How much does it cost to transport an excavator?

Excavator transport costs $1,400–$8,000+ depending on size, weight, and distance. Mini excavators (under 6 tons) average $1,400–$3,500 for a 1,000-mile haul. Full-size excavators (30+ tons) average $3,500–$8,000+ due to RGN lowboy requirements and oversize permits.

Do I need oversize permits to transport an excavator?

Most full-size excavators (over 8.5 ft wide or 13.5 ft tall) require oversize permits in each state traversed. KeepShippin coordinates all permit applications, pilot car requirements, and route surveys at no additional charge.

How should I prepare my excavator for transport?

Lower the arm and bucket to minimum transport height. Retract all hydraulic cylinders. Drain excess hydraulic fluid to prevent pressure buildup. Remove any attachments that aren't being shipped. Ensure the machine is operable for self-loading if required.

Heavy Equipment

Excavator Transport

Excavator transport requires specialized flatbed, step-deck, or RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers depending on machine weight and height. Mini excavators (1–6 tons) load easily on standard flatbeds; full-size excavators (20–45 tons) typically require RGN lowboys with reduced deck height. Tracks must be blocked and machines secured with chains per DOT regulation. Arms and buckets must be lowered to minimum transport height.

$1,400 - $8,000Permits may be required FMCSA Licensed

Excavator Transport Quote

Typical Weight1,700–100,000+ lbs (varies by class)

Transport MethodFlatbed (mini), Step-deck (midi), RGN Lowboy (full-size)

Permits RequiredOften (handled for you)

Cost Range$1,400 - $8,000

Free • No commitment • 60 seconds

Cost Range

$1,400 - $8,000

Typical Weight

1,700–100,000+ lbs (varies by class)

Trailer Type

Flatbed (mini), Step-deck (midi), RGN Lowboy (full-size)

Transit Time

Excavator Transport — Complete Transport Guide (2026)

Quick Answer: Excavator Transport costs $1,400 - $8,000. Standard transit: . Oversize permits handled by our carrier team at no extra cost.

Transport method: Flatbed (mini), Step-deck (midi), RGN Lowboy (full-size) • Typical weight: 1,700–100,000+ lbs (varies by class). Most loads on this equipment class require oversize/overweight permits — our carrier team acquires them before dispatch.

All Equipment Types RV Shipping Rates

Excavator Transport Cost by Distance

Distance	Estimated Cost	Transit Time
Under 500 mi	$588 – $728	3–5 days
500–1,000 mi	$770 – $952	5–7 days
1,000–1,500 mi	$1,008 – $1,260	7–10 days
1,500–2,500 mi	$1,330 – $1,610	10–14 days
2,500+ mi	$1,750 – $2,170	14–18 days

Estimates for standard equipment on flatbed (mini), step-deck (midi), rgn lowboy (full-size). Escort vehicles, multi-axle fees, or fuel surcharges may apply. Get exact quote for your specific load.

Preparing Your Excavator for Transport

Retract boom, arm, and bucket to transport position

Lower blade, bucket, or attachment to ground level

Engage all safety locks and transport pins

Clean excess mud and debris from undercarriage

Check fluid levels — no overfills that could leak

Note and document any pre-existing damage with photos

Ensure battery is charged for remote/start during loading

Remove all loose accessories and attachments

Disable any auto-start or GPS tracking alerts

Note any height/width measurements for carrier reference

Excavator Transport FAQ

Other Equipment Types We Transport

Skid Steer Transport Bulldozer Transport Forklift Transport Tractor Transport Crane Transport

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