Heavy equipment will probably require special shipping considerations because of its size and weight. Shipping bulldozers, cranes, tractors, or other heavy industrial or farm equipment may require a specialized hauler. The first step in shipping heavy equipment is to have accurate dimensions and weight for the transporter. These can help the transporter determine the type of trailer needed, and if any special considerations need to be made.
Below are a few types of common equipment for hauling heavy equipment:
Flatbeds
Flatbed hauling is the most common method of shipping heavy equipment and will be more likely available with most carriers. For the bulk of heavy equipment shipping needs, a simple flatbed should be sufficient. Flatbeds are available in a variety of sizes and capacities, they allow for easy loading and unloading and can carry up to 48,000 pounds. When choosing a flatbed hauler, confirm that that the truck will be able to handle the weight of your equipment.
Step Deck
Step Deck, or Single Drop Deck, is a type of trailer that is similar to flatbed, but with two deck levels: upper deck and lower deck that drop down after clearing the tractor unit. Generally, step deck trailers can haul taller loads than Flatbed trailers and often have ramps for unloading. They also tend to be safer for forklift pickup, due to the fact that they are closer to the ground. Most importantly these trailers allow for taller freight.
Double Drop Deck
Double Drop Deck trailers also known as 'Low Boys" are used for oversized freight that is taller than 10 feet. It has a longer piece of trailer, called a “well”, in the middle that dips below trailer axles. The well ranges from 25 to 29 feet, making it ideal for taller, shorter freight. Double Drop Deck trailers usually have 2 or more axles, and a “Flip axle”, which can flip up and lay on the deck or flip down and create extra axle for balancing weight.
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