6 February 2019
 Categories: , Blog

Contractors often have a hard time transporting large and unusually shaped equipment to their sites. Heavy haulage may take months or in some cases years of planning. In this blog, you will learn how to plan for heavy haulage.

Determining your load and trucks

What will you be transporting? Earthmovers and tractors are relatively easy to transport compared to unusually shaped objects such as turbines, rigs, boilers and telecommunication equipment. You need to find a reliable large freight transport company to help you transport the cargo. Preferably, the company should have experience in transporting similar equipment. Large loads may require special trucks such as self-propelled modular transporters. These are trucks with multiple computerised axles that aid in weight distribution and maneuverability.

Personnel

You will require various personnel during the planning and execution stage. The drivers operating the heavy hauliers must be experienced in such operations. If you will be on the road for days, ensure that you have a few drivers to avoid overworking the drivers. For unusual loads, you may also require engineers to help you decide the best method of transporting the cargo. During transport, you will need an emergency crew to respond to any mishaps.  

Route

Survey the route you intend to take. When transporting oversized loads, go with roads that have minimal traffic. Steep, narrow and winding roads might also present a logistical challenge. Also avoid transporting anything in poor weather, as the drivers will have reduced visibility and the roads might be slippery. 

Permits

In many areas, you need permits to transport heavy loads. If you are travelling inter-state, you can hire a lawyer to take care of all the required permits. Remember that you might have to pay a fee.

Safety during haulage

Safety is a vital consideration during heavy haulage. Below are some of the safety measures you should take. 

1. Loading the equipment. Most heavy haulers have ramps that make it easy for you to load plant equipment. However, you may require cranes, forklifts and hoists to lift heavy objects onto the truck.
2. Safely secure the load onto the truck. If the cargo becomes unstable, the truck may topple over.
3. Observe road safety when driving. Have personnel to warn other road users of oversized loads. You can also engage local law enforcement when passing through towns.
4. The trucks must be in good mechanical condition. Ask the transport company to service them before the journey. 

The primary considerations to make during heavy haulage are the trucks, load, personnel, route, permits and safety.