Buyer Guide
How to Ship Industrial Equipment After an Auction: Logistics Guide
Riggers, freight, permits, and removal windows: everything you need to get your equipment from the auction facility to your door.
Contact a Rigger Before Removal Day
Professional riggers specialize in disconnecting, skidding, crating, and loading industrial machinery. Contact a rigger as soon as you win. They book quickly, especially during busy auction seasons. Get a quote that includes disconnecting, loading, and any blocking or crating needed.
Get a Freight Quote Before Bidding
For large equipment, get a freight estimate before you bid, not after. The cost of moving a 20-ton machining center 1,000 miles can exceed $5,000. Oversize or overweight loads require specialized carriers and permits. Budget this into your maximum bid calculation.
Confirm the Removal Window Dates
Each auction specifies a removal window, typically 5–10 business days after auction close. Check these dates in the Terms & Conditions. Missing the window results in storage fees (which can be significant) and potential forfeiture of equipment.
Arrange Appropriate Transport (Flatbed, Enclosed, LTL)
Most industrial equipment ships on flatbed trailers. Heavy or high-value machines may require lowboys (for height clearance) or enclosed trailers (for sensitive equipment). Less-than-truckload (LTL) freight works for smaller items. Confirm the right trailer type with your rigger and freight broker.
Obtain Required Permits for Oversized Loads
Equipment exceeding standard width, height, length, or weight limits requires state-by-state permits and may require escort vehicles. Your freight carrier handles permits, but allow 5–10 business days for multi-state moves. Factor permit costs into your freight budget.
Coordinate with KD Staff for Facility Access
Contact KD to schedule your specific pickup time within the removal window. We coordinate multiple buyers simultaneously, scheduling in advance prevents conflicts and ensures forklift or crane access is available when you arrive. Bring your invoice and a valid ID.
Inspect Equipment on Pickup and Document Any Damage
Walk the equipment with your rigger before loading. Photograph the current condition. Any damage that occurred after your inspection should be documented and reported immediately. Once equipment leaves the facility, the condition is your responsibility.
Common Questions
Who pays for removal?
The buyer is responsible for all removal costs: rigging, loading, transport, and any permits. This is stated in every auction's Terms & Conditions. Factor these costs into your budget before bidding.
What is a rigging company?
Riggers are specialized contractors who safely disconnect, move, and load industrial machinery. They have the equipment (forklifts, cranes, skates, rigging hardware) and expertise to move heavy and complex machines without damage. Using an unqualified mover on industrial equipment is risky and can void insurance.
How far in advance should I book a rigger?
Book immediately after winning, before the removal window opens. Good riggers in industrial markets book out 1–2 weeks. For complex machines or tight removal windows, contact riggers the same day you win.
What if I miss the removal window?
Storage fees apply for equipment left after the removal window closes. In some cases, equipment may be forfeited if not removed within a reasonable extension period. Contact KD immediately if you need more time. We'd rather arrange an extension than deal with abandoned equipment.
Also consider buying direct.
KD Machinery sells used industrial equipment dealer-direct, often with delivery coordination included. No rigging bidding wars required.
Need Help Finding a Rigger?
KD maintains a network of vetted riggers and freight brokers. Contact us for a referral.
Find a Rigger