How Do I Transport Heavy Equipment After Purchase?
Everything You Need to Know to Move Your Machine Safely and Legally

You’ve sealed the deal—your excavator, dozer, or haul truck is officially yours. Now the big question: how do you move it?

Whether you bought it at auction, through a private sale, or online, transporting heavy equipment is no small task. It involves planning, permits, logistics, and choosing the right equipment and partners for the job. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

This guide breaks down the key steps to help you transport heavy machinery safely, efficiently, and without surprises—whether you're hauling across town or across borders.

Step 1: Know What You’re Moving

Before you even think about booking transport, gather key details about your machine:

• Make and model
• Weight
• Overall dimensions (length, width, height)
• Any attachments or accessories that might affect clearance or weight

This info determines the type of trailer needed, whether your load is considered oversized, and what kind of preparation is required.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Trailer

The trailer must match the size and weight of your machine. Common options include:

• Lowboy / Lowbed Trailers: Ideal for tall, heavy equipment like dozers and excavators
• Step Deck Trailers: Great for mid-size equipment with height restrictions
• RGNs (Removable Goosenecks): Useful when equipment can be driven directly onto the trailer
• Tilt Decks or Flatbeds: Best for compact machines like mini-excavators or skid steers

A professional hauler will usually assess your equipment and recommend the right trailer.

Step 3: Hire a Professional Heavy Equipment Hauler

Unless you have your own truck, trailer, insurance, and experience, leave it to the pros. A licensed heavy haul company will:

• Handle route planning and logistics
• Manage permitting and legal compliance
• Provide load insurance
• Take care of proper loading, securing, and unloading

Ask questions. Make sure they’ve transported similar machines before. The cheapest option isn’t always the best one—especially when you're moving iron that weighs 20+ tons.

Step 4: Get the Necessary Permits

Depending on your machine's size and weight, you may need permits to move it on public roads. These are typically required for:

• Oversized loads (exceeding standard height, width, or length)
• Overweight loads (beyond standard axle weight limits)

Permits may be required per trip, per region, or for each jurisdiction the load passes through. Most experienced haulers will handle this for you, but always confirm who’s responsible.

Step 5: Prepare Your Equipment for Transport

Getting your machine transport-ready is critical for safety and compliance. Here’s a quick checklist:

_____ Lower booms, blades, or arms

_____Secure or remove any attachments

_____Lock or tie down moving parts

_____Clean off excess mud or debris (important for cross-border transport)

_____Disconnect the battery if recommended

_____Document the condition of the equipment with photos

If your machine leaks fluids or has loose parts, fix it before loading.

Step 6: Secure the Load Correctly

Improper load securement can lead to serious accidents—and big fines. Your hauler should use heavy-duty chains or straps rated for the weight of your equipment, following official cargo securement standards.

In general:

• Large machines require four or more tie-downs, properly positioned
• Accessories or loose parts need to be separately secured
• Load distribution should be balanced to prevent shifting or tipping

A responsible hauler will follow these standards closely, but don’t be afraid to ask questions or request photos if you're not on-site.

Step 7: Be Ready at the Delivery Site

Make sure the drop-off location is safe and accessible:

• Is the ground firm and level enough for unloading?
• Are there low bridges, tight turns, or overhead wires?
• Will someone be there to receive the machine?
• Do you need additional equipment to unload (like ramps or another machine)?

Good communication with the hauler prevents delays and damage.

Bonus Tip: Buying or Selling Across the Border?

Cross-border moves (Canada ↔ USA) may require:

• A bill of sale and proof of ownership
• Customs clearance paperwork
• Emissions or inspection documentation
• A customs broker (especially for commercial transactions)

Talk to your hauler or a broker in advance to ensure all paperwork is in place. Don’t assume it’s just a “drive across” job—border delays can be costly.

Transporting heavy equipment is part of the ownership experience. It’s not as simple as “load and go”—but with the right prep and the right hauler, it doesn’t have to be complicated either.

Make sure you understand the specs of your machine, hire professionals you trust, and don’t cut corners on permitting or safety.

Buying or selling heavy equipment online? Many marketplaces (ours included!) offer connections to verified heavy haul companies ready to move your machine—locally or across borders.