How Much Does It Cost to Transport Heavy Equipment

Shipping heavy equipment, whether it’s construction machinery, farm equipment, or industrial tools, is a serious task. The stakes are high, and so are the potential costs. If you’re budgeting for a move and wondering what the cost to transport heavy equipment really is, you’re in the right place.

At RoadLINX, we’ve handled countless heavy loads across Canada and the U.S. From excavators to generators, we know what goes into calculating transport rates and where you can save.

Here’s what you need to know.

Average Cost to Transport Heavy Equipment

Let’s start with a ballpark. The cost to transport heavy equipment typically ranges from $3 to $10 per mile, depending on several key factors.

Short hauls (under 200 miles): $4–$7 per mile
Mid-range hauls (200–500 miles): $3–$5 per mile
Long-distance (500+ miles): $3–$4 per mile
Cross-border or international hauls: May include flat fees or customs surcharges

A short local move might cost $500–$2,000, while a cross-country shipment could run $5,000–$15,000+, depending on the load and route.

Factors That Influence the Cost

Heavy equipment shipping isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s what affects the final quote:

Size and Weight

The larger and heavier the machine, the more expensive it is to move. Loads over certain limits require special permits, trailers, and sometimes escort vehicles.

Overweight = more fuel, more labour
Oversize = more planning, possibly restricted routes

Example: A small skid steer may cost $1,200 to ship 300 miles, while a full-sized excavator could cost over $4,000 for the same route.

Type of Trailer Required

Different machines need different equipment. Your load might require:

Flatbed trailers (standard for many large items)
Step-deck or double-drop trailers (for tall loads)
RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers (for drive-on machinery)
Lowboy trailers (for especially heavy or high-clearance equipment)

Specialty trailers cost more to operate, which affects your price.

Distance and Route

Longer hauls usually cost less per mile, but the total still adds up. Also, some routes cost more due to:

Remote delivery locations
Urban access restrictions
Road tolls or border crossings
Mountain or winter travel zones

A clear, accessible route lowers the overall cost to transport heavy equipment.

Permits and Regulations

Oversize or overweight loads can’t just be driven on public roads without clearance. They require special permits, which vary by province, state, and even municipality. These permits allow equipment that exceeds standard legal limits for height, width, weight, or length to be transported legally.

Depending on your route and load size, you may also need to factor in:

Escort vehicles (pilot cars): These vehicles drive ahead of or behind your load to warn traffic and help the driver navigate turns, bridges, or narrow lanes.
Time-of-day restrictions: Some regions prohibit oversize loads during rush hours or overnight. This can delay delivery and affect scheduling.
Special routing: Certain roads, overpasses, or bridges may be off-limits to heavy or tall loads. Your carrier must plan a compliant and safe route in advance.

Each of these requirements involves paperwork, coordination, and additional fees. A knowledgeable carrier like RoadLINX handles these logistics so you stay compliant without the stress.

Loading and Unloading

Heavy equipment isn’t always ready to roll onto a trailer. In many cases, loading and unloading is just as complicated as the transport itself. If your equipment doesn’t have wheels or is too tall or heavy for a standard lift, your shipping provider will need to bring in specialized tools.

This may include:

Cranes or boom trucks
Winches or rigging
Hydraulic lifts
Removable gooseneck (RGN) trailers for drive-on access

Each method has its own cost implications, especially if the job requires multiple handlers or safety personnel.

Tip: Let your carrier know in advance if your pickup or drop-off site has a loading dock, ramps, or other support equipment. If not, we’ll arrange for the right solution, but it may affect your quote and timeline.

Insurance Coverage

Moving heavy equipment comes with risk. From minor dings to major damage, things can go wrong during loading, transport, or unloading, especially with long distances, tight turns, or unpredictable weather.

Most shipping quotes include basic liability coverage, but this only covers a portion of your load’s value.

If your equipment is expensive, customized, or mission-critical, consider:

Full cargo insurance: This protects the total value of your machinery in case of damage, theft, or loss.
Special risk coverage: You can add protection for specific issues like natural disasters, vandalism, or loading errors.
High-value declarations: For equipment over a certain dollar amount, the carrier may require you to declare its value and purchase additional coverage.

Insurance can be billed as a flat rate or a percentage of the declared value, usually between 1% and 3%. It’s a small investment for major peace of mind.

Timing and Urgency

Need your load moved ASAP? Expedited or last-minute shipping always costs more.

Flexible dates = better rates
Peak season = higher demand and pricing

Additional Costs to Watch For

Some costs may not be part of the initial quote, but they can still impact your budget:

Detention time: If the driver waits too long at pickup or delivery
Storage fees: If the destination isn’t ready to receive
Route changes: If access is blocked or rerouting is needed
Cross-border customs processing: If not pre-arranged

Working with a provider like RoadLINX helps reduce or eliminate these surprises. We offer full logistics planning to keep your job moving smoothly and on budget.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

To get the best price and avoid hidden costs, be ready to share:

Equipment make and model
Exact dimensions (L x W x H)
Weight
Pickup and drop-off locations
Whether loading/unloading assistance is needed
Desired shipping time frame

The more accurate your details, the better your quote will reflect real costs.

At RoadLINX, we walk you through this process step by step to ensure you only pay for what you need—nothing more.

Can You Save on Heavy Equipment Transport?

Yes. Here are ways to reduce your total shipping cost:

Plan Ahead: Booking early gives you more flexibility and often better rates.
Be Flexible with Timing: Avoid peak days and tight deadlines when possible.
Consolidate Loads: If you’re moving multiple machines, shipping them together can reduce the per-unit rate.
Choose a Trusted Carrier: Working with a reliable company means fewer delays, clearer pricing, and lower risk of damage or rescheduling fees.

Why Work with RoadLINX?

When it comes to the cost to transport heavy equipment, price matters but so does experience. At RoadLINX, we offer:

Customized freight solutions for heavy loads
Permit handling and route planning
Flatbed, step-deck, removable gooseneck trailer (RGN), and intermodal shipping
Experienced drivers and logistics teams
Real-time tracking and support
Fully insured transportation options

Whether you’re shipping one machine or managing a full project, our team delivers reliable, cost-effective service across Canada and the U.S.

Price It Right, Move It Smart

Transporting heavy equipment isn’t just about horsepower, it’s about planning, safety, and smart logistics. Understanding what drives the cost to transport heavy equipment helps you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses.

At RoadLINX, we’re here to simplify the process. With clear quotes, expert service, and full support from pickup to drop-off, you can move your equipment with confidence, on time and on budget.

Need to move heavy equipment and want a clear, competitive quote? RoadLINX specializes in safe, reliable transport across North America. Contact us today to learn more about your options and get a customized estimate based on your exact shipping needs.

How Much Does It Cost to Transport Heavy Equipment

Average Cost to Transport Heavy Equipment