Forklift transportation services specialize in moving lift trucks from one location to another—whether for a new warehouse, repairs, job site delivery, or equipment sale. These services handle the unique challenges of forklift shipping: heavy weight, awkward dimensions, and specific loading and securing requirements.
Why You Need Professional Forklift Transport
The average forklift weighs between 9,000 and 12,000 pounds—roughly three times the weight of a standard pickup truck. Moving this much weight requires specialized trailers, proper load securing, and compliance with transportation regulations. Professional transport services handle:
Equipment preparation and inspection
Trailer selection based on forklift type and dimensions
Loading and unloading with proper ramps and techniques
Securing the forklift with rated chains and straps
Permit acquisition for oversized loads
Insurance coverage during transit
Common Trailers Used for Forklift Transport
Trailer Type Best For Deck Height Capacity Max Cargo Height
Flatbed Standard warehouse forklifts, loads under 48,000 lbs 48-60 inches 42,000-48,000 lbs ~8.5 ft above deck
Step-Deck Taller forklifts (8.5–10 ft), extended masts 18-24 inches lower than flatbed Similar to flatbed Up to ~10 ft
Lowboy Oversized forklifts over 10 ft tall, over 48,000 lbs Very low Varies Tallest equipment
Dry Van Protected transport, weather-sensitive equipment Standard Varies Limited by van height
Flatbeds are the fastest, most cost-effective option for standard forklifts. Step-deck trailers provide extra clearance for taller units. Lowboy trailers are the most specialized and highest-cost option for oversized or extremely heavy equipment.
Forklift Transport Cost Breakdown
Forklift transport costs vary based on distance, forklift size, and transport method.
Local Shipments (Under 150 miles)
Typical cost: $300 to $600 for a standard forklift
Local transport is generally cheaper due to shorter routes and common equipment needs
Long-Haul Shipments
Short trips (under 200 miles): $2.50–$4.00 per mile
Cross-country trips: $1.50–$2.50 per mile
Heavy Equipment Shipping Examples
Skid steer / forklift (flatbed, 500 miles): $1,250–$1,500
Excavator / backhoe (step deck, 500 miles): $1,400–$1,700
Key Cost Factors
Distance: Fuel accounts for over 50% of total operating costs for trucks
Forklift size and weight: Larger, heavier forklifts require more powerful trucks and specialized equipment
Trailer type: Step-deck and lowboy trailers cost more than flatbeds
Insurance: Valuable or oversized forklifts may require additional coverage
Permits: Oversized or overweight loads require specialized permits
Forklift Types and Transport Considerations
Forklift Type Typical Weight Special Considerations
Electric forklifts 3,000–12,000 lbs Battery handling required, no fuel concerns
Propane forklifts 4,000–15,000 lbs Propane tank must be removed or secured
Diesel/Gas forklifts 5,000–20,000+ lbs Fuel supply should be reduced before transport
Rough terrain forklifts 6,000–30,000+ lbs Larger dimensions, heavier weight, specialized trailers
Preparing a Forklift for Transport
Before transport, the forklift must be properly prepared:
Clean the forklift and remove loose debris
Lower the forks to the ground and engage the parking brake
Secure or remove attachments
Turn off the engine and disconnect the battery or fuel source
Check tire pressure and fluid levels
Inspect for leaks or damage
Measure the forklift: height with mast lowered, width including counterweight, length from fork tips to rear, total weight including attachments
Critical: Pay special attention to clearance height. The combined height of the trailer and your forklift must stay under the standard highway vertical clearance of 13 feet 6 inches to 14 feet.
Load Securing Standards
Proper securing is essential for safe transport. Transport companies use:
Ratchet straps (DOT-approved) for adjustable tension
Grade 70 chains (high-strength steel) for heavy anchoring
Edge protectors to prevent strap fraying against sharp edges
Wheel chocks to block tires from rolling during transit
Never attach tie-downs to the mast, forks, or hydraulic components. Always use designated points on the frame, counterweight, or axles.
Major Forklift Transport Providers
Provider Service Area Capacity Specialization
Freedom Heavy Haul All 48 states Up to 48,000 lbs, 13.5 ft tall Flatbed transport, no complex rigging for standard loads
Ship A1 Auto Transport National Construction equipment Forklifts, excavators, bulldozers
United States of Freight National (FL-based) Heavy haul Forklift truck transport, construction equipment
J.A. Miara Transportation Northeast US Up to 160,000 lbs Rigging, trucking, forklift rental, storage
When to Use a Forklift Transport Service
Relocating to a new warehouse or facility
Sending a forklift out for major repairs
Delivering a forklift to a construction or job site
Buying or selling used forklifts across state lines
Plant relocations and machinery moving
The bottom line: Forklift transportation requires specialized trailers, proper load securing, and compliance with weight and height regulations. Local shipments cost $300–$600; long-haul shipments range from $1.50–$4.00 per mile. Always measure your forklift's dimensions and weight before requesting a quote, and choose a transport provider experienced with heavy equipment hauling.