How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Tractor? Everything You Should Know
If you need to ship a tractor from one farm to another, you may be wondering what your best option is. If you’re sending your farm vehivle more than a few miles, chances are that you’ll need to hire a heavy equipment shipping company to transport it on a tractor-trailer.
But how much does it charge to move a tractor? How will your tractor be shipped? How should you prepare your tractor for shipping on a truck? In this guide from A-1 Auto Transport, we’ll discuss everything that you need to know.
How Are Tractors Usually Shipped?
Professional drivers usually ship tractors on a flatbed trailer. This is the best way to ship a vehicle traveling domestically since it can often be driven on and off of a flatbed. Typically, tractors are shipped in one piece, though some larger may have to be disassembled or require the removal of some attachments before shipping.
It is possible, in some cases, to ship smaller tractors in enclosed trailers. However, this is more expensive and it’s usually not necessary – agricultural vehicles are not delicate and are meant to be exposed to the elements. It may make sense to ship a luxury car in a closed trailer, but this is not really necessary for heavy agricultural machinery.
How Much Will It Cost To Ship A Tractor?
It usually costs between $2 and $3 per mile to ship a farm-grade tractor, but this can vary widely. There is no set price for a tractor shipment, because there are so many factors that can affect the total price you’ll pay. Among others, this includes LTL (Less Than Truckload) vs FTL (Full Truckload) shipping, oversized load requirements, the distance your agricultural vehicle must be sent, the population density near the destination area, and more.
Let’s explore these factors in a bit more detail now.
- Weight and size of your tractor – The average farm equipment can weigh up to 20,000 pounds or more, and depending on the machine and its attachments, a farm vehicle can vary wildly in dimensions (length, width, and height)
As a rule, the larger the vehicle is, the more it will cost to ship per mile, especially if it qualifies as an oversized load. Oversized loads require additional permits and may require pilot cars, which adds to the cost of moving. - LTL vs. FTL shipping—Large farm tractors must be sent with FTL (Full Truckload) shipping, which means your agricultural vehicle will take up all of the available space on a truck flatbed, and you’ll pay for hauling accordingly.
In contrast, smaller tractors can be sent with LTL (Less Than Truckload) hauling. In LTL shipping, you can share a flatbed with another shipment going to a nearby destination – For example, if your agricultural vehicle is 12 feet long and the flatbed is 48 feet long, you’ll only take up about 25% of its capacity – and the truck can carry other shipments, too. This reduces shipping prices, though it does make the process a bit more lengthy and complex. - Distance of shipment – You’ll be charged per mile for shipping your tractor, so a longer trip – say between states, from Maryland to Colorado – will cost more than a local shipment that’s within your state.
However, the cost per mile actually tends to be lower if the distance traveled is higher. Though you’ll still pay more for a long-distance shipment – because it must travel many more miles – you’ll actually be paying less per mile that your agricultural vehicle is being shipped. - Population density near the destination—Tractors are often sent to rural areas far away from population centers. If this is the case, you may end up paying a bit more for your shipment.
This is because the driver will have to “deadhead” after dropping off the tractor. “Deadheading” is a term used to refer to driving without carrying cargo. If there are no customers near your location that need to ship cargo, the driver may have a long distance to pick up their next cargo shipment. If you live more than 200+ miles from a major population center, expect to pay a slightly higher rate because of this.
How Should I Prepare A Tractor For Shipping?
Before you freight ship your tractor, you should document its condition, remove loose items from the cabin (if applicable), drain away any excess fuel, remove attachments, and ensure you know how it will be loaded onto the truck when it’s time to ship your agricultural vehicle. Your shipping company will provide you with any additional instructions you may need.
- Document the condition of your tractor – Taking photos and video of your vehicle will ensure that you can look out for any potential damage that may be caused during the shipment process, and gives you peace of mind.
- Remove loose items – If you have any personal items in the cabin or any items that may move around, remove them. Loose, unsecured items could shift and cause damage during the shipment process. Any valuable electronics or personal items should also be removed to reduce the risk of theft during the shipping process.
- Drain excess fuel – Some fuel may be needed to drive the on and off the semi, but it’s a good idea to drain most of the fuel from your agricultural vehicle. This reduces its loading weight, and also helps improve safety.
- Remove attachments – In some cases, it may be wise to remove tractor attachments from and ship them separately.
This is particularly true of tractors that would otherwise count as an oversized load. In most cases, the cost of partially disassembling the farm equipment or removing attachments will be much lower than paying for the costs associated with oversized load designation. - Develop a loading and unloading strategy – You’ll need to work with your shipping company to determine the best way to load your agricultural vehicle. Most can be driven onto a flatbed using ramps. They are fastened in place securely using straps and chains. Some larger tractors with oversized wheels and tires may need to be lifted onto the truck using a crane. Note that this may require additional specialized equipment, and incur additional costs. Professionals know the rules of loading and transiting heavy farm machinery. Once you leave items in their care, they will handle it.
Relevant Statistics
- On average, it costs $950 to transport a tractor within a 500-mile radius.
- Approximately 82% of tractor transportation companies offer insurance coverage for any damages during transit.
- The cost of transporting a tractor internationally can range from $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the distance and additional services required.
- Around 95% of tractor shipments are transported using flatbed trailers for efficient and safe transportation.
- The fuel consumption for transporting a tractor over 1,000 miles is typically around 25 gallons, with diesel fuel being the preferred choice for its efficiency.
General Facts
- The cost of transporting an agricultural vehicle depends on various factors such as distance, weight, size, and the transportation method used.
- On average, the cost to transport a tractor locally can range from $100 to $500.
- For long-distance transportation, the cost can vary between $1 to $5 per mile.
- Additional expenses may include permits, fuel surcharges, tolls, and insurance.
- Hiring a professional tractor transportation service is recommended to ensure safe and efficient delivery while considering the specific requirements of your farm vehicle.
Need To Move A Tractor? Work With A-1 Auto Transport To Get The Help You Need
At A-1 Auto Transport, we know how important your farm equipment is for your livelihood, and we understand that shipping an agricultural tractor can be a complex process. So we’re here to help. As a leading shipper for heavy equipment transportation, we can provide a reliable, and reasonably-priced shipping to and from anywhere. We ship any make, model, or type of vehicle, including John Deere and New Holland. We can also ship tractors in whole or in parts and together with implements like plow. Whether you are carrying any type of vehicle within the United States or North America, we can help.
Ready to get started? Contact us online, use our heavy equipment shipping calculator, or give us a call at (888) 230-9116. to speak to one of our representatives right away, and get the tractor shipping services you need. No matter where you are in America, we’re here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it charge to haul a farm vehicle?
The cost to ship a tractor can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size and weight of the tractor, the distance it needs to be shipped, the type of shipping service you choose, and the current market conditions.
In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1.50 to $3.50 per mile to ship a tractor. For example, shipping a small tractor from California to Florida might cost around $2,000, while shipping a large tractor from Alaska to Hawaii could cost upwards of $10,000.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the cost of shipping a tractor:
- Size and weight of the tractor: Larger and heavier tractors will cost more to ship than smaller and lighter tractors.
- Distance: The longer the distance the tractor needs to be shipped, the more it will cost.
- Type of shipping service: There are two main shipping services for tractors: open-air and enclosed. Enclosed shipping is more expensive than open-air shipping, but it will protect the tractor from the elements.
- Current market conditions: The cost of shipping can also be affected by current market conditions, such as fuel prices and the availability of shipping companies.
If you are considering shipping a tractor, it is important to get quotes from multiple shipping companies to compare rates. You should also factor in the cost of insurance, which is typically required for all tractor shipments.
What should I look for in a tractor shipping company?
When searching for a farm implement shipping company, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key things to look for:
1. Experience and reputation: Choose a shipping company with a solid track record in transporting tractors. Look for customer reviews and ratings to gauge their reputation and reliability.
2. Specialization: Find a company that specializes in shipping heavy machinery or tractors specifically. They should have the necessary equipment, expertise, and knowledge to handle the unique requirements of tractor transportation.
3. Insurance coverage: Ensure the shipping company has proper insurance coverage to protect your farm equipment in case of any damages or accidents during transit. Ask for proof of insurance and verify the coverage details.
4. Licensing and certifications: Check if the shipping company holds the necessary licenses and certifications required for transporting tractors. This ensures that they comply with industry standards and regulations.
5. Delivery options: Consider the delivery options offered by the shipping company. Do they provide door-to-door service or terminal-to-terminal? Choose the option that suits your needs and location.
6. Tracking and communication: Look for a shipping company that tracks your tractor during transit. This allows you to stay informed about its location and estimated arrival time. Additionally, ensure that they have good communication channels to address any queries or concerns you may have.
7. Cost and quotes: Compare the pricing and quotes from different shipping companies. While cost is an important factor, don't solely base your decision on the cheapest option. Consider the overall value, including the company's reputation and quality of service.
8. Additional services: Check if the shipping company offers additional services such as loading and unloading assistance, customs clearance, or storage facilities. These services can be beneficial and save you time and effort.
9. Customer support: Evaluate the level of customer support provided by the shipping company. Are they responsive, helpful, and available to assist you throughout the shipping process? Good customer support can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
10. Recommendations and referrals: Seek recommendations from other farm equipment owners or industry professionals who have previously used farm equipment shipping services. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
By considering these factors, you can choose a reliable and reputable tractor shipping company that will ensure the safe and timely delivery of your valuable equipment.
How much does it cost to ship tires internationally?
The cost to ship tires internationally can vary depending on several factors, including the weight and dimensions, the shipping distance, the chosen courier service, and the delivery speed. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 or more to ship a single tire internationally.
Here are some examples of shipping costs for a single 50-pound tire from the United States to various international destinations:
- New York to London: $50 - $100
- New York to Tokyo: $100 - $150
- New York to Sydney: $150 - $200
If you are shipping multiple tires, the cost will be higher. For example, shipping four 50-pound tires from New York to London would cost approximately $200 - $400.
What permits are needed to transport a tractor interstate?
To transport a tractor interstate in the United States, you may need the following permits:
1. Commercial Driver's License (CDL): The driver transporting the farm equipment will need a valid CDL, depending on the weight and size of the tractor and trailer combination.
2. Oversize/Overweight Permit: If the tractor or trailer exceeds the maximum weight or size limits set by the state or federal regulations, you must obtain an oversized/overweight permit. This permit ensures that you are complying with the specific regulations for transporting oversized or overweight loads.
3. Trip Permit: If traveling across state lines, you may need a trip permit. This permit allows you to operate in another state temporarily and is usually required when your vehicle is not registered in that particular state.
4. Vehicle Registration: Ensure that the tractor and trailer have valid registration in the state where they are registered. Make sure the registration is up to date and includes any necessary permits specific to that state.
5. Insurance: It is essential to have proper insurance coverage for both the tractor and trailer. This includes liability insurance, cargo insurance, and any additional coverage required by the states you travel through.
6. Specialized Permits: Some states may require additional permits for specific types of tractors or trailers, such as agricultural permits for farm equipment or hauling hazardous materials. Check with the relevant state transportation departments for any specialized permits required.
It is important to note that permit requirements may vary from state to state, so it is crucial to research and comply with the regulations of each state you will be traveling through. Additionally, it is advisable to consult with a transportation specialist or the Department of Transportation (DOT) in each state to ensure you have all the necessary permits and documentation for a smooth interstate transport of a tractor.
How much does it cost to transport farm machinery interstate?
The cost of transporting farm machinery interstate can vary depending on several factors, including the size and weight of the equipment, the distance it needs to be transported, and the type of trailer used. However, you can expect to pay between $1.70 and $5 per mile.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the cost of transporting farm machinery interstate:
- Size and weight of the equipment: The larger and heavier the equipment, the more it will cost to transport. This is because larger and heavier equipment requires a more specialized trailer and may need to be transported under special permits.
- Distance: The distance the equipment needs to be transported will also affect the cost. This is because the longer the distance, the more fuel and time required to transport the equipment.
- Type of trailer: The trailer used will also affect the cost. Open-deck trailers are the most common type of trailers for transporting farm machinery, but they are only sometimes the most affordable. Enclosed trailers are more expensive, but they offer more protection for the equipment from the elements.
- Fuel prices: Fuel prices can fluctuate significantly, affecting the cost of transporting farm machinery. If fuel prices are high, you can expect to pay more to transport your equipment.
- Other factors: Other factors that can affect the cost of transporting farm machinery include the time of year, the availability of carriers, and the specific route that needs to be taken.
How many does it charge to move a tractor interstate?
The cost to transport a tractor interstate can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size and weight of the tractor, the distance it needs to be shipped, the company you choose to hire, and the current market conditions. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1.50 to $5.00 per mile for a standard-sized tractor.
How long does it take to transport a tractor interstate?
The amount of time it takes to transport a tractor interstate will depend on a few factors, including the distance of the move, the type of tractor being transported, and the weather conditions. In general, it will take between 2 and 7 days to transport an agricultural vehicle interstate.
Here is a breakdown of how long it might take to transport a farm equipment interstate based on the distance of the move:
- Short distance (less than 500 miles): 2-3 days
- Medium distance (500-1,000 miles): 3-5 days
- Long distance (over 1,000 miles): 5-7 days
The type of agricultural vehicle being transported can also affect the time it takes to move. For example, a small tractor can be loaded and unloaded onto a trailer more quickly than a large tractor. Additionally, if the tractor has any special attachments, such as a front-end loader, it may need to be disassembled for transport, which can add time to the move.
Finally, the weather conditions can also affect how long it takes to transport a tractor interstate. If there is bad weather, such as snow or ice, the truck driver may need to slow down or even stop driving altogether. This can add time to the move, especially if the tractor is transported in the winter.
If you plan to transport agricultural vehicle interstate, it is important to factor in all of these factors to get an accurate estimate of how long the move will take. You should also allow some extra time for unexpected delays.