Key Considerations During Heavy Haulage
Moving heavy construction equipment such as cranes presents an array of problems for contractors. As such, most contractors choose to engage heavy haulage companies to conduct such works. Nonetheless, a lot of planning has to go into such transport to avoid accidents and causing disruptions on the road. If you are planning heavy haulage, below are some considerations you must make.
Choose suitable transport
Various factors will determine how you will transport the cargo. You must factor in the cargo's length, width, weight and height. If the load is too wide or long or if it has an unusual shape, you may have to dismantle it and transport the various components separately. The weight of the cargo will determine the number of axles the trailer will have. You may need more than one truck to haul very heavy or wide objects. In such instances, you may have to incorporate computer systems to ensure safety during transport.
Licences and permits
Some forms of large freight transport require permits from local authorities. For instance, if you will interrupt traffic during transport, you must ensure you inform the local police. In Australia, various state permits are required for oversized loads.
Drivers and other personnel
Your drivers must be experienced in large freight transport. Ensure that the drivers are in good shape both mentally and physically. Heavy haulage can be mentally demanding. The driver has to make calculations when making sharp turns, while in the highway and when changing gears. To prevent the drivers from getting fatigued, each truck should have more than one driver. You should also have technical personnel on location to respond to any issues that might occur during heavy haulage. The technical staff will work alongside the driver to ensure that the cargo arrives at its destination safely.
Road Safety
Below are some road safety tips during heavy haulage:
- Before commencing transport, inspect all the trucks and ensure that they are in good condition.
- Safely secure the cargo onto the truck. Choose appropriate load securing and restraint methods, taking into consideration the various forces that the load is subjected to during transport.
- Warn other road users of wide loads. Preferably, engage the police to redirect traffic if you expect to cause disruptions in the route you will take.
- For long-distance haulage, plan where to refuel and park the trucks.
- Make adequate preparations for accidents and mechanical problems that might arise during transport.
When planning heavy haulage, determine suitable transport, get the required state permits, have competent personnel and observe road safety.