How to Ship a Tractor: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selecting the proper transport method depends on the size, weight, and distance of your tractor shipment. The right type of trailer can affect both the efficiency and cost of transport.

Flatbed trailers are the most commonly used option for tractor shipping. They offer an open platform for easy loading and unloading and are widely available. While flatbeds are cost-effective, they do not provide any protection from weather or road debris. Step-deck trailers, also known as drop-deck trailers, are a good alternative for taller tractors. Their lowered deck helps prevent height clearance issues and makes loading easier. However, they are slightly more expensive than flatbed transport.

For oversized or extremely heavy tractors, lowboy trailers are the best option. These trailers sit close to the ground, allowing them to accommodate taller and heavier machinery. Though they are essential for large tractors, lowboy transport often requires additional permits and comes at a higher cost. Smaller tractors traveling shorter distances may benefit from hotshot trucking. This method uses medium-duty pickup trucks with gooseneck or tilt trailers, offering a quick and cost-effective solution for local transport. However, hotshot transport has weight limitations and is not ideal for long-distance shipments.

Key Transport Considerations:

• Flatbed Trailers: Best for standard tractors, affordable but exposed to weather.
• Step-Deck Trailers: Ideal for taller tractors, slightly higher cost.
• Lowboy Trailers: Necessary for oversized tractors, requires permits.
• Hotshot Trucking: Good for small tractors on short routes, limited weight capacity.

Choosing the right transport company is a critical step in ensuring a safe and hassle-free shipping experience. Not all carriers have experience hauling tractors, so it’s essential to research their qualifications. Start by checking whether the carrier is licensed and insured under the Department of Transportation (DOT). Working with a transporter who has experience in hauling tractors and other heavy machinery can help prevent issues during the shipping process.

A great way to compare carriers is through uShip, the premiere platform that connects customers with vetted transporters. Instead of reaching out to individual carriers, uShip allows you to compare multiple shipping quotes in one place, ensuring you receive competitive pricing and reliable service on a timeline that works for you. To assess carrier reliability and professionalism, check customer feedback and transport history. Before booking, review the contract carefully to confirm pricing, insurance coverage, estimated delivery time, and any cancellation policies. For more peace of mind, payments aren’t released to the carrier until delivery is confirmed when you use uShip.

If your tractor exceeds standard size limits, special permits may be required for transport. Tractors that are wider than 8.5 feet, taller than 13.5 feet, or weigh more than 80,000 lbs including the trailer are considered oversized and will require additional paperwork. Some states mandate escort vehicles for oversized shipments to ensure road safety.

Each state has different transport regulations, so checking requirements for the entire shipping route is crucial. While most professional transport companies handle the permit process on behalf of the customer, it’s important to confirm this service is included when booking transport. Failure to obtain the correct permits can result in fines, transport delays, or even impoundment of the equipment.

When you go with uShip, you don’t have to worry about any of this.