The American Trucking Associations (ATA) recommends using a flatbed trailer for lawn mower shipping services. This equipment will provide the cargo with a spacious and easy to access platform that makes loading and unloading more convenient. Riding lawn mowers are also easier to tie down when shipped on an open deck trailer.
Learn about how lawn mower shipping works and how much you can expect to spend on this crucial service.
Open deck trailers are the preferred method of transporting lawn mowers. That said, flatbeds can come in many variations.
The best ones to use include:
A standard flatbed is a great option because it provides plenty of space of for this equipment. This allows shippers to place numerous lawn mowers on the platform.
Step deck trailers are convenient because the main platform is lower to the ground. While shippers won’t be able to fit as many lawn mowers as a standard flatbed, it’ll be easier to load and unload equipment because of its accessibility.
There are a few aspects of lawn mower shipping besides transporting the cargo. Shippers and carriers also have to perform a few other tasks when moving this equipment.
Carefully loading and unloading cargo is an extremely important part of transporting riding lawn mowers. That’s why it’s essential for shippers to follow safety precautions during this process.
Good safety practices include:
Before loading, the shipper should assess the weight dimensions of the lawn mowers. This initial step helps determine the appropriate trailer and loading strategy based on the specific requirements of the equipment.
Lawn mowers can come in a variety of dimensions as well. You’ll find the greatest differences tend to be between weight and length. If shipping a batch of different models, these differences need to be kept in mind.
Weight and Dimensions | Measurements |
Weight | 400–900 Pounds |
Width | 42–54 Inches |
Length | 60–90 Inches |
Height | 42–52 Inches |
Provided by John Deere and Sawinery
Once shippers have determined the weight and dimensions, they can gather the equipment they’ll use to load their riding mower. Ramps are typically a popular option, but forklifts can be used to hoist mowers onto a trailer as well.
Providing the right amount of space for the cargo on the trailer is essential. If the equipment is too far apart, then room on the flatbed will go to waste. That said, enough space should be between the lawn mowers to make them easier to unload.
The weight of a lawn mower isn’t enough to keep it in place during transit. This equipment needs to be secured to the open deck trailer to ensure it doesn’t fall off.
Here are a few methods that shippers can use to keep their lawn mower in place:
Flatbed trailers have strategic tie-down points along the edges that will help keep a lawn mower in place. These points are placed in a way that accommodates various mower sizes and shapes, ensuring a snug fit during transportation.
A great tool to keep lawnmowers in place are tie-down straps. Chains are likely scratch the paint of the equipment, which will make them look unappealing to buyers. If delivering for a large hardware or big box store, such equipment may also be rejected outright. Each mower should be secured in place individually, instead of using one strap to hold down multiple.
After the lawn mowers are in place, shippers should inspect them before transport occurs. Drivers can take photos of the loaded equipment before and after arrival as proof of the condition upon delivery.
A lawn mower shipping company will charge flatbed transportation rates between $2.19 and $2.75 to move this equipment.
While these are our best estimates based on current rates, keep in mind that overall demand for shipping services and a carrier’s freight capacity can make these rates go up or down.
Many carriers use these trailers to move this kind of cargo and other types of freight like farm equipment. This is why shippers will have to pay a rate somewhere in this range. The more miles a business a load of lawn mowers will have to travel, the more they’ll have to pay.
Before lawnmower transport services can begin, it’s necessary to prepare the equipment for the journey. In the case of large freight shipments of mowers, these are usually taken care of by the manufacturer.
In any case,
it’s best to check that the following steps have been completed.
An empty gas tank is both lighter and safer to transport. For similar safety reasons, batteries are disconnected to avoid potential electrical issues.
Cleaning the lawn mowers will make them look fresh and new when they arrive at their final destination. Businesses shipping new equipment to a store can skip this step.
All loose parts on the lawn mower should be secured prior to transport. The open style of flatbed means components that are left on while in transit could be damaged or cause harm to other parts of the cargo.
Safe and efficient lawn mower transport services are essential. The team at Heavy Haul and Oversized has the skills and connections to ensure your cargo arrives without incident. We have a large network of flatbed carriers that can move your equipment safely.
They can transport your goods using these services:
When you ship a lawn mower, you deserve the best possible service. Fill out your flatbed transport quote to get safe and efficient care for your equipment. If you require more information, our team is available at (866) 902-2713 and is ready to take your questions.
Time and safety are crucial in shipping your heavy and oversized equipment. Fill out our quick quote form to get the right advice you need in no time!
Heavy Haul and Oversized
315 NE 14th Street #4122
Ocala, FL 34470