Why is it Necessary to Carefully Consider Which Shipping Company I Hire?

Apart from apparent tips like scams, you must pay attention to reviews on third-party sites to check if the company is legitimate. Unfortunately , it's easy to fake a website these days. You should also check that the company has the necessary equipment to transport your load safely. Finally, check their customer service to ensure you feel comfortable with their representatives, and you can ask them questions whenever an issue arises.

What Sort of Trailer Will Be Used to Transport My Mini Excavator?

A flatbed trailer is perfect for transporting the excavator because it's built to carry average weights and can easily accommodate different shapes. In addition, an excavator has a simple, square shape that's easy for loaders to handle. Since a flatbed trailer also has a simple shape , loading most equipment onto it is easy. The company can load it onto the flatbed with a ramp, and since it's not too wide, personnel don't need to pay special attention to balance. The main chassis is then secured using chains, and the number they use depends on the size. They'll utilize at least six of them if it's longer.

What Does the Preparation Process Entail for a Mini Excavator?

Professionals use a mini excavator in places where it gathers a lot of dirt and grime, so the preparation stage is crucial. You'll need to hire a professional cleaning team to clean the excavator inside, ensuring no marks are left on it. This step is crucial if you're transporting your excavator overseas because of the sensitive environments some countries, like New Zealand, maintain. If Customs finds anything on the excavator during the inspection, they'll send it to a cleaning facility, and you'll have to pay extra charges. You must also empty the excavator's fuel tank until it's at least 1/4 th capacity and unplug any wires or batteries it might have so it doesn't turn on during the journey.

Is it Easy to Ship a Mini Excavator Across Multiple States?

Usually, yes, because it doesn't go over any regulations set by states in the USA. Most states have different numbers, but the minimum limits are usually 8.5 feet for width, 48 to 53 feet for length, and 13.5 feet for height. So, anything over 46000 pounds is an oversized load. However, a mini excavator, similar to a compact excavator (often the same thing), only weighs an average of 13000 pounds. And since it's a maximum of 6 feet wide, it isn't considered a wide load. These dimensions simplify transporting a mini excavator since no permits are involved. If you select a suitable company, you'll only need to submit basic documents and relax.

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Shipping A Mini Excavator

Published by Joe Webster.

What's in this article?

Mini Excavator Transport Services

The cost of shipping a Mini Excavator depends on various factors such as size and dimension, total distance, weight, shipping deadline, and transportation method.

At A-1 Auto Transport, we're the best choice if you're looking for mini excavator shippers near me. We've been in business for decades and are experts at handling and shipping all heavy-duty machinery and equipment, including mini excavators.

Cost Shipping Factors for Mini Excavator

Since every mini excavator shipping and hauling operation is unique, we can only provide you with an exact quote once we know more about the size of the mini excavator being delivered, its destination, the shipment deadline, and other relevant information. However, a few factors typically have the most impact on the price of shipping your mini excavator.

Size (Dimension): The size of the heavy-duty mini excavator or compact excavator you are planning to transport to another location affects the shipping cost. Shipping large mini excavators costs more than when you are transporting a smaller one. For instance, the cost of shipping a heavy-duty mini excavator or hydraulic excavator will be a bit higher because it qualifies as an oversized load.
Weight: The cost of shipping mini excavators will also depend on the item's weight. Lightweight equipment is easier to secure, load, and transport than heavier equipment like mini excavators, which may need to be disassembled into smaller sections and may require many trucks to ship.
Distance: Since shipping costs are often calculated per mile traveled, transporting mini excavators over long distances will cost significantly more than transporting them over short distances. However, even though the cost would be far cheaper overall, you will pay more per mile for short distances than long ones.
Domestic or Overseas: Mini excavators must be transported on a cargo ship, and transporting them overseas is far more complex and challenging than shipping them domestically. As a result, the total process of shipping abroad is considerably more expensive.
Delivery Deadline: If you need expedited shipping for your mini excavator, the cost will be higher than it would be if there were no time constraints. Planning ahead can help you get the best price and give your equipment plenty of time to arrive.

What to Look for in a Heavy Equipment Shipping Company

Here are key factors to consider when choosing a heavy equipment shipping company that meets your needs.

1. Track Record of Success

A reliable heavy equipment shipping company should have a proven track record of success in the transportation sector. This indicates their capability to handle various types and sizes of equipment with care and professionalism. Research their history and read testimonials from previous clients to gauge their experience and reliability in shipping heavy machinery.

2. Skilled and Licensed Personnel

The company must employ skilled and licensed personnel familiar with the complexities of moving heavy equipment. Specialists who understand the nuances of different routes, state regulations, and the safest way to transport your equipment are invaluable. Their expertise ensures that your freight is moved efficiently and in compliance with all legal requirements.

3. Insurance Coverage

Insurance is a critical aspect of shipping heavy equipment. The company you choose should be covered by at least the bare minimum of insurance available, protecting your investment against damage or loss during transit. Verifying the extent of their insurance coverage gives you peace of mind and safeguards your financial interests.

4. BBB Approval and DOT Certification

Look for a shipping company that has earned approval from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and certification from the Department of Transportation (DOT). These endorsements signify that the company adheres to high standards of service and safety, ensuring that it operates legally and ethically in the transportation industry.

5. Variety of Shipping Options and Features

The right shipping company should offer a range of shipping options and features to satisfy your expectations. Whether you need a specific type of truck, such as a flatbed or a lowboy trailer, for your moveable vehicle or are looking for specialized services like route planning and load tracking, the company should be able to accommodate your requirements. This flexibility allows you to customize the shipping process according to the size, weight, and nature of your equipment.

6. Competitive Quotes and Transparent Pricing

Obtaining competitive quotes from multiple companies is a wise step in finding the best service for your money. A trustworthy shipping company will provide transparent pricing without hidden fees, allowing you to make an informed decision based on the amount you are willing to spend. This transparency is particularly important when shipping valuable equipment like excavators, especially across extensive regions, like California to other states across North America.

Shipping mini excavator models and other construction equipment

Relevant Statistics

On average, it takes approximately 3-5 days to ship a mini excavator domestically.
Over 85% of mini excavators are transported via trucking companies for shipping.
The cost of shipping a mini excavator can range from $800 to $2000, depending on the distance and other factors.
Around 97% of mini excavators are shipped with specialized equipment and trailers to ensure safe transportation.
Mini excavators are typically shipped in containers or on flatbed trailers, with the latter being the most common method, accounting for 75% of shipments.

General Facts

Mini excavators are compact, versatile construction equipment used for digging and excavation tasks.
When shipping a mini excavator, proper packaging and securing is crucial to ensure safe transportation.
The weight and dimensions of the mini excavator determine the type of shipping container required.
Shipping a mini excavator typically involves using specialized heavy-haulage trailers or flatbed trucks.
It is important to consider any legal requirements, such as permits or escort vehicles, when transporting a mini excavator on public roads.

Preparing Your Mini Excavator for Shipping

Shipping a mini excavator requires meticulous preparation and attention to detail to ensure that the machine reaches its destination safely and without incurring any damage. Whether you are transporting the excavator in a lowboy trailer, flatbed trailer, or any specialized haulage company equipment such as an RGN (Removable Gooseneck Trailer), following these steps will facilitate a smooth shipping process. There are preparation criteria that must be met. Unfortunately, these requirements often stay the same for shipping all excavators.

Clean the Mini Excavator Thoroughly

Before delivering your mini excavator for shipping, it is crucial to clean it thoroughly. Cleaning not only helps to identify any existing damage but also prevents the transfer of debris and contaminants to the new location. Pay special attention to removing mud, dirt, and debris from all visible parts of the machine.

Remove Hazardous Materials

Ensure the safety of the driver and the shipping process by removing any hazardous materials from the mini excavator. This includes draining fuel and oil, which could pose a risk during transportation. Consult with your shipping agent or the haulage company about the required standards for hazardous material removal, as regulations may vary.

Document Pre-existing Damage

Make an exhaustive list of any damages your mini excavator has experienced prior to transport. Take detailed photographs of both the interior and exterior to document the machine's condition. This step is essential for insurance purposes and to protect your interests in case any dispute arises regarding the condition of the excavator upon arrival.

Verify Dimensions and Specs

Knowledge of your mini excavator's dimensions (height, length, width) and specs is crucial for selecting the appropriate trailer and preparing for transport. Accurate dimensions ensure that your machine complies with road safety regulations and help in determining if special permits are required for oversized loads. Share these details with your haulage company to aid in planning the logistics, including the selection between a lowboy trailer, which is ideal for heavy machinery due to its low ground clearance, and a flatbed trailer, which may be suitable for smaller models.

Secure the Excavator Properly

Once loaded onto the trailer, secure the mini excavator using straps and chains to prevent any movement during transport. Ensure that the machine is positioned correctly, with the weight evenly distributed on the trailer's platform. The use of a crane may be necessary for loading and unloading heavier models, so coordinate with your haulage company to ensure these services are available if needed.

Communicate with the Shipping and Haulage Company

Maintain open communication with your shipping agent and the driver. Provide them with a list of items to be aware of, including the mini excavator's model, dimensions, and any specific care instructions. Ensure that all paperwork is in order, including transport permits and the form detailing the condition of the excavator, before shipping.

Tips for Care and Unloading

Upon arrival, inspect the mini excavator for any signs of damage that might have occurred during transit. Comparing the machine's condition against the pre-loading photographs can help identify any discrepancies. Carefully oversee the unloading process to minimize the risk of damage.

Shipping A Midi Excavator

Let Us Handle Your Mini Excavator Shipping

With years of experience in shipping construction equipment, our team of professionals is the perfect solution for your needs. Our drivers and operators are highly skilled and equipped with a variety of trailers to ensure the safe transport of your mini excavators and hydraulic excavators. We offer shipping services across the country, including routes to Canada and Mexico. We have served thousands of customers and have access to the best routes and resources to give you peace of mind. If you have any questions about our services or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to contact us at (888) 230-9116.

Shipping A Mini Excavator

Mini Excavator Transport Services

Cost Shipping Factors for Mini Excavator