Excavator Transport Brisbane: Costs, Permits and What to Expect

Excavators are one of the most commonly transported pieces of heavy machinery in Brisbane. Construction sites start and finish, machines move between projects, and dealers deliver new units to buyers. If you need an excavator moved, here is what to plan for.

Matching the Trailer to the Excavator

Small excavators under 5 tonnes can travel on a standard heavy tilt tray. Mid-range excavators from 5-25 tonnes typically go on a low loader. Large excavators above 25 tonnes need a heavy-rated low loader with sufficient axle capacity.

The excavator's transport dimensions matter as much as its weight. Measure the width with the bucket attached. Many 20-tonne class excavators are 2.6-2.8 metres wide with a standard bucket, which exceeds the 2.5-metre standard limit. Removing the bucket may bring the width within limits. If removal is not practical, an oversize permit is needed.

Transport height is the excavator height with the boom in its lowest travel position plus the trailer deck height. If this exceeds 4.3 metres, a height permit is required. Lowering the boom to rest on the machine body or on a support block reduces transport height.

Cost Factors

Excavator transport costs depend on machine weight, distance, and whether permits and escorts are needed.

A short-distance move within the Brisbane metro area for a standard excavator on a low loader is at the lower end of the cost range. A longer move to a regional site with an oversize permit and pilot vehicle costs considerably more because of the permit fee, escort operator cost, and additional travel time due to speed restrictions.

Same-day service costs more than scheduled moves because the transport company may need to rearrange their schedule to fit your job in.

What to Prepare Before the Transport Arrives

Have the excavator ready to load. Boom in travel position, bucket emptied, tracks clean of mud and debris. If the machine needs fuel, fill it before the transport arrives rather than expecting to refuel at the delivery site.

Clear the loading area. The low loader needs a straight, flat approach with enough room for the trailer length plus ramps. Remove any obstacles including vehicles, materials, and temporary fencing that might block access.

Have someone on site who can operate the machine for loading and unloading. The transport operator drives the truck, not the excavator.

For excavator transport in Brisbane, call Delta Heavy Towing on +61 455 996 600.