Transporting Construction Machinery: What You Need to Know Before You Ship

When it comes to building anything, from residential housing to commercial developments, your equipment is just as important as your crew. Over the years at Load Em’ Up, we’ve worked with countless construction companies, contractors, and site managers who need help transporting construction machinery safely and efficiently.

If you're planning a project and need to move heavy-duty gear, this blog will guide you through the essentials: what types of machines require special care, how to prepare them for shipment, and how we can help make the entire process stress-free.

Why Construction Equipment Transportation Is More Than Just a Haul

Moving a mini excavator from one site to another might sound simple at first. But add in factors like oversized loads, narrow city streets, height restrictions, legal permits, and sensitive hydraulics, and it becomes clear that transporting construction machinery is a specialized job.

Some companies try to cut corners, using the wrong trailers, skipping permits, or relying on inexperienced drivers, and end up damaging expensive machines or delaying critical projects. That’s where our expertise comes in.

At Load Em’ Up, we’ve helped clients move everything from skid steers and bulldozers to mobile cranes and drilling rigs. We know how to handle every load with care, compliance, and clear communication.

Common Construction Equipment We Ship

No matter what kind of work you do, whether it's roadwork, excavation, demolition, or site prep, we’ve likely shipped the machines you use daily.

Here are just some of the most common types of construction machinery we transport:

• Bulldozers
  
• Excavators (standard and mini)
  
• Skid steers
  
• Backhoes
  
• Wheel loaders
  
• Compactors and rollers
  
• Cranes
  
• Pavers
  
• Trenchers
  
• Dump trucks
  
• Concrete mixers
  
• Generators and compressors
  

Each piece of equipment has its own size, weight, and transport requirements. We match each one to the correct trailer type, handling method, and regulatory path to get it delivered safely.

Choosing the Right Trailer for Construction Equipment

Choosing the right trailer can mean the difference between a smooth trip and an expensive mistake. Here's how we break it down at Load Em’ Up:

1. Flatbed Trailers

Best for compact machinery that fits within legal height and width limits.

2. Step Deck Trailers

Ideal for medium-sized equipment that’s too tall for a flatbed but not quite oversized.

3. Lowboy Trailers

Essential for oversized and overweight loads like dozers, pavers, or large excavators. These sit low to the ground and help us stay within legal height limits.

4. Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers

Perfect for rolling equipment that can be driven directly onto the trailer—great for wheel loaders and backhoes.

We’ll assess the load dimensions, weight, and pickup/delivery access to decide the best option for your job.

Legal Requirements and Permits

If you’re not familiar with oversized load regulations, you're not alone. Most people are surprised to learn how strict the requirements are.

Typical Permit Requirements:

• Widths over 8'6"
  
• Heights over 13'6"
  
• Weights over 40,000 lbs. per axle
  
• Escorts for certain routes or urban travel
  
• Travel restrictions during holidays or rush hour
  

We handle all of this for you. From permit filing to pilot car coordination, Load Em’ Up manages the process so your team can stay focused on the worksite, not red tape.

Preparing Your Equipment for Transport

Before we show up with a trailer, there are a few things you can do to make the job faster, safer, and more cost-effective:

1. Clean Your Equipment

Remove mud, debris, and materials that could fall off in transit. This also helps us inspect for damage pre-loading.

2. Remove Loose or Extendable Parts

Take off buckets, arms, or counterweights that could increase the load size unnecessarily.

3. Secure Moving Parts

Lock arms, close doors, and tie down components that could move during shipment.

4. Drain Fluids if Needed

Some states require fluid levels to be reduced to prevent leaks or spills during long hauls.

5. Take Photos Before Pickup

Documenting your machine’s condition helps in case of damage claims or insurance needs.

How Long Does It Take to Ship Construction Equipment?

In most cases, we can complete shipments within two to five business days. However, several factors can affect delivery time:

• Distance
  
• Route and permit requirements
  
• Weather conditions
  
• Equipment availability and size
  
• Need for escort vehicles
  

For urgent jobs, we offer expedited shipping. Just let us know what you're working with, and we’ll build a schedule that meets your deadline.

Real-World Example: Urban Excavator Transport

One of our repeat clients, a construction contractor in Philadelphia, needed to move an excavator from one job site to another. The only catch? It had to pass through downtown traffic, cross a state line, and arrive before 7:00 AM the next morning.

We:

• Selected a step-deck trailer for height clearance
  
• Scheduled a night haul to avoid rush hour
  
• Obtained special access permits for narrow city streets
  
• Delivered on time before construction began
  

This kind of detailed coordination is what sets Load Em’ Up apart.

How Much Does It Cost?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but we can give you a ballpark. Pricing depends on:

• Equipment size and weight
  
• Trailer type required
  
• Distance of the haul
  
• Permit needs
  
• Loading or unloading equipment required
  
• Timeline or expedited delivery
  

We always offer free quotes with transparent pricing, so you can budget accurately without surprises.

Why Choose Load Em’ Up for Transporting Construction Machinery?

Here’s what makes us different from the average freight company:

• We specialize in transporting construction machinery, not general freight
  
• Our team understands your machines and the urgency of construction schedules
  
• We handle everything: loading, routing, permits, and drop-off coordination
  
• We offer real-time tracking and communication throughout the trip
  
• Our drivers are experienced with large equipment and jobsite delivery challenges
  

When you need it done right the first time, Load Em’ Up is the team to call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be present at pickup or drop-off?
It helps, but it is not required. As long as we have clear instructions and site access, we can complete the job efficiently.

Can you move multiple machines in one trip?
Yes, we often consolidate machines when size and weight allow. Let us know what you need moved, and we’ll build a transport plan accordingly.

Is insurance included?
Yes, all shipments include standard cargo insurance. Additional coverage is available upon request.

Do you offer nationwide service?
We ship throughout the contiguous United States. Whether you are in a city, rural area, or crossing state lines, we can make it happen.

How early should I book?
Ideally, give us 3 to 5 days’ notice. For time-sensitive shipments, we offer expedited services as needed.

At the end of the day, having the right equipment on the job site is half the battle. The other half is getting it there safely, on time, and without hassle. That is why our team at Load Em’ Up takes transporting construction machinery seriously. We understand what is at stake, and we are here to help your project stay on track.

If you are planning a move or just want to know your options, we are ready when you are.

Visit Load Em’ Up to request your free quote and let us help you move your machines with confidence.