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Things To Know Before Transporting a Heavy Load

Heavy haulage transportation has unique logistical challenges that must be considered before starting your journey. Transporting overweight and oversized cargo involves many more complexities than regular transportation.

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Good planning and preparation are essential to ensuring a safe and efficient heavy haulage experience. Read on to discover five key things you should consider before transporting a heavy load.

What is heavy haulage?

Heavy haulage refers to the transportation of sizable items that demand specialist vehicles in order to be transported. This can include equipment and items such as:

• Diggers
• Cranes
• Bulldozers
• Excavators
• Static caravans
• Bulk goods
• Farm machinery
• Bulk fertiliser or grain

The cargo is taken to the desired location by being loaded onto specially designed heavy haulage trucks. Most commonly, heavy haulage is used by industries such as construction and agriculture but is required in a variety of instances.

Heavy haulage must be carried out by experts. Working with a heavy haulage specialist supplier like Emerson will ensure a safe and successful delivery.

1. Specifications

Be aware of government specifications regarding what qualifies as an abnormal load. Heavy haulage will be required if the item you wish to transport meets any of the following specifications:

• Heavier than 44,000 kg
• Over 2.9 metres wide
• Longer than 18.65 metres
• Has an axle load of more than 10,000kg for a single non-driving axle and 11,500kg for a single driving axle

Adhering to all the legal requirements when arranging heavy haulage is essential. Failure to do so may result in a receiving a graduated fixed penalty fine.

Following the specifications required by the government will ensure the safety of those helping transport your items and other road users. It will also prevent damage to the equipment you are transporting. Regular safety checks should be carried out throughout the process to confirm no issues have arisen.

2. Planning

A key consideration of heavy haulage transportation is good planning. Before embarking on the journey, you must take the required steps to guarantee the operation will unfold as smoothly and safely as possible. It may be necessary to inform the local authorities.

Heavy haulage vehicles must have an up-to-date MOT and suitable insurance. Drivers must hold the relevant licence.

Certain loads might require escort vehicles to accompany them to inform other road users of the abnormal load’s presence. Escort drivers are specially trained for this purpose. As such, proper arrangements must be made so that professionals can carry out the job.

3. Defining the route

Defining the route your heavy haulage will take is a crucial element of planning. Roads chosen must be confirmed to be suitable for large, abnormal loads ahead of time. Be especially vigilant of bridges, tunnels and junctions that heavy haulage may not be able to fit under or around. Make sure to research the area, including the pick-up and drop-off points, to determine if any additional equipment will be required.

Technology such as GPS tracking and route optimisation software can assist you in your planning. Plan some backup routes in case of unexpected road closures on the day of transportation.

Effective communication and coordination is a vital part of safe heavy haulage operations. It is a good idea to supply drivers and escort cars with headsets so they can easily communicate hands-free over the .

4. Cost

As with any element of a project, the sum total of the procedure must be calculated and factored into the budget before commitment. Careful planning will prevent any unwelcome surprises and additional costs on the transportation day.

5. Choose a reliable heavy haulage company

Successful heavy haulage operations require a comprehensive approach with careful planning, regulatory compliance, effective communication and equipment reliability.

The best way to ensure your heavy haulage is positive is to work with a reputable, reliable heavy haulage company. A good company will be able to offer expert advice and help on the key considerations above. You will benefit from their knowledge and experience, streamlining the process of transporting abnormal loads.

Emerson can help

At Emerson, our expert team specialise in executing seamless heavy haulage operations. We will arrange efficient movement, installation, removal and logistics to transport your equipment safely and efficiently.

Emerson’s professional heavy haulage equipment as well as our experience in providing these services equips us for any challenge. We have supplied heavy haulage solutions for plant and equipment, industrial tanks, rail and utility machines and much more.

We are a FORS Silver accredited transport business that prides itself on providing excellent customer service and satisfaction. Our reliable, expert team is on hand to answer any questions you have about heavy haulage transport. No matter how extensive, time-sensitive or unique your situation is, we would love to help.

With competitive price and timely delivery, longyong sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

The world of logistics is vast, and within it exists a crucial sector—the transportation of heavy equipment. This specialized branch of logistics management deals with the challenging task of safely moving massive, bulky, and often high-value machinery typically used in construction, mining, and agriculture.  

The nature and scale of these machines present a distinct set of challenges in the logistics industry. Hence, requiring a deep understanding of the complexities and a unique approach toward the planning, execution, and completion of such demanding tasks is essential.  

Below are the five things to know about heavy equipment transport: 

1. Transportation Methods 

There are various ways to transport heavy equipment, and the chosen method often depends on the size of the machinery, the distance to be covered, the destination, and even the associated freight transportation expenses.

Some of the most common transportation methods used for heavy equipment include the following: 

• Trucks: They’re the most common way to transport heavy equipment over short distances. They can be equipped with tie-downs and trailers like lowboys, step deck or specialized flatbed trailer accessories that accommodate different types of equipment provide utility, safety and efficiency in transportation.
• Rail: It can be a cost-effective way to transport heavy equipment over long distances. However, it can be more costly and time-consuming than other methods. 
• Water: It can also be a good option for transporting heavy equipment over long distances, especially if it’s being shipped internationally. However, it can be more expensive than other transportation methods. 
• Air: It can be the fastest way to ship heavy equipment, but it’s also the most expensive. This method is only used for transporting gigantic or highly valuable equipment. 

Knowing these transportation methods allows you to find the best heavy haul company to transport heavy equipment efficiently and safely.    

2. Route Planning 

Given the size and weight of the loads, route planning is critical in heavy equipment transport. This way, you can help ensure your equipment’s safe and efficient transport. Typically, there are many factors to consider in this process. These include the equipment’s size, weight, and dimensions, as well as route clearances, traffic, and weather conditions.  

You can begin planning your route once you’ve considered all these factors. It’s crucial to choose a route that’s safe and efficient. For instance, routes need to sidestep potential obstacles like low bridges, narrow roadways, and regions with weight restrictions. Furthermore, transportation times need to be planned around local regulations that might limit the transit of oversized loads during certain hours.

Finally, route planning associated with heavy equipment transport isn’t a task for the uninitiated. It requires professional expertise and experience to ensure the safety and efficiency of the operation. Companies like Titan Worldwide specializing in heavy equipment transport have the necessary equipment, knowledge of regulations, and trained personnel to carry out these tasks successfully. 

3. Regulatory Compliance 

Each state has its own rules regarding the transportation of heavy equipment, but here are some common regulations: 

• Weight and size restrictions: Heavy equipment is subject to weight and size restrictions on many roads and bridges. It’s essential to check the rules for the specific route to which the equipment will be transported to avoid problems later.  
• Oversize and overweight permits: If the equipment exceeds the weight or size restrictions, an oversize and overweight permit may be required. It can be obtained from the state transportation department in your area.  
• Securement requirements: Heavy equipment must be properly secured to the transport vehicle to prevent it from shifting or falling during transit. The securement system must be designed to withstand the forces of braking, acceleration, and wind. Check with your state or local transportation department about these systems.   
• Driver qualifications: Drivers transporting heavy equipment must have the appropriate licenses and training. They must also be familiar with the regulations for transporting heavy equipment. 

By following these regulations, you can ensure the safe transport of heavy equipment and avoid penalties.

4. Insurance Considerations 

The high value of heavy equipment makes insurance crucial. Shippers must ensure adequate coverage to protect themselves against potential damage or loss during transport. 

Here are some types of insurance needed when transporting heavy equipment:

• Physical Damage Insurance: This type of insurance covers the cost of repairs or replacement if the equipment is damaged in transit. 
• Liability Insurance: This type of insurance covers the cost of any damage or injuries caused by the equipment while it’s in transit. 
• Cargo insurance: This type of insurance covers the cost of the equipment itself if it’s lost or stolen in transit. 

The specific type of insurance needed may depend on the particular circumstances of the transport. So, it’s essential to consult with an insurance agent to determine the best coverage for your needs. 

5. Equipment Preparation 

Heavy equipment should be properly prepared before transportation. This process can include:   

• Inspecting the equipment
• Cleaning the equipment
• Draining fluids to prevent leaks
• Disconnecting batteries
• Securing loose parts
• Securing the equipment with chains or straps
• Covering the equipment

These steps help prevent damage during transit and ensure the equipment arrives in the best possible condition. 

Conclusion 

Transporting heavy equipment can be a complex undertaking that involves numerous considerations. Given the machinery’s size, weight, and value, all involved parties must comprehensively understand this process. 

Remember the information mentioned above if you’re transporting heavy equipment anytime soon. This way, you’ll be well-versed in the intricacies of this procedure to ensure the utmost efficiency and safety.

Author Bio: Amanda Nelson is currently a professional content writer.

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