Boom Lift Shipping
Smart Solutions for Transporting Boom Lifts
From construction to maintenance, FreightCenter has your back in getting your boom lift shipped safely, securely, and on time for your businesses needs.
Boom lifts are an integral part of many businesses. Whether it’s construction, maintenance, painting, or many other services, businesses use them every day to get their jobs done. That’s why it’s important not only to know where your boom lift shipping goes, but also how it needs to be shipped. Due to most boom lifts being large, regular truck delivery won’t be enough. That’s where we come in!
At FreightCenter, we are experts in knowing what shipping solutions you need. For over 25 years, we’ve helped thousands of our customers choose what services are best suited for the job. Whether it’s flatbed trailers or drop-deck trailers, we can help find the best solution to ensure that your shipment arrives safely and ready for business!
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
How FreightCenter Assists With Your Boom Lift Shipping
We make boom lift shipping easier by offering:
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Access to 50+ vetted flatbed, heavy haul, and hot shot carriers
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Real-time tracking and delivery notifications
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Instant quotes through our TMS platform, giving you lots of quick and easy options
Shipping Your Boom Lift
When shipping your equipment, it’s important to know what can be shipped and how to ship it. Most boom lifts can be shipped by freight utilizing full truckload services. Some examples of shippable boom lifts include:
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Telescopic boom lifts (straight boom lifts)
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Articulating boom lifts (knuckle booms)
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Towable boom lifts
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Trailer-mounted lifts
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Electric boom lifts for indoor or warehouse use
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Diesel-powered booms for outdoor sites
By using our freight services, we help you through the process of getting it done safely and in a timely manner. That way, we worry about the freight so you can focus on getting your business done right!
How to Prepare a Boom Lift for Shipping
Ensuring your boom lift shipping is protected is essential. Part of that includes the prep that you put into getting it shipped. Here are the steps needed to ensure your equipment arrives safely and intact:
1. Measure Accurately
Measure the length, width, and height of your boom lift. Be as exact as possible, especially with height, as it will determine whether you need a step deck or a removable gooseneck (RGN) for your shipment.
2. Inspect for Leaks or Loose Parts
Having spills or loose parts is certainly not ideal for transporting such large and heavy equipment. Check hydraulic lines, tires, control panels, and arms to ensure everything is in place and secure, thereby minimizing the risk of loss or damage.
3. Lower the Boom and Lock in Place
All moving parts should be secured to the boom lift. Boom arms should be fully retracted when securing them. If your lift has swing-out arms, then they may need to be detached or pinned.
4. Disconnect Batteries (if required)
For long-distance or international shipping, disconnecting power sources helps prevent electrical damage or discharge from occurring to your boom lift. Ensure that you correctly package the battery and protect any exposed terminals on the boom lift. Battery shipping can be tricky, so it’s important to know what regulations and classifications you need to know for shipping a battery, whether it’s special labeling and documentation or certification to transport hazardous materials.
5. Clean Equipment
Of course, no client wants their equipment to be messy. Cleaning the boom lift from site debris not only helps your clients but also makes inspections easier and avoids issues at weigh stations or ports, preventing any unnecessary delays.
Most boom lift shipping will require Full Truckload (FTL) services due to the size and weight of most boom lifts. That's why FreightCenter offers a wide array of options for you to choose! Our experts can guide you on what your boom lift needs for transportation. Whether it's flatbed shipping or drop deck trailer services, we help find the best solution for you.
Due to the size of most boom lifts, flatbed freight shipping will be the most common way to ship your equipment. Instead of going inside a freight container, the boom lift will be driven or winched onto a flatbed and secured using chains and straps. This is ideal for boom lifts under 8'6" wide and under 10' tall.
For boom lifts too tall for a flatbed, drop decks step in to help! Due to the lower deck height, it allows for taller equipment to be shipped within vertical height restrictions. It also has a lower center of gravity which improves stability and load security.
For oversized or extremely heavy boom lifts, Removable Gooseneck Trailers (RGN's) are the perfect solution! This allows for you to drive the boom lift directly onto the trailer from the ground, no crane needed.
Needing to urgently transport a smaller, lighter boom lift? No problem! At FreightCenter, we have hot shot trucking services available to get your equipment delivered fast and safely.
Estimated Boom Lift Shipping Costs
Several factors determine the cost of shipping your boom lift. Some of those variables include:
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Size and weight of the equipment
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Distance between origin and destination
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Type of trailer used (flatbed, step deck, RGN)
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Fuel costs, tolls, permits (if oversized)
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Loading and unloading equipment
Here’s a rough estimate based on recent shipments:
| Boom Lift Model | From → To | Trailer Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| JLG 400S (8,000 lbs) | Atlanta, GA → Tampa, FL | Flatbed | $650 – $850 |
| Genie S-85 (36,000 lbs) | Chicago, IL → Dallas, TX | Step Deck | $1,800 – $2,400 |
| Snorkel A38E (Indoor electric) | Los Angeles, CA → Phoenix, AZ | Hot Shot | $500 – $750 |
| JLG 1350SJP (60,000 lbs) | Houston, TX → Denver, CO | RGN | $3,000 – $4,000 |
Note: Prices vary based on fuel rates, carrier availability, and seasonal demand. FreightCenter is available to provide you with your precise quote.
Special Considerations for Boom Lift Shipping
When shipping your items, it’s essential to consider what may require special attention and how to handle your shipping properly. Here are some special considerations to think about when shipping your boom lift:
- Because boom lifts rely on hydraulic pressure systems to function, it is crucial to check and maintain them. It’s good to inspect for any leaks, cracked hoses, or loose fittings so that they can be remedied before shipment. It is also advisable to secure all fluid caps and label any areas that should not be directly lifted or chained. For longer travel distances, consider draining the fuel to minimize safety risk.
- Boom lifts need proper securing, and rope just won’t cut it. For wheeled equipment, utilizing heavy-duty chains and binders will help ensure safety. Tie-down points should be rated for load weight and located on structural areas. Tie-down points should not be placed on moving parts so that the equipment is protected.
- If your shipment is designated as being oversized or overweight, you will need state-specific oversize permits for your boom lift. Other items required will be route surveys to ensure your shipment avoids low bridges or weight-restricted roads and, for some states, escort vehicles for ultra-wide or ultra-long loads. FreightCenter can help coordinate these with you and your chosen carrier.
- Since not all sites are flat or accessible, it’s essential to ensure that your boom lift shipping arrives at your destination safely and easily. Make sure that your flatbed or drop deck has sufficient room to maneuver for delivery. If your boom lift doesn’t drive independently, ensure that there is loading equipment available to load and unload your equipment for departure and arrival.
- If you are renting a lift, you will be responsible for return shipping to the equipment yard. Plan ahead with FreightCenter by making a round-trip quote or scheduling a pickup window. Having your equipment cleaned and fueled up (if required) will be helpful for faster returns for your boom lift shipping.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Boom Lift Shipping is Easier with FreightCenter!
You have lots of jobs to accomplish and worry about. Getting your boom lift shipping done shouldn’t be one of them. That’s why we’re here to help! With over 25 years of experience, we work to get your equipment shipped safely, securely, and fast so that you can focus on what’s vital for your business. Whether you need Hot Shot services for small lifts all the way up to RGNs for heavy lifts, we’ve got you covered!
Let’s make sure your equipment gets the treatment it deserves. Get your boom lift shipping quote today or call us at (800) 716-7608.
FAQ: Boom Lift Shipping
Q. How wide can a boom lift be before it needs a permit?
Anything over 8’6″ wide, 13’6″ tall (on the trailer), or over legal axle weight limits requires an oversize load permit. FreightCenter can help secure those for you.
Q. How far in advance should I book boom lift shipping?
Ideally, you should give 1–3 business days’ notice before your desired pickup date. This gives us time to source the right trailer, confirm site conditions, and handle permits if needed. For oversize loads or long-distance hauls, extra lead time is advised—especially during peak construction season.
Q. Does a boom lift need to be palleted or crated?
No. These are typically open-air shipments, secured with chains or straps on flatbeds.
Q. Is insurance included?
Carriers provide very limited liability coverage. For full protection, we recommend adding cargo insurance to protect the full value of your boom lift shipping. FreightCenter offers 3rd party insurance that we can help with.
Q. Do I need to load the lift myself?
If the pickup site has a ramp or dock, or if the lift is self-propelled, you can load it. Otherwise, you will need to request loading assistance.
Q. Can I ship a non-working boom lift?
Yes. Non-operational boom lifts can still be shipped, but the carrier will need a way to load them. This usually involves a winch-equipped trailer, tilt-bed, or on-site equipment like a forklift or crane. Be sure to mention this when booking so the right trailer and tools are dispatched.
Q. What's the difference between step deck and flatbed?
Unlike flatbeds, which have one set height, step decks have a lower deck to carry taller items without needing oversize permits.
Q. Are there restrictions on shipping diesel-powered lifts?
Not within the U.S., however, international or air shipments may require additional documentation. FreightCenter can help you determine what is needed for your shipping.
Q. How soon can I schedule pickup?
Typically, pickup occurs within 24 to 48 hours of booking.
Q. Can I track my shipment?
Yes. Our TMS platform provides real-time tracking and delivery updates so that you know every step of your shipments’ journey.
Q. What accessorials might I need?
Common ones include liftgate service, tarps, permits, and escort vehicles (for wide loads).
Q. What info do I need to book?
You will need the make, model, dimensions, weight, pickup/delivery locations, and any special loading instructions for your boom lift shipping.
Q. Do I need a loading dock?
Typically no, most boom lifts are loaded directly onto the trailer using ramps, drive-on methods, or a crane.
Q. What’s the best time of year to ship?
Spring and summer tend to have higher demand and slightly higher rates. Thus, planning around those times can help make your shipments more economical.
Q. Can I get help choosing the right trailer?
Absolutely! Call us at (800) 716-7608 or use our quote tool—we’ll guide you through it every step of the way.
3 Tips For Better Boom Lift Shipping
Document Your Equipment’s Condition
Before pickup, take clear photos of the boom lift from all angles, especially around vulnerable areas like hydraulic lines, tires, and control panels. Note the serial number and any existing scratches, leaks, or damage. This creates a record in case you need to file a claim later.
Don’t Ship Without Insurance—Ever
Carriers typically cover only $0.10–$0.50 per pound. That won’t even come close to replacing your boom lift. With our 3rd-party insurance options, you'll get the full value of your cargo and ensure peace of mind for your shipment.
Plan for Permits and Route Restrictions
If your boom lift exceeds 8'6" wide, 13'6" tall (on trailer), or legal axle weight limits, you’ll need oversize load permits, and possibly escort vehicles. Some states also restrict when or where oversize loads can travel (e.g., no nights or weekends). Booking early gives us time to plan the best route.
