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Backhoe Loader Transport

VeriTread Makes Backhoe Loader Shipping Simple & Easy
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Backhoe Loader Transport - The Ultimate Guide

Tips, Tricks, and Things You Should Know.
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Transporting a Backhoe is a complex task. Preparation, communication, compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, and strict safety procedures are musts for any machine going from Point A to Point B. Many individuals find that it is better to hire a professional to move their equipment. This is especially true when moving machines over long distances, tricky routes, and through populated areas. It can be difficult and time-consuming to find the right transport provider to handle your load. Luckily, VeriTread is here for you! Our service connects shippers with qualified transport companies around the country who have extensive experience in transporting heavy equipment along with other heavy machinery and oversize load. Still, it’s always best to know everything about the process, should any surprises arise. We have prepared a fundamental guide for shipping a Backhoe Loader. Let’s dive into what it takes to safely and legally transport backhoe loaders from one place to another.
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Preparing Your Backhoe Loader for Transport

driver checklist
Perform a Documented Risk Assessment
To ensure that you can handle the risk of a situation, it is important to conduct an assessment. You will document what steps are taken in response and how they could fail so things never get out of control or cause unnecessary harm.
Outfit Sites & People With PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
The safety of your crew is the backbone of transport. Without proper protection, they can be at risk not only while preparing for and completing tasks but also during transport if you're carrying heavy cargo. Focusing on PPE documentation will strengthen the overall assessment skill set because it highlights how we take care of ourselves when working with risky loads and situations.
Determine the Weight and Height of Your Backhoe Loader
Every load begins with knowing the dimensions and weight of your load. The height, width, length, and weight of your cargo are vital considerations when transporting it. The DOT regulations for transportation revolve around these factors. Verify them before you begin to avoid unnecessary fines, delays, or accidents.
Inspect Your Truck and Trailer
Make sure your truck has adequate power to tow the load and your trailer is rated to handle the cargo weight. Inspect your truck and trailer is in good working order, pay specific attention to the tires, lights, brakes, tie-down points, and hydraulic hoses.
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Loading & Securing Your Backhoe Loader Safely

backhoe landoll sliding trailer
Designate Duties
Make sure everyone involved in loading the backhoe loader has been trained properly. Not only do they need to know what they're doing, but also how their actions might cause damage or injury if carried out improperly!
Make sure the trailer you are loading onto is on flat, level ground
A tilted trailer can cause rollover problems that are easily avoidable.
Be aware of all obstacles in your area
Adjust your loading strategy to avoid hitting any nearby objects and move everything to a safe distance if possible.
Check that your truck can handle the load and is parked and secure
Use the parking breaks or wheel chocks if necessary to prevent unwanted movement.
Check your trailer deck
Make sure it is as clean as possible and ready to accept the load.
Line up and approach the trailer, straight on
Use a spotter if your view is obstructed. Slowly drive your machine onto the trailer. Make sure the machine gently lowers itself down on the trailer to avoid damaging the machine or trailer. Once you have climbed onto the trailer, ensure all buckets and attachments are tucked towards the floor of the trailer.
Secure Your Backhoe Loader for Transport

All equipment attachments, work tools, and other accessory equipment must be lowered and secured before transportation. Retract booms and buckets and secure them in place. Secure equipment components (lock all doors, covers, tailgates, and articulation points). Also, make sure the machine transmission is immobilized and brakes are locked. For additional protection to your equipment, you may choose to cover it with a tarp or wrap it with shrink wrap. This protects the equipment from dirt, debris, and moisture on the roadways. For equipment with a smokestack, be sure to cover it so debris cannot enter. Use ample & appropriate securing devices (chains, binders, straps, & anchors). Choose appropriate attachment points on the machine and trailer.

Once the load is secured, check everything a second time. It can be helpful to have a safety check system in place where multiple people check the load, instead of relying on a single person.

Verify Driver Visibility

To make sure the driver has a clear view of what’s going on around them. The placement of equipment should also allow free movement of the driver and should not obstruct them from exiting the vehicle or accessing any necessary vehicle components or accessories. This ensures the driver can safely transport the machinery and keeps your company compliant with DOT regulations.

Check out a good securement video from Dirt Perfect. It covers tips. tricks, do's & don'ts for equipment greater than 10,001 lbs.

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Transporting Your Backhoe Loader Safely

Delivering Your Machine Safe, Sound, & On Time
hot shot with backhoe
Planning the Best Route

Heavy loads can be very dangerous in rush hour traffic in big cities. Take time before your trip and map out a route (and time) that avoids areas of construction or heavy congestion on the roadways, you'll thank yourself later! Try to avoid toll roads, low-hanging bridges, or any other interruptions or delays that could slow transportation. The best routes have the least amount of bridges, turns, starts, stops, and difficult terrain.

You also need to be sure that the roads along your route can handle the weight, height, and width of the load. It is very dangerous to assume that all roads can handle the weight of a heavy load. If the area is unfamiliar, then we strongly suggest you drive the route in a smaller vehicle first to identify areas of concern.

Laws, Regulations, & Permits

Complying with all permits and regulations is especially important if your load qualifies as oversized or overwidth. Most larger heavy equipment fits this designation which can carry extra liability. Check the laws and regulations for every state where the load will be transported. These laws change as you cross state borders, so don’t assume that the regulations at your destination are the same as those at the departure point. Additionally, Federal regulations apply for interstate commercial loads that weigh more than 10,000 pounds. In some situations, it may make more financial sense to disassemble the machine into smaller sections so that it can travel on multiple trailers as a legal load to avoid oversize and overwidth requirements.

In some situations, it is necessary to acquire permits before oversized loads can travel on state roads or highways. Also, check to see if a pilot car is required for your load.

Equip Transport Vehicles With Signs, Flags, and Flashing Lights
Oversize loads are designated on the road with proper banners, flags, signs, and lights. In some cases or larger freight, you may be required to have escort vehicles — one guiding the transportation truck and the other following behind, alerting others on to the road to the technical operation. Proper communication between escort and transport vehicles should be conducted by CB radios rather than cell phones to comply with industry standards for safe communication.
Run Safety Inspections While En Route

Heavy load securement requires check-ins and inspections while on the road, especially when traveling long distances. Walk around the trailer every time you stop for gas, food or a rest break and look for any indicators that the load is shifting, restraints are being damaged, etc. Have extra restraints with you so you can replace or reinforce those you’re already using if necessary.Industry safety standards recommend the following as inspection benchmarks while heavy cargo is en route:

  • Once during the first 50 miles of transport.
  • Once every 150 miles or once every 3 hours — whichever comes first for long-distance hauls.
  • At every change of duty or change of driver station. Have the new driver run a full inspection, then document that inspection in a transport log.
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Delivering & Safely Unloading Your Backhoe Loader

Finish Strong & Safe
backhoe in the dirt
Prepare the Delivery Site

Before unloading, take the time to review and clear the designated unloading area in the receiving yard. Just as you pay attention to this during the loading phase, wet and muddy ramps, cluttered docks, and uneven unloading ground make this part of the operation much harder than necessary. Line the ramps up with the rear of the trailer bed as methodically as possible, taking time to match joints and eliminate any gaps between the trailer and the ramp or dock. Once the machinery begins backing up, there will be no time to reposition.

With everything in place, conduct a final condition survey. Look over the equipment’s tires and hitches to ensure their health. Review roles with personnel, appointing a spotter and an equipment operator just like during the loading process and before you begin breaking down the chain tie points. You’ll also want to do a brief survey on the condition of the tie-downs themselves before their release. It is highly unsafe to undo straps and chains if the load has shifted, even minutely. If this is the case after performing a walk-through, you and the operators will have to draw up a custom unloading plan.

Free the Load
Release the chains, binders, and straps one at a time, beginning with the rear corners. Unravel excess chain that may have been wrapped around the links, then start loosening tie-downs with their ratchet-style wrench boomers. Be very careful, as chains and binders have been wound and should still be tight and pressurized. You don’t want a metal chain unexpectedly snapping up because joints and tension weren’t adequately reduced with the ratchet boomer. This could result in serious injury or death.
Slowly Back the Heavy Equipment Down the Ramp
Maintain a safe distance between the piece of equipment and its spotter. The equipment operator’s visibility may become hindered, so position the spotter in a way where they’re accessible, but out of harm’s way. Keep all other personnel away from the unloading area while the heavy machinery is being unloaded from the trailer.
Finish It Up
Once on the ground, perform a final inspection. Go over all equipment, truck, trailer, anchor points, and tools before sending everyone on their way. Make proper documentation and load up all tools and supplies. Stay safe and legal and send everyone home healthy and in one piece.
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Let VeriTread Locate A Backhoe Loader Transport Company for You

We work with thousands of vetted and certified carriers that specialize in backhoe transport.

When shipping heavy equipment, it can be difficult and time-consuming to find the right transport provider to handle your load. Luckily, VeriTread is here for you! Our service connects shippers with qualified transport companies around the country who have extensive experience in transporting a backhoe loader along with other heavy machinery and oversize loads.

VeriTread is your total solution to have your backhoe loader delivered to any destination in North America. Our versatile platform gives you everything you need to quickly receive trusted quotes, manage your own shipment, or connect you with our full service brokerage team. We supply everything for a stress-free experience, including built-in equipment transport dimensions, expert advice, and cost-saving tips. We provide more detail in fewer steps, leading to better rates, less questions, and a more accountable transportation experience. It’s not just easier, it’s better and more complete.

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4.6
Based on 276 reviews
B F.
I am very happy I came across VeriTread LLC, Michelle is very honest and very helpful with working with me. We are very happy with her and her work. Looking forward to continuing and working together. Have a bless day.
salvador M.
great company, i work with Michele never had issue she always on it great communication. We will continue to work with her and the company
Mary H.
Hello,I don't normally give reviews, but am happy to provide one for Michele Kondrisack. She is a thoughtful, considerate and conscientious agent who is always a pleasure to work with.
Lopag T.
Spoke to Michele to book a load. She was very nice and helpful when explaining the requirements for the load. Great communication, replies to emails, fast. good rate per mile.
USPENN D.
Great experience with Michele, thank you so much. Will be glad to work you again.Best RegardsMax
Acrosstheglobeconsulting
I work with a lot of brokers and Michele was awesome and very professional. Great business to work with!!
Alvin S.
I ran serveral loads for Michele Kondrisack, she is great to work with!
Steve C.
Angela and her team were more than accommodating with my busy schedule. Communicative and efficient got me my truck.
Pat M.
Excellent insights, communication and recommendations from Matthew Hagelberger. Thanks guys I got my shipment in two days!!
Jorge Raúl Avilas H.
I work for Raftel Logistics LLC, a carrier specialized in open deck trailer transportation. A few days ago we booked a load with VeriTread LLC. I would like to highlight the role of Michelle who was always available throughout the entire process to make sure everything ran smoothly. Great experience.
Andrei I.
Best service, in special Michelle was really nice and professional
TORQ W.
great company to work with specially michele she was very professional and nice
Christopher P.
As a carrier, I interact with a lot of brokers on a consistent basis, with experiences ranging across the board.What I can say about VeriTread and the broker I worked with (Michele) while booking one of the loads they had posted is that I wish they were all as polite, and accommodating, but yet, still thorough and by the book as she, and VeriTread was. If we had more brokers, and brokerages like Michele and VeriTread, the transportation industry and the customers we serve would be much better off.Michele is a shining example of exactly what and how a broker should be conducting business and representing not only the company they work for, but their customers as well.VeriTread is fortunate to have such an amazing employee, and I was fortunate to work with her.
P&A Transport & Trucking L.
It was a pleasure working with Michele K. The rate per mile was good and all paper work was clear and in order. We had no issues with pick-up or delivery. If I had a question, I spoke directly to Michele. It would be a breeze if we could work with more brokers like her. She was very knowledgable. We would definitely work with her again!
Jatana A.
Michele was great to work with and was there if I needed anything for the load. Thank you very much.
Angel S
Great company. I worked with Michelle on one of their loads. She was very professional , replied to my emails right away, we had an amazing communication. We will be happy to work again with VeryTread.
John W
Great company to work with. Looking forward to do more business in the future .
Gary L.
Delivery was ahead of schedule, driver with 53ft step deck negotiated the driveway and access challenges with skill.
Andrei B.
Thank you Michele Kondrisack!!!!!!
Diane R.
Gabriel was great to work with. Very quick and efficient. The excavator was delivery earlier than expected in great shape. I would definitely use them again
Lillian C.
MICHELLE IS A GREAT BROKER , GOOD COMMUNICATION AND VERY RESPECTFULL BROKER TO WORK WITH
Archie P.
MICHELE THE BEST BROKER!!!!!!
sergio L.
I recently just got my mt45 ship. Angie made it super easy with the transaction and communication with me and the auction I bought it from.
Sam M.
Great service, called , verified time of delivery, delivered on time , Shana and the driver were very polite and professional. I would highly recommend them.
赵逸轩(Passion F.
Angela Senffner
kryspy C.
Awesome team, especially Michelle, very professional! Was a pleasure to work with them!
Josiah K.
Angie and Mike were very helpful
B H.
Great service! Angie did an awesome job with the logistics, and driver Lionel was great with communication. I highly recommend this company!!!
Jay M.
VeriTread LLC. I recently booked a shipment with Michele and encountered some difficulties in shipper. Despite the challenges, Michele responded fast and provided all the necessary information she had. Her assistance was greatly appreciated.
Tom T
Veritread has been my go to for getting things shipped cross country! Highly suggest Matthew Hagelberger to be your sales rep he’s made my life easy, his communication and customer service are second to none. Shipped everything from pallets to a truck across country, would recommend. Ask for Matthew he will get you set up right!
Derek R.
Angie did a wonderful job getting my pickup set up. Also, during delivery, there was some confusion and Angie was awesome helping me get it sorted.
Jose M.
Michelle the best !!! Thank you for your help!
Melissa K.
A wonderful company to work with. We will use again. Thank you!
TARANJEET S.
Booked a load with Michele ,really nice to deal with
Alexander H.
Great experience, will definitely work with VeriTread again!
Robert F.
Angela @ Veritread made the transport process seamless.Great job and look forward to the next one.Robert
B B.
Michele K. with Veritread makes forming a Broker/ Carrier relationship easy by providing all pertinent information upfront and providing carriers with fair rates to haul loads. We will gladly work with Michele/ Veritread anytime our trucks are in an area where they are moving freight.
Robert H.
Thanks, Angie for the seamless pick-up and delivery of my commercial truck. Angie set up the time and date with the pickup location and relayed everything to the driver. The only thing I had to do was accept my vehicle when it was delivered. Even, the driver was accommodating and friendly. Thanks again.
Rick Paley (Big Rig T.
VeriTread LLX were fabulous to work with, we very much appreciate their business and professionalism. We hope this is the start of a long working relationship with them too.
Pihu S.
Thank you Lee for your quick assistance. Your cooperation has been invaluable to us, and your prompt response has made a significant difference in our ability to address the situation effectively. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our partnership 🙂
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