Moving a 160‑Series Excavator Safely and Legally

[MikePhua]

Understanding the Challenge
Moving a 160-series excavator is more than just “getting it on a trailer and driving off.” These machines often weigh 15 to 20 tons, so deciding how to haul them safely and legally requires careful planning. Some common questions: What size truck is needed? What trailer capacity? How much tongue weight? These are not trivial — improper transport can risk safety, equipment damage, or legal issues.

Key Advice from Experienced Operators

• A practical minimum setup: a 33,000 lb (about 15-ton) truck paired with a 20-ton tag trailer. This provides a safe margin for both gross vehicle weight (GVW) and trailing capacity.
  
• A single-axle dump truck is generally not sufficient for a 160-size excavator. Several operators strongly caution against it due to safety risks.
  
• Many pros prefer using a tri-axle tag trailer for this kind of load. It helps with weight distribution and ensures better control on the road, especially when navigating uneven terrain or bridges.
  
• Ensuring proper tongue weight is critical. Too little and the trailer can sway or unload the rear axle; too much and it may overload the tow vehicle.
  
• When traveling over railroad grades or uneven road surfaces, the dozer can make the trailer feel unstable; some drivers even report rear tires lifting or losing grip if the setup isn’t balanced correctly.
  

Legal & Safety Considerations

• It’s not just about being “legal” — what’s most important is being safe and responsible. A setup that technically meets legal weight limits but is poorly balanced or under-equipped is still dangerous.
  
• Overweight or oversized loads may require special transport permits depending on your region. These permits may also require escort vehicles to warn other drivers.
  
• Not all trailers are created equal: for a 160‑series, a heavy-duty lowboy (lowbed) or a suitable tag trailer is often more appropriate than a simple flatbed.
  
• Securement is critical: use heavy-duty chains, wedge the excavator tracks, and make sure all moving parts (boom, bucket) are secured before transport.
  

Loading the Excavator

1. Inspect First
   • Examine the undercarriage, hydraulic lines, and attachments for any loose or damaged parts. Make sure there’s no mud or debris that could shift during loading.
     
2. Choose the Right Ramp / Trailer
   • Use ramps that are rated for the excavator’s weight and ensure they’re solidly supported.
     
3. Drive On with Care
   • Move the excavator slowly up the ramps. It’s usually best to reverse up so that the heavier end of the machine (rear) leads, improving balance.
     
4. Secure It
   • Lower the boom and bucket so they rest on the deck.
     
   • Lock out any articulation points.
     
   • Use at least four securement points: two front, two rear, ideally with edge protection on the trailer. Use rated chains or straps.
     
   • Use chocks or wedges on the tracks to prevent any rolling.
     
5. Final Check
   • Walk around the load to ensure everything is tied down properly.
     
   • Double‑check that nothing loose in the cab or attachments could shift mid-transport.
     

Real-World Insight
One experienced operator shared that although a tri‑axle tag trailer costs more and requires a larger rig, it’s “not worth risking it” with a smaller truck. On narrow or twisty roads, he said, “sometimes it feels like the hoe is driving the trailer, not me.” Proper trailer choice and weight distribution, he added, are what make these long hauls manageable.

Summary

• Don’t skimp: for a 160 series excavator, go with a strong truck (33K lb GVW or more) and a robust, multi-axle trailer.
  
• Prioritize safety, not just legality — report shows that many hauling accidents stem from poor weight distribution or insecure loads.
  
• Proper loading and securing practices are essential: inspect, secure, check.
  
• When in doubt, hire a professional heavy-haul carrier. The cost is often less than the risk.
  

Moving a big excavator isn’t a weekend DIY — but with the right rig and care, it can be done safely and effectively.