Disclaimer: All costs and prices mentioned in this guide were sourced at the time of writing and should be used as estimates. The provided prices and information are subject to change and may vary depending on location and other factors. It is advisable to consult local sources and professionals for the most up-to-date and accurate details.

Transport and mobilisation costs for moving heavy machinery anywhere in the state vary significantly. Understanding the costs involved is essential for budgeting and project planning.

In this guide, we’ll break down heavy equipment transport & mobilisation fees in 2025, covering everything from local moves to interstate hauls.

What Affects Transport Costs?

Transporting heavy machinery is never a one-size-fits-all deal. Pricing depends on several factors, such as:

• Machine Size & Weight – The bigger and heavier the machine, the more expensive it is to transport. Oversized loads often require permits and pilot vehicles, adding to the cost.
• Distance – Short hauls (within a region) are cheaper than long-distance or interstate moves. Most transport companies charge per kilometre (km) or hour for haulage.
• Route & Accessibility – Remote areas like the Pilbara, Goldfields, and Kimberley may have higher costs due to road conditions, travel permits, and fuel surcharges.
• Permits & Escort Vehicles – If your equipment exceeds width, height, or weight limits, you may need escorts or police assistance, especially for interstate transport.
• Urgency – Express or last-minute transport attracts premium rates.
• Loading & Unloading – Some companies charge extra if they need to organise cranes or additional lifting equipment.

WA Heavy Equipment Transport Rates in 2025

Here’s what you can expect to pay for heavy machinery transport in WA this year. Prices are estimates based on industry rates and may vary depending on fuel prices, demand, and company policies.

Short-Distance Hauls (0–500 km)

For local moves, such as shifting machinery between sites in the Perth metro area or nearby regions:

• Small Equipment (e.g., skid steers, mini excavators, small rollers under 5 tonnes)
  – $500–$1,500 per trip
• Medium Machinery (e.g., 10-30 tonne excavators, graders, small dozers)
  – $1,500–$3,500 per trip
• Large Machinery (e.g., D9+ dozers, 50T+ excavators, dump trucks)
  – $3,500–$7,000 per trip

Regional & Remote Hauls (500–1,500 km)

If you're moving equipment to mining or civil sites in the Pilbara, Goldfields, or South West:

• Small Equipment – $1,500–$3,000
• Medium Machinery – $3,500–$6,500
• Large Machinery – $7,000–$15,000
• Super Heavy (100+ tonne machines, e.g., draglines, large earthmoving rigs) – $15,000+ (plus additional escort fees)

Example: Moving a CAT D8 dozer from Perth to Kalgoorlie (approx. 600 km) will likely cost around $5,000–$7,500.

Long-Distance & Interstate Heavy Machinery Transport Costs (WA to Other States)

If you're moving equipment out of WA, the costs increase significantly due to border permits, fuel levies, and long-haul logistics.

WA to Northern Territory (1,500+ km)

• Medium Machinery – $10,000–$20,000
• Large Machinery – $20,000–$35,000

Example: A 35T excavator from Perth to Darwin could cost $15,000–$25,000, depending on load dimensions and permits.

WA to South Australia (2,500+ km)

• Medium Machinery – $12,000–$25,000
• Large Machinery – $25,000–$40,000

Example: A D9 dozer from Perth to Adelaide will likely cost $30,000+ due to oversize restrictions.

WA to Queensland (3,500+ km)

• Medium Machinery – $18,000–$35,000
• Large Machinery – $35,000–$60,000

Example: Transporting a 100T mining truck from WA to a Queensland mine site could cost $50,000–$70,000, factoring in multiple pilot vehicles and road restrictions.

WA to Victoria or New South Wales (3,500–4,000+ km)

• Medium Machinery – $20,000–$40,000
• Large Machinery – $40,000–$70,000

Example: A large crusher plant from Perth to Sydney may require a specialist heavy haulage provider, costing $60,000+ due to logistics and permits.

Additional Costs to Consider

• Escort Vehicles & Pilots – Required for oversized loads; costs may range from $1,000–$5,000 per trip.
• Load Permits – Costs vary per state but can add $500–$5,000 per machine, especially for over-width or over-height loads.
• Express Transport Fees – If you need fast delivery, expect a 20–50% premium.
• Dismantling & Assembly – Some machinery requires partial dismantling, which can cost $2,000 - $10,000.
• Storage & Holding Costs – If your machine arrives early or can’t be delivered immediately, storage fees may apply ($50–$200 per day).
• Breakdowns & Road Delays – Some transport companies include breakdown insurance; others charge extra if delays occur.
• Fuel Surcharge – Fluctuating diesel prices may affect costs, typically adding 5-15%.

How to Reduce Your Transport Costs

• Plan Ahead – Booking early avoids rush fees and allows for better pricing.
• Combine Loads – If possible, share transport costs by moving multiple machines on the same trip.
• Choose the Right Transport Provider – Some specialise in interstate moves, while others are better for regional haulage. Get multiple quotes!
• Work with WA-Based Providers – Local transport companies know the best routes and permit processes, saving time and money.
• Consider Onsite Mobilisation – If you're hiring a fleet for a long-term project, check if the supplier can deliver and mobilise directly.

Get the Right Team for the Job

If you're in the mining, civil, or earthmoving industries in Western Australia, you know that moving heavy machinery isn't just about getting it from A to B—it’s about timing, compliance, and, most importantly, cost. 

Here are some of WA's trusted heavy haulage companies that can help your machinery get where it needs to be:

GTT KAL Pty Ltd GTTKAL Pty Ltd has a team of skilled operators to man the right equipment to cater to towing, transport and recovery services needs anywhere in Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the Goldfields region. We have tilt trays, low loader trailers, heavy tow trucks, container side loaders, cranes, forklifts, and drivers for hire for your towing, transport and recovery equipment needs…Read more

Terry Haulage Pty Ltd As one of the region’s trusted local freight & transport companies, Terry Haulage Pty Ltd provides professional transport solutions to mining companies in the Goldfields and Western Australia. We specialise in transporting mining equipment such as loaders, rollers, fuel tanks, support trucks, underground machinery, drill rigs, general freight service – anything at all. Read more here to learn about us...Read more

Brutum Logistics Brutum Logistics offers reliable freight and logistics services throughout Western Australia and the Interstate. We can provide accredited pilots, hotshots/urgent freight, heavy haulage/oversize, freight and logistics, pilot vehicles, and general freight services. We are your one-stop shop for all your needs in freight and logistics services in WA and Australia. There’s no freight job too big or...Read more

Saltbush Contracting Working Australia-wide, Saltbush Contracting offers general transport solutions to customers locally and further afield. We have an experienced team of operators and a working business relationship with our comprehensive supplier group. This ensures that we are always available to promptly supply the required vehicle for your project. We are committed to supplying...Read more

PEP Transport Fastparts PEP Transport Fastparts offers domestic, air and sea courier services, excess baggage, and package/parcel delivery services throughout Australia. We also offer express document and international courier services with tracking available. Our pricing models are flexible, depending on the volume of the package you'll be sending and the level of service you'll be availing...Read more

DCN Transport DCN Transport is a freight company providing hotshot freight services across Australia. As an accredited freight service provider, we can deliver your package anywhere in Australia. We do minesite deliveries, emergency parts courier, sample runs, general towing and breakdown services, back-loading, door-to-door and express deliveries anytime and anywhere. There is...Read more

Desert Sands Cartage Contractors Founded in 1989 by Rex Ryles, Desert Sands Cartage Contractors is dedicated to supplying haulage transport to local and remote areas in the region. We have extensive experience in hauling gold ore, nickel ore, and concrete, along with sand and gravel. We've also been the leading fuel and bulk potable drinking water distributor of the local government over...Read more

LYNC Services LYNC has experienced and trained experts who can help you with the following transport services, including express hotshot service, mine site deliveries and pickups, and urgent deliveries for commercial or residential sectors in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. We ensure your freight is in good hands and gets to where it needs to go on time. So, whatever and wherever you want your package...Read more

Rapid Rescue Towing If you require 24-hour towing, you can trust Rapid Rescue Towing to help! With our experience and knowledge of the local area, you can trust that our team of experts will deliver fast and efficient service. We also provide RAC roadside assistance and 24-hour breakdown and recovery service. We guarantee to meet your requirements and deliver quality services...Read more

Final Thoughts

Heavy equipment transport is a significant expense, but with careful planning and the right transport provider, you can keep costs under control. 

Do you need a custom quote for your next move? Contact the heavy haulage specialists above for tailored pricing based on your machine size and destination, or visit our directory at Goldfields Key to access local quotes and start your project with confidence.

Please note that the costs and prices mentioned in this article are indicative and should be used as a guideline. They may vary by location and are subject to market fluctuations.