How To Execute Heavy Haulage
Posted on: 7 September 2022
Contractors often need to transport oversized plant equipment, generators, rigs, cranes, stone crushers, and dredgers across the Australian road network. If you are a contractor who intends to transport one of these machines, continue reading this detailed blog on how to execute heavy haulage.
Hire a Reliable Haulage Company
Although your company might have large trucks, it is always wise to hire a haulage company. While you will incur an extra charge, the company guarantees your machines arrive at their destination in one piece. Typically, haulage companies invest in technology, technical know-how, and equipment needed to transport oversized items. These tips should help you choose a haulage company:
- Examine the company's trucks to know if they are large enough to move your machines. The trailer's size and the vehicle's gross vehicle mass (GVM) should help you determine the truck's suitability.
- Use customer reviews to establish how the company relates to its clients. The rule is to consider companies that prioritise customer needs over their profits.
- Consider haulage companies that offer comprehensive services. For example, the company could provide cranes to help unload heavy machines.
- The haulage company must have reasonable conditions. For example, it should insure the load on transit. Moreover, the company should have flexible payment plans.
Permits
You will need different permits when transporting heavy machinery across the Australian road network. However, this should not be a bother if you hire a reputable company to move your machines. Typically, haulage companies must submit transport plans before receiving a permit to move your cargo. Furthermore, the company should contact local police traffic departments to divert traffic as the haulage truck transverses busy urban centres. The company could also need additional permits if the convoy crosses railway tracks or accesses aboriginal land.
Safety
Heavy haulage can be pretty hazardous. Therefore, ask the haulage company to detail the measures it will take to ensure the safety of other road users and prevent accidents. For instance, your machines should be tightly tied to the trailer bed to prevent movement that could cause instability. The company should also deploy a reconnaissance team to investigate haulage risks such as untarmacked roads, damaged bridges, slippery roads, sharp bends, and inclines. The haulage team should then develop strategies to overcome these risks. For instance, the truck could be towed to prevent wheel spin on slippery terrain. Finally, the company must use escort vehicles during haulage. These vehicles warn other motorists to slow down as they approach or overtake the haulage truck.
For more information, contact a local heavy haulage company.
Share
