How to transport an excavator safely on a low-loader
Whether you're moving a 3-tonne mini-excavator to a new job site or shipping a 60-tonne Liebherr internationally, proper planning ensures safe, legal and cost-effective delivery. This guide covers everything from preparation to delivery.
Excavator classification for transport
| Class | Weight range | Examples | Transport type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini | 1–5 tonnes | CAT 301, Kubota KX057, Bobcat E50 | Standard low-loader (10t) |
| Midi | 5–10 tonnes | CAT 308, Volvo ECR88, Komatsu PC88 | Standard low-loader (20t) |
| Standard | 18–30 tonnes | CAT 320/330, Komatsu PC210/300, Volvo EC300 | Heavy low-loader (35t) |
| Heavy | 30–50 tonnes | CAT 336/349, Liebherr R946, Hitachi ZX490 | Multi-axle low-loader (50t+) |
| Ultra-heavy | 50–90+ tonnes | Liebherr R970/R976, CAT 390F | Modular transport + special permit |
Pre-transport preparation checklist
- Lower the boom and arm — rest the bucket flat on the deck, retract stick fully
- Rotate superstructure — align tracks with travel direction, lock slew ring
- Raise blade (if applicable) — clear of ramps during loading
- Retract stabilisers and lock in transport position
- Remove or fold attachments — hydraulic hammer, grapple, quick coupler extensions
- Disconnect battery for journeys over 24 hours
- Record weight and dimensions — essential for route planning and permits
Loading procedure
Standard loading on a hydraulic-ramp low-loader:
- Position platform on firm, level ground with ramps deployed
- Tracked excavators: drive up ramps in low-speed travel mode, tracks aligned with platform width
- Wheeled excavators: drive up under own power, chock wheels immediately
- Once positioned, lower boom onto deck for minimum centre of gravity
- Engage swing lock — critical for preventing rotation in transit
Securing to EN 12195 standards
European standard EN 12195-1:2010 mandates:
- Minimum 4 lashing points (2 front, 2 rear) at 30–60° angle
- Grade 10 chains for loads >20t (minimum LC 10,000 daN each)
- Anti-slip mats under tracks/tyres (increases friction coefficient μ from 0.3 to 0.6)
- Forward restraint must withstand 0.8× cargo weight
- Lateral restraint must withstand 0.5× cargo weight
Insurance and liability
Gonera Transport provides OCP insurance up to €500,000 per shipment, covering all risks during loading, transit and unloading. Every transport includes real-time GPS tracking and photographic documentation of securing.
Ship your excavator with Europe's trusted heavy transport partner: +48 534 531 513 (24/7).