Question 1

What trailer type does my farm equipment need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on height and weight. Compact and utility tractors often fit on a standard flatbed. Taller row-crop tractors and mid-size equipment usually ride on a step-deck for extra clearance. Combines, large 4WD tractors, and heavy implements typically need an RGN (removable gooseneck) lowboy so they can be driven or winched on at ground level. When you post your load, carriers recommend the right trailer in their bids.

Question 2

Do combines and wide equipment need oversize permits?

Accepted Answer

Almost always. Legal load width is generally 8.5 feet, and most combines, planters, and sprayers exceed that even after prep. Loads wider than that require state oversize/overwidth permits, and very wide or tall loads may need pilot (escort) vehicles. Experienced heavy-haul carriers handle permitting and routing as part of the job — factor it into the bids you compare.

Question 3

Should I remove the header, duals, or fold the equipment before pickup?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when possible. Removing a combine's header (and shipping it separately or on its own header trailer), pulling dual wheels, folding planter and sprayer wings, and lowering or removing exhaust stacks all reduce width and height. That can drop you into a lower permit class — or legal dimensions entirely — which lowers cost. Your carrier will tell you exactly what prep helps for your machine.

Question 4

How much does it cost to ship a tractor or combine?

Accepted Answer

It varies with size, width, distance, and season. Smaller tractors on a flatbed might run a few hundred to around $1,500. Large row-crop and 4WD tractors typically land in the low-to-mid four figures. Combines and heavy oversize loads with permits and escorts can run $3,000 - $5,000 or more on longer hauls. Because carriers bid competitively on the marketplace, you see real numbers for your exact load rather than a generic estimate.

Question 5

Can you pick up from a dealer or an auction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Carriers on the marketplace regularly handle dealer deliveries and auction pickups (including Ritchie Bros., Purple Wave, and local farm sales) as well as farm-to-farm moves. Just include the yard address, hours, and any lot or buyer number when you post so the carrier can coordinate release and loading.

Question 6

When is the best time to ship farm equipment?

Accepted Answer

Demand and pricing swing with the season. Spring planting and fall harvest are the busiest windows, when working equipment is in high demand and carriers are stretched — so booking early helps. Winter and mid-summer lulls often bring more available trucks and more competitive bids. If your timing is flexible, posting during a slower stretch can save money.

Question 7

Is my equipment covered during transport?

Accepted Answer

Carriers on the marketplace carry their own cargo and liability insurance, and you can review a carrier's coverage before booking. For high-value machines, confirm the cargo limit matches your equipment's value and ask about any deductible. Document the equipment's condition with photos at pickup and delivery so any claim is straightforward.

Verified carriers for agricultural machinery