Transporting a mini excavator from one job site to another sounds simple. However, it involves several steps that cannot be ignored, including choosing the right size trailer and properly loading and securing the excavator.
Choose the right transport trailer
It is very important to choose a trailer that matches your excavator.
Most mini excavators can be transported on a 10,000-pound trailer, while larger excavators may require a 20,000 to 30,000 pound trailer or larger. If you want to transport oversized excavators, you may need a lowbed truck trailer to transport them. If you’re not sure how much weight-rated trailer to use to transport your excavator, you can contact us and let us provide you with a free shipping solution.
Since all states and local municipalities have different regulations based on gross vehicle weight classes, you have to confirm federal, state, and local regulations regarding the weight, width, length, and height of your load before shipping your machine to make sure your shipment is compliant.
Load the excavator correctly
Once you’ve selected the right transport vehicle, it’s time to load your excavator. You should follow these operations:
- Check whether the trailer is parked on a firm and level ground.
- Fix the parking brake and block the wheels of the trailer.
- Accessories should be attached to your excavator before shipping.
- Choosea ramp of the correct length and width that can support the weight of the excavator.
- Use metal loading ramps with non-slip surfaces.
- When loading equipment onto a trailer, climb up the ramp with the heaviest end.
- Release the auto-idle function and move the two-speed travel to a low gear position.
Fix the excavator correctly
- Lower the bucket or attachment of the excavator to the floor of the trailer and stop the engine. All doors should be locked before transporting.
- Place pads, brackets, wedges or other blocks in front of and behind each track to prevent rolling or shifting during transportation. Then, install the tie downs in the front and rear tie down locations as instructed in the Operation and Maintenance Manual.
- Tie down at least four positions to prevent any movement. Some trailers have D-rings, chain grooves, or built-in belt rails that allow you to easily fix the excavator to the trailer. Always use recommended attachment points and fixtures to minimize damage.
- Check the tie-down points and tie-down equipment used to fix the excavator. All pins and connection points should be secure and the hooks should still work properly. If you see any cracks, stretches, or fatigued links, change them.