try to think about the value you are getting for your money. Also, beware of any quotes that are significantly lower than competitors. As the saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Some common types of trailers include:
- Lowboys can drop down in height to allow for easy roll-on, roll-off loading and unloading.
- Flatbeds are a popular option for transporting equipment and materials. It is a basic trailer that is open on all sides.
- Step-deck trailers have a top and bottom level and come with ramps for easy loading.
- Removable gooseneck trailers are perfect for transporting taller equipment like cranes. The trailer is detachable and can be dropped down on one end to create a ramp.
- Dual-lane trailers are designed to haul the heaviest payloads that can’t be transported by traditional trailers.
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate the cost of your equipment hauling. As you review quotes from different companies, look and see if they all offer the same services. Make a list of the services that are most important to you and ask companies to include these as a part of their services.
When it comes to researching equipment hauling companies, the internet is a great resource. Even the quality of their website can speak to their overall professionalism. Also, take the time to read reviews from previous customers. They can provide you with valuable insights into their own experience and what you can expect from the company.
A reputable company will provide different communication tools. For the fastest response, call the company directly or take advantage of their instant messaging platform. You may also be able to fill out an online contact form or reach out to them over social media platforms.
The idea of hauling large and expensive equipment can seem overwhelming, but for an experienced company, it can be a lot easier than you think. The right company will have a proven strategy that they have successfully employed in the past. They will also be able to provide you with expert guidance when it comes to acquiring the right permits and completing necessary paperwork.
At A1, we have over 25 years of experience with equipment hauling.
The cost of your hauling project will depend on the size of your equipment, how far you will be transporting it, and whether it is a domestic or international shipping project. For a free, detailed quote, you can contact us directly.
Again, transportation times will depend on a variety of factors including, where you and shipping your equipment and whether there is easy access to major highways. The time of year and weather can also play a role. We can provide you with an estimate that will help you with the planning process.
An equipment hauling company will do their best to calculate shipping times. They will take into account how long a driver or transporter is allowed to work, the length of the trip, and speed limits or capabilities along the intended route. However, traffic congestion, construction, mechanical issues, weather conditions, and other factors can cause delays. While we can’t control every factor, we will do our best to deliver your shipment on time.
Yes, we offer international equipment hauling and shipping. Your equipment can be delivered to almost any location.
A1 prides itself on offering excellent customer service. If you are having any problems or have questions about your equipment hauling, you can contact our customer service experts.
We recommend that you clean the equipment, cover the stack to prevent debris from entering, disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining, secure the doors with a zip tie, and make a detailed list of any existing damage or scratches.
Overload refers to when the gross vehicle weight (GVW) exceeds the weight capacity of the trailer and hauling vehicle. Weigh stations are placed along highways to help prevent overload, which can cause damage to the hauler and the equipment.
Your hauling company should be covered by their own insurance that will extend to your equipment. However, it is always a good idea to contact your own insurance company and inquire about any extra coverage they may be able to offer.
There may be logistical issues that prevent us from dropping heavy equipment and other items directly to your door. Narrow roads and other obstacles can prohibit our trucks from entering. However, we will work with you to make arrangements so that you have a safe and convenient drop-off point.
Yes, we offer all-inclusive rates so that you can have an accurate idea of all the services you will receive during the course of your equipment hauling project.
Yes, we provide satellite tracking for all our customers so that you can easily track your shipment.
Yes, reputable equipment hauling companies will have extensive insurance to protect both you and themselves.
It is essential to accurately determine the weight of your equipment. The weight can determine the type of trailer and vehicle that is necessary to transport your equipment. Heavier equipment may also require special permits. If the right permits aren’t properly secured, there could be fines and other penalties involved.
Depending on the size of the equipment you need to haul and regulations in the states through which it will be transported, you may need special permits. You can learn more by contacting the DOT in relevant states. However, your equipment hauling company should be aware of any necessary permits and take the steps to secure them before transportation.
We can transport practically any type of equipment. Farm and construction equipment are common types of equipment, but we are capable of safely hauling all types of equipment to any destination.
The United States Department of Transportation works to help oversee and regulate equipment hauling. The Federal Motor Carrier Administration is a division of the federal DOT and works to set and enforce restrictions on the length, width, and weight of shipments that can be hauled on commercial highways.
If you are shipping heavy equipment, special permits may be required. Your equipment hauling company should be able to handle this aspect of the project so that both you and they can avoid extra fines and fees. Permit applications should be submitted as soon as possible since they can take a few weeks to process. You don’t want to have shipments delayed because of paperwork.
What factors typically influence heavy equipment transport quotes?
Heavy equipment transport quotes are influenced by a multitude of factors, each contributing to the overall cost and details of the service. Here's a breakdown of some primary factors that typically impact these quotes:
1. Type and Size of Equipment: Larger and heavier machinery generally costs more to transport due to the need for specialized equipment and possible route modifications.
2. Distance and Route: The longer the distance, the higher the cost. Additionally, routes with difficult terrain, tolls, or areas that require special permits may increase the quote.
3. Pick-up and Delivery Locations: Transporting to or from remote areas or places with restricted access can lead to higher costs. Urban areas with tight streets can also pose challenges.
4. Type of Transport Vehicle: Different types of trailers or trucks might be needed depending on the equipment, such as flatbeds, low-boys, or specialized oversized trailers.
5. Loading and Unloading: Whether you need the transport company to handle loading/unloading or if you will manage it can influence the price.
6. Permits and Regulatory Fees: Oversized or overweight shipments often require special permits. The cost of these permits, and the administrative work involved in obtaining them, can affect the quote.
7. Insurance: The level of insurance coverage you opt for will impact the quote. Higher levels of protection will cost more.
8. Timeframe: If you require expedited shipping or specific delivery dates, it might increase the cost.
9. Special Requirements: Needs like tarping, padding, climate control, or other specific handling can raise the price.
10. Seasonality: Some periods, especially harsh winter months or peak industry times, can see increased rates due to demand and transport challenges.
11. Fuel Prices: Fluctuating fuel costs can directly impact transportation quotes.
12. Company's Reputation and Service Level: Established and reputable companies might have higher rates but offer more reliability and comprehensive services.
13. Market Demand: Just like any industry, the supply and demand in the transport sector can influence prices. When demand is high and carriers are limited, prices can increase.
When seeking heavy equipment transport quotes, it's beneficial to provide as much detail as possible about your requirements. This ensures that you receive accurate and comprehensive quotes tailored to your specific needs.
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