When using a trucking service for heavy equipment delivery, can you meet halfway?

How big is it? 3000-3500 should do it, if it’s small enough and you have a little time they should be able to run something else with it for 500 - 1000 less depending on size. Residential shouldn’t matter much, they are loading and unloading on their ramps anyways so no difference where unless you are out in the sticks

Sometimes it’s just no meant to be, Joe. If you want that specific mower ~1600 miles away from LA, then it’s gonna cost you. The price quoted seems within reason.

There are forums where you can find independent haulers that are already coming toward you with room (LTL- Less than Load). You can cut a deal with them but you have to be able to unload whatever it is. Used this a few times years ago. Must still be a thing.

You will be surprised at how much you can save.

If you're having trouble finding a business to unload at, pick a mower shop in your city of choice. Tell them you bought a used mower and are having it delivered to be inspected and checked out. Pick it up once done and hit the road.

You'll probably have to pay $200 for the inspection.

But in the end $1500 from Mass to Louisiana ain't bad. If you consider it's ~1700 miles, and a super duty diesel is getting 12mpg with a big trailer, and diesel is $4.5/gal, you have ~$600 in fuel costs alone one way. That assumes the guy can find another load in this area and backhaul.