Heavy Forklift Shipping Services

Professional Forklift Shipping, Nationwide Coverage, and Door-to-Door Delivery

“Today Transport” Forklift Shipping Services

When it comes to professional forklift transportation, Today Transport stands out as a premium shipping company offering nationwide coverage. Our services are affordable, fast, and reliable, ideal for shipping, moving, or towing forklifts of any size. With years of industry experience, we understand the urgency of getting heavy construction machines to job sites on time. That’s why we use a strategic and timely approach for every shipment. Whether it’s a large construction forklift or a light warehouse forklift, our logistics team ensures optimised route planning, timely pickup, and safe delivery right to your doorstep.

We are licensed, bonded, and insured with DOT-compliant services. Thousands of positive reviews from our valued customers attest to the quality of our door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal services. Your cushion tyre or pneumatic tyre forklift is safe because we have the appropriate shipping equipment. We are the ultimate company to transport your load. Call us today to book forklift transport anywhere across the U.S.

Comprehensive Forklift Shipping Services

Heavy haul of forklifts is a task for a professional shipping company, and we are the right choice when it comes to providing all-inclusive shipping services. With an advanced loading system and extremely careful securement techniques, we ensure the safe delivery of the load. We handle the licenses, permits, insurance, and any other regulatory requirements. GPS tracking and doorstep delivery are convenient features for our valued customers. We can also haul forklifts in bulk to any site. Our services are top-notch, with adaptability tailored to meet your specific needs.

Types of Forklifts We Transport

1. Electric Forklifts

2. Diesel Forklifts

3. Rough Terrain Forklifts

4. Telescopic Forlifts

Why Choose “Today Transport” Transport Services

Excellent Customer Support

With thousands of satisfied customers and a 4.9 rating on every platform, we are sure to provide the best customer-centred services. Our shipping experts are available around the clock, every day, to make your forklift shipping hassle-free.

Customised Logistics Solutions

Forklifts are versatile machines, as are their functions and the transport needs. Therefore, at our company, we have a specialised strategy to meet the logistics demands of our customers. A flexible schedule, suitable trailers, and escort vehicles, along with essential loading equipment, are all provided as needed.

Reliable & Registered Shipping Company

We are a fully licensed, insured, and bonded transport company, equipped with state-of-the-art transportation technology and a modern fleet of trailers. Our professional and experienced team is carefully vetted to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable delivery every time.

On Time Services

Punctuality is our priority. We understand the value of time and ensure that every shipment reaches its destination as scheduled. Whether it’s a planned pickup or a remote delivery, our team is committed to providing timely and dependable service every time.

Documentation and Permits

Heavy-load transport often requires licenses, permits, Bills of Lading (BOL), and other route-specific legal documents. Our team manages all the necessary paperwork on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience from start to finish.

Nationwide Coverage

At Today Transport, we proudly provide logistics services nationwide. From door-to-door to coast-to-coast transport, we cover local, regional, and nationwide routes, ensuring your shipments are delivered safely, efficiently, and on time, wherever they need to go.

Forklift Towing Services

Whether you’ve purchased a new forklift or your existing one is out of service due to mechanical issues, reliable towing is essential to move your equipment safely. That’s why our tow trucks and specialized trailers are available 24/7, ready to transport your forklift to a job site, warehouse, or maintenance facility whenever you need.

Exclusive Fleets of Trailers

We operate specialized carriers designed to accommodate loads of varying heights, widths, and weights. Our skilled and experienced staff ensures the safe loading and unloading of heavy machinery onto the appropriate trailers. Depending on the shipment requirements, we utilize Flatbed, Lowboy, RGN, and Stepdeck trailers, selecting the most suitable carrier for shipping your forklift type and route to ensure secure and efficient transport.

Legal Compliance

Regulatory standards for heavy-load transportation vary from state to state, with some allowing flexibility for oversized or overweight shipments. In contrast, others enforce strict penalties or even confiscation for non-compliance. To ensure your load travels safely and legally, we plan ahead and strictly adhere to DOT regulations. Our licenses, certifications, and permits are always up to date, and we secure all necessary authorizations for your forklift transport in accordance with specific state requirements.

Insurance Coverage

In the unlikely event of accidental damage caused by unforeseen weather or traffic conditions, our shipping insurance provides full coverage, ensuring your equipment and investment remain protected throughout the transportation process.

How to Ship A Forklift With Today Trasport

Get a Price Estimate

Visit our website and receive an instant, non-obligatory price estimate to ship your forklift. You can also contact our shipping expert at any time for a detailed cost structure, if you'd like. It is best to double-check the shipping information to avoid shipping delays and multiple quotations. Our prices are transparent and free from hidden taxes, providing you with complete peace of mind.

Set Pickup Time and Location

After confirming the booking with us, our team communicates with customers to schedule a pickup. We will do on-time pickup as per the date you mentioned.

You have to ensure that your forklift is ready for transportation.

Delivery at Your Doorstep

Our licensed drivers deliver to your forklift to your chosen drop-off point. Make sure your place is legally accessible for a heavy load.After unloading, we verify the machine’s condition, complete the paperwork, and obtain customer signatures on the receiving document. After the standard delivery procedure, our carrier hands over the forklift to the client.

Estimated Time to Ship a Forklift with Us

Transportation of forklifts from one location to another can vary based on the destination. Several additional factors also influence shipping durations, such as weather, restricted routes, or blockages.

Distance	Estimated Time
Local	1 to 3 days
Nationwide\Long distance	7 to 14 days or more

Cost to Ship a Forklift at Today Transport

Several factors influence the cost of forklift transport, including load dimensions, weight, and pickup and delivery locations. To receive an accurate quote, it’s essential to provide the correct shipment details in advance. This helps us provide a reliable price estimate and prevents unnecessary cost adjustments or multiple revisions later in the process.

Type & Dimensions

As you know, forklifts come in various types, sizes, and functions, each with different weight specifications. Larger and heavier forklifts require specialised trailers, additional equipment, and handling, which can increase transportation costs. In contrast, smaller or lighter forklifts are typically less expensive to ship due to simpler logistics and reduced load requirements.

Open Carrier vs Enclosed Container

The type of carrier plays a crucial role in determining the overall shipping cost. Flatbed trailers offer an affordable solution for most forklift types. However, specific models, such as electric forklifts, require enclosed transport to protect them from weather exposure and external elements. The cost of shipping varies depending on the carrier type, flatbeds, and RGN trailers. Our experts select the most suitable option based on your machine’s specifications and safety requirements.

Distance & Route Accessibility

Distance and route type are key factors affecting forklift shipping rates. For long-distance transport, the per-mile cost is generally lower; however, total fuel expenses, labor costs, permits, tolls, and taxes increase, which in turn increases the total cost of shipping. Conversely, short-distance hauls tend to have a higher per-mile rate but a lower overall shipping cost. Likewise, rugged or challenging routes often lead to higher charges due to the need for specialised handling, safety measures, and support equipment.

Expedited Delivery

During peak shipping seasons or when handling bulk orders, transportation costs may increase due to heightened demand and the need for expedited processing. Similarly, urgent or express deliveries often involve priority scheduling and additional resources, which can further increase overall shipping costs.

Terminal Vs Residential

The cost of shipping a forklift largely depends on the pickup and delivery points. Terminal-to-terminal transport is generally more affordable, as it involves easier access and fewer logistical challenges. However, residential or limited-access pickups and deliveries often require additional coordination and specialised equipment, resulting in higher overall costs.

Additional factors

Permits, licenses, and insurance documents also play a key role in determining the overall shipping cost. While bulk orders can help reduce expenses by combining multiple shipments, the need for individual load handling, securement, and documentation can increase certain costs. We carefully balance these factors to provide you with the most cost-effective shipping solution.

Forklift Shipping Cost Nationwide

When shipping a heavy and oversized forklift on a standard flatbed trailer, the average cost per mile may be around $2.62. Here's an overview of shipping charges, provided in the table below, for shipping forklifts from various areas of the country. The cost can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

Region	Average Shipping Cost
West	$2.26 per mile
Southwest	$2.48 per mile
Midwest	$2.68 per mile
Northeast	$2.46 per mile
Southeast	$2.61 per mile

Forklif Shipping - Popular Routes & Estimated Time and Cost

Pick Up	Destination	Distance (miles)	Time Estimate	Cost Estimate
Sprinfield	New Orleans	681	2 to 4 days	$580
New Orleans	Anapolis	992	2 to 4 days	$745
New Orleans	Denver	1080	3 to 5 days	$795
New Orleans	Connecticut	1243	3 to 5 days	$880
New Orleans	Hampshire	1370	3 to 5 days	$1005
Nevada	New Orleans	1614	4 to 6 days	$1098
New Orleans	Sacramento	1880	4 to 6 days	$1110
New Orleans	Salem	2065	6 to 8 days	$1210

Information We Collect Before Pick Up

At “Today Transport,” our logistics procedures are smooth. Before pickup and loading, our agents collect vital data from customers to ensure we have the required transportation gear for safe shipping.

Dimensions

Accurate weight, height & length of the forklift, and any oversized or tall attachments, which may require additional support while securing on the carrier.

Forklifts fall into four categories.

Light power forklift: 3000lbs. to 4999lbs.
Medium power forklift: 5,000lbs. to 9,999
Standard power forklift:10,000lbs to 19,999lbs.
High Power Forklift: 20,000lbs. to 85,000lbs.

Type of the forklift

Our agents carefully gather the information on the type of forklift and its handling technique. Such as a large construction forklift truck is secured differently from an electric forklift, which is more delicately manoeuvred for shipping due to its electric batteries.

Operational Status

Operable condition of the forklift determines whether the loading systems are required or if they can be self-propelled. At the time of booking your order, don't forget to specify whether your load is operable or non-operable.

Accessibility of pick-up and drop-off locations

The readiness and availability of initial and final locations are crucial in determining whether we will need additional equipment for the safe execution of loading, securement, and unloading.

Transport Carriers at “Today Transport” for Forklift Shipping

Forklifts come in various sizes and types; some are overheight or overweight, while others are compact and lightweight. Furthermore, federal and state regulations limit the loads of specific weight and height that can be carried on each trailer.

We have a range of carriers and loading gear readily available to move your machines using flatbeds, RGNs, lowboys, or Stepdecks. Call us for customised shipping solutions to ship your forklift.

Type of Trailer	Features	Max Deck Height	Max weight	Max Height	Max Width	Max length
Hot Shot	Used for light forklifts Fast & local delivery	3.5 feet	15000 Ibs	10 feet	8.5 feet	40 feet
Conestoga	Protects the load from weather and external elements Can be loaded from the side Withstand heavy loads efficiently	5 feet	48000 Ibs	8 to 9 feet	8.5 feet	48 to 53 feet
Flatbed	Loading can be done from any side of the trailer Ideal for a self-propelled forklift Commonly used when overheight is not a concern	5 feet	48000 Ibs	8 feet 6 inches	8.5 feet	48 to 53 feet
Lowboy	Suitable for overheight forklifts Low centre of gravity increases stability	29.6 inches	80000 Ibs	feet
Step deck\Drop Deck	Upper deck in front and lower deck at the end Suitable for overheight loads	The top deck is 5 feet, and the bottom deck is 3 to 3.5 feet	48000 Ibs	11 feet	8.5 feet	53 feet
Removable Gooseneck	Detachable front for easy loading Ground-level loading without the need for ramps Superior choice for loading and unloading oversized forklifts with safe transport	18 to 24 inches	150000+ Ibs	11 feet 6 inches	8.5 feet	29 feet
Ext Drop Deck	Similar to a standard drop deck but with an extended length to adjust irregularly long loads	The top deck is 5 feet, and the bottom deck is 3 to 3.5 feet	45000 Ibs	10 feet	8.5 feet	63 feet
Ext RGN	Similar to standard RGN, however, the length is longer to adjust the load with more length requirements	18 to 24 inches	150000+ Ibs	11 feet 6 inches	8.5 feet	65 feet

Do You Need a Customised Shipping Solution to Haul Your Forklift?

Every client has unique needs when transporting expensive loads from one location to another. A contractor who just purchased a new forklift and wishes to deliver it to the warehouse, but it is not yet operational. We have loading systems in such cases to shift it onto the trailer.

At “Today Transport,” flatbed, lowboy, stepdeck, and RGN trailers are commonly used for heavy haul. However, any trailer can be customised for specific purposes. If you require more than 4 or 6 tie-downs for securement or a specific axle configuration, we can accommodate your needs. We select the trailer based on load dimensions, but the RGN is a superior choice due to its ease of loading and stability control.

Moreover, we use pilot cars & flag vehicles while shipping oversize or superloads. It enhances shipping safety.

Reach out to us for customised forklift shipping services.

Regulatory Compliance for Forklift Shipping at “Today Transport”

Our logistics team ensures full compliance with Today Transport and federal regulations, guaranteeing the safe and lawful transportation of your equipment throughout nationwide shipping operations

DOT Regulations

We strictly comply with the regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to ensure the safe transportation of our shipments. All legal documents, including the Bill of Lading (BOL), are carried by our drivers during transit. We also verify that each driver’s license and cargo align with the shipment type, helping to prevent any delays, fines, or compliance issues along the route.

Compliance with State-to-State Regulations

Regulatory requirements for heavy-load transportation vary from state to state. Some states enforce strict limits on trailer weight and height, where exceeding these limits can lead to fines, shipment delays, or even vehicle confiscation. Others offer more flexibility, allowing time to arrange proper documentation before legal action is taken. In Florida, carriers can self-issue permits online for loads weighing up to 200,000 pounds, measuring 18 feet in height and 16 feet in width, a benefit that simplifies compliance and speeds up the shipping process.

Permits Arrangements

As per state and federal laws, we arrange for the necessary permits based on the dimensions of the forklift and verify everything at pickup before the journey begins.

Pilot Cars

We offer escort cars in accordance with standard requirements and customer requests. Generally, with a wider load (more than 12 feet), an escort vehicle or flag car becomes a legal requirement. Similarly, for a load more than 13.5, an escort vehicle with a high pole is compulsory to detect obstacles before the trailer reaches them.

Dimensions of the Forklift

We ensure that our carriers are sized according to the forklift's dimensions and have an even distribution of load. Therefore, we consider the specifications of the load and the choice of trailer to be crucial from the beginning of the shipping process.

Common Industries with Forklift Shipping Needs

Warehouses

Light forklifts are typically used in distribution centres or warehouses. They usually require them for the inside logistics of materials. Electric forklifts are most commonly transported to such sites. We offer careful shipping solutions for relocating such delicate loads due to their battery-powered nature.

Construction Industry

This sector utilises the heaviest-duty forklift trucks, which are designed to haul heavy loads and materials at construction sites. Telehandlers and rough terrain forklifts are commonly seen at construction sites. We offer a range of trailers for transporting oversize and overweight loads.

Logistics Businesses

Forklifts are required at manufacturing companies and logistics businesses for production and inventory management. We offer special shipping services to fulfil their needs.

Storage Facilities

Material handling industries at ports or terminals frequently use forklifts. We offer expedited shipping solutions for such companies that rely on forklift operations daily.

Construction & Warehouse Forklifts Models Shipping at “Today Transport”

Construction	Warehouse
Bobcat	Clark
Case	Caterpillar
Caterpillar	Crown
Gradall	Doosan
Hyster	Fiat
Ingersoll Rand	Ford
JCB	Hyster
John Deere	JLG
Komatsu	Mitsubishi
New Holland	Nissan
Terex	Toyota
Yale	Yale

We Ship All Types of Forklifts Nationwide

Electric Forklift

Propane Forklift

Diesel Forklift

Cushion Tire Forklift

Rough Terrain Forklift

Pallet Jack Towing

Narrow-Aisle Forklift

Pneumatic Tire Forklift

Sideloader Forklift

Standup Forklift

Cherry Picker Forklift

Walkie Stacker Forklift

Versa Forklift

Trilifter Forklift

Truck-Mounted Forklift

How to Prepare the Forklift for Shipping?

It is crucial in the shipping procedure to ensure equipment safety. Our agents provide preparation instructions after obtaining details on the forklift to confirm seamless transportation.

Thoroughly Clean Forklift

The first step in preparation is proper assessment & cleaning. Remove dirt, debris, or any elements that can contaminate the machine during transport. Inspect the dimensions and any damage to the machine. If there are any damages or loose parts, keep a list of them with you. It helps you verify the same condition of the forklift after delivery as it was at pickup.

Pack additional Items Properly

You may need to send some items, loose components, or detached parts along with the machine. Therefore, we recommend that you carefully pack them with a description and handling instructions.

Lower the Forks

Move the forks as low as possible to avoid exceeding the height restrictions. It also saves from excessive movement during transport on rough routes.

Unhook Battery

An operational forklift has working batteries. When travelling for long distances, we recommend detaching batteries to save them from battery drain.

Safe Loading of Forklift With Us

We are a professional shipping company with years of experience, which is why we ensure every step meets our standards.

Our staff specializes in careful handling and loading of forklifts. Each person has their own designated duties, ranging from the placement of ramps to serving as a spotter guide or arranging securement tools. Our team removes every obstacle in the area, and high-visibility vests, cones, or barricades are strategically placed to ensure safety.

Safe placement of the Ramp

Our staff ensures there are no excessive movements and the ramps are in place.

The ramps must be rated to withstand the load.
In the case of RGN carriers, the forklift can be moved to the trailer on ground level through a removable gooseneck.

Trailer Parking

First, our staff cross-checks that the carrier is suitable for the load type. The deck is inspected to confirm that no equipment is loaded that is not documented for shipping.

Align Forklift for Transfer

Safely drive the operational forklift in the direction of the trailer. Our staff ensures that visibility is appropriate. Slowly move the machine up the trailer.

Non-Operational Forklifts

In case of a newly bought or damaged forklift truck, our logistics team brings cranes or a loading system. Careful handling is key to safe loading of non-operational forklifts.

How to Secure a Forklift After Loading?

Securing forklifts is crucial for safe transport. Our team ensures there are no excessive forward, backward, or lateral movements of the load after securement.

Block the wheel with wheel chocks.

Use heavy-duty chains and booms.

Generally, it is recommended to ensure that there are four or more tie-downs on the trailer.

Stabilising jacks & grade 70 transport chains prevent the equipment from slipping or excessive movements

We strictly follow DOT regulations. Our drivers are instructed to check tie-downs after the first 50 miles, with additional inspections at 150-mile intervals.

Careful Unloading of Forklifts

Our shipping staff ensures the trailer is parked safely and positioned for unloading. The tie downs, chains & bars are slowly removed. And the forklift is carefully driven off with proper visibility & signals.

Ship Your Forklifts In Bulk With Today Transport

We offer bulk shipping services for forklifts across the country. Our team specializes in arranging specialty permits, planning suitable routes, and fulfilling all other necessary legal and logistical requirements.

Steps to Ship Bulk Forklifts

Forklift Listing & Grouping

Firstly, our agents gather details on the size and dimensions of all the forklifts that are going to be shipped at a time. They are grouped according to their specifications and labelled for loading in batches onto specific trailers.

Suitable Trailer Choice

Appropriate carriers are selected for each category of forklifts based on their dimensions, types, and handling requirements.

Loading & Securement

Bulk loading is executed with careful and secure attachment. Wheel locks, heavy-duty chains, and clamps are used in the process, along with multiple tie-downs.

GPS Tracking & Informed Delivery

Real-time tracking ensures our customers are aware of their live location. Timely delivery concludes our bulk forklift shipping task.

Forklift Towing Services at “Today Transport”

“Today Transport” provides towing services with specialized towing vehicles and expertly trained staff. Whether you need to tow your forklift from a garage to a warehouse or require assistance relocating it between job sites, we offer 24/7 expedited and urgent towing services.

We Ship Forklifts to all 50 States

Alabama	Hawaii	Massachusetts	New Mexico	South Dakota
Alaska	Idaho	Michigan	New York	Tennessee
Arizona	Illinois	Minnesota	North Carolina	Texas
Arkansas	Indiana	Mississippi	North Dakota	Utah
California	Iowa	Missouri	Ohio	Vermont
Colorado	Kansas	Montana	Oklahoma	Virginia
Connecticut	Kentucky	Nebraska	Oregon	Washington
Delaware	Louisiana	Nevada	Pennsylvania	West Virginia
Florida	Maine	New Hampshire	Rhode Island	Wisconsin
Georgia	Maryland	New Jersey	South Carolina	Wyoming