Mercer Transportation

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Reliable Tractor Hauling Services for Farms and Agricultural Businesses

tractor shipping on flatbed trailer

When you work in agriculture, equipment is the foundation of your entire operation. Tractors, implements, and heavy farm machinery keep everything moving. But when it’s time to move that equipment, you need a tractor hauling partner that knows the ins and outs of the job. That means experience with heavy loads, specialized trailers, permits, and real-world conditions that farmers and agricultural businesses face every day.

What Is Tractor Hauling?

Tractor shipping is the process of transporting farm tractors or other agricultural machinery from one location to another using a truck and trailer. While it may sound simple, hauling tractors involves more than just loading up and hitting the road. The weight, shape, and attachments on agricultural machinery make it necessary to select the right type of trailer, secure permits, and follow state and federal guidelines, especially when hauling oversized or overweight loads.

Unlike regular freight, tractors and related machinery come in many shapes and sizes. A compact utility tractor used on a small farm might fit on a basic flatbed trailer, while a four-wheel drive row crop tractor with duals might require a step-deck or even an RGN (removable gooseneck) trailer due to its height and weight.

Common Reasons for Tractor Transport

Agricultural businesses move tractors and equipment for many different reasons, including:

  • Buying or selling a tractor at an auction house or dealership
  • Moving equipment between farm properties
  • Shipping tractors for off site maintenance or repair
  • Seasonal moves for planting or harvesting
  • Delivering new tractors to a buyer’s location
  • Emergency hauling after a breakdown or storm

Regardless of the reason, the goal is the same: get the equipment moved safely and on time.

tractor hauling process infographic

Types of Trailers Used for Tractor Hauling

Choosing the right trailer for a tractor load depends on size, weight, height, and how the equipment is configured. Here are the most common options:

Flatbed Trailers

Ideal for smaller tractors and standard-size farm equipment. Flatbeds are easy to load and unload but are limited by height restrictions, generally under 8 feet, 6 inches.

Step-Deck Trailers (Drop Decks)

These trailers offer a lower deck height, making them better suited for taller equipment. They help keep the load under legal height limits without needing special permits.

Extended RGN (Removable Gooseneck Trailers)

Best for heavy hauling, RGNs can carry high, long, or heavy agricultural machines. They allow the front of the trailer to detach so equipment can be driven on without ramps. Many RGN setups support oversized or overweight loads, making them ideal for large four-wheel drive tractors or machinery with attachments.

Drop Deck Trailers

Drop deck trailers have a step-down deck that sits closer to the ground. They’re great for mid-height equipment that might otherwise exceed height limits on a flatbed.

Ready to Ship Your Tractor?

At Mercer Transportation, we have the trailers, drivers, and experience to move your equipment safely and efficiently. With access to flatbeds, step decks, RGNs, and more, our nationwide owner-operator network is ready when you are.

Get a Free Tractor Hauling Quote

What Affects Your Tractor Shipping Needs?

Several factors will determine how your tractor or agricultural machinery should be transported:

Weight and Dimensions

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), height, and length will determine what kind of trailer is needed and whether permits are required.

Attachments and Implements

Buckets, sprayers, blades, or seeders can affect overall dimensions. In many cases, they need to be removed or secured separately.

Route and Distance

Hauling on public roads, highways, or across state lines brings regulatory challenges. Some routes may have bridge weight limits or restricted travel hours for oversized loads.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Remote rural farms, muddy fields, or limited access areas may require special coordination or equipment.

These variables make experience critical. With thousands of loads hauled every year, Mercer’s dispatchers and drivers know what it takes to plan and execute a successful tractor transport.

Legal Requirements for Hauling Agricultural Equipment

Transporting tractors is subject to both federal and state regulations, especially when the equipment exceeds normal weight or dimension limits.

Oversize and Overweight Permits

Each state has its own requirements for oversize loads, but freight over 8’6” wide or 13’6” tall typically need oversize permits. RGNs and step decks are often used to stay under height limits.

Escort Vehicles

Depending on the load and route, some states require escort vehicles for safety. Mercer can help coordinate these when needed.

Load Securement

Chains, straps, and wheel chocks must be used according to FMCSA guidelines. Loose attachments or cargo can lead to fines or safety risks.

Mercer’s drivers are trained and experienced in meeting all legal requirements for agricultural and heavy equipment hauling.

Preparing Your Tractor for Shipping

To make sure your equipment is ready for pickup, follow these preparation tips:

  • Clean the Equipment: Remove dirt, grease, and debris to make inspection and securement easier.
  • Secure Attachments: Remove anything loose, or strap down fixed components.
  • Inspect Tires and Fluids: Check tire pressure and look for leaks.
  • Document Condition: Take photos and notes to confirm the condition before transit.
  • Clear the Area: Make sure the pickup location is accessible by truck and trailer.

Good prep saves time and reduces the chance of damage or delays during transport.

What to Look for in a Tractor Hauling Company

If you’re searching for a shipping company to haul your farm tractor or agricultural equipment, here are a few things to consider:

  • Proven experience with farm equipment transport
  • Access to multiple trailer types, including RGNs and step decks
  • Licensed and insured for heavy hauling
  • Knowledge of state-by-state permit requirements
  • Reliable pickup and delivery scheduling
  • Real-time tracking capabilities
  • Transparent pricing and a clear quote process

At Mercer, our entire business is built around owner-operator trucking. That means when you work with us, you’re getting a team that’s experienced, motivated, and equipped with the right tools to handle your load properly.

Why Work With Mercer Transportation

With over 45 years in the transportation industry and more than 250,000 loads moved annually, Mercer is one of North America’s most trusted names in specialized freight. We offer:

  • A large network of qualified owner-operators
  • Access to flatbeds, step decks, RGNs, and specialized trailers
  • Competitive rates and simple quoting
  • MercerTrac for real-time tracking
  • Safe, legal, and reliable hauling of tractors and heavy machinery

Whether you’re hauling a single tractor or moving a full fleet of equipment, Mercer is ready to get it done.

Get a Free Quote for Tractor Hauling Services

Need to move a tractor, implement, or agricultural machine? Get a fast quote from Mercer Transportation. We work with both small family farms and large agricultural businesses. Submit a request through our quote form and we’ll help you choose the right trailer, plan your route, and get your load moving.

Ship Your Machinery Safely

Let’s move your machinery with confidence, backed by experience you can trust.

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Tractor Hauling FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a tractor?

It depends on the size, weight, distance, and trailer type. Mercer provides accurate, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.

What kind of trailer do I need?

That depends on your tractor’s height, weight, and attachments. Step decks and RGNs are common for tall or heavy equipment.

Can you haul more than one piece of equipment at a time?

Yes. We can haul multiple units as long as they fit within legal limits or permits are obtained.

Do I need to be there when the driver arrives?

It’s best to have someone on-site for pickup and delivery to help guide access and check load condition.

Do you haul equipment across state lines?

Yes. We operate throughout the United States and cross-border into Canada.

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