Finding a great deal on a backhoe is really exciting, but if it's not close to home, you have to figure out how to transport it. Ideally, you should use a flatbed, but there are important tips to keep in mind through the process.

1. Make sure you are licensed for the job.

If you plan to transport the backhoe on your own, make sure you have the right licenses to transport it in your state. In some areas, to drive a flatbed, you must have a commercial driver's license, but that varies based on the weight of the truck and what you are hauling. Ensuring you have the right licenses in place, helps you avoid costly tickets or other issues.

2. Load the backhoe carefully.

To securely attach a backhoe to a flatbed, consider removing the pin from the bucket and lowering it. Then, you should use several chains and ratchet straps to hold the machinery in place. You may want to check with the hauling rules from your state's Department of Transportation to make sure you are compliant.

3. Consider hiring a professional flatbed transport company.

If you don't have the right license or machinery to move your new backhoe, consider hiring a professional flatbed transportation company such as Ripley Transportation Company, Inc. They can ensure that your backhoe arrives to your location safely and securely. Ideally, you may want a company close to your seller so you don't have to pay for extra mileage costs, and you also want a company with positive customer ratings.

4. Ask the seller to take care of shipping.

In other cases, you may simply want to ask the seller to arrange transit. If the seller sells a lot of heavy equipment, he or she may have a relationship (and even discount pricing) with a transport company. When the seller takes care of the issue, your price will likely be a bit higher, but ultimately, that saves a lot of time for you.

5. Have a few people to help with unloading.

Whether you transport the backhoe by yourself or hire a transport company to do it, you should plan to have a few people on hand to help with unloading. For example, you may need one person to act as a spotter so no one accidentally backs into a garage or shed. Another person needs to drive the backhoe off the truck, and finally, the driver of the flatbed may need to operate the lift on the bed from the truck cab. If you don't have people to help with unloading, make sure that the transport company can handle that for you.