Heavy Haulage Best Practices
Posted on: 4 August 2021
Transporting oversized goods is not only a challenging but also a risky affair. For this reason, heavy haulage requires meticulous planning to ensure the load arrives without any damage. The article below details some heavy haulage best practices.
1. Always Understand Your Load
More often than not, clients cannot accurately describe the item they need to transport. As such, the haulage company must physically inspect the load to establish an appropriate method of haulage. For example, some loads can be dismantled and reassembled at the destination. The haulage team should also assess the weight and dimensions of the load to determine an appropriate trailer. Further, they must decide how they will load and unload the cargo. In most cases, plant equipment such as industrial forklifts and cranes are used to perform these tasks.
2. Choose An Appropriate Truck
Once you understand what you will be transporting, it becomes easier to choose an appropriate haulage truck. Typically, you should be concerned about the engine capacity of the truck and trailer specifications such as the axles and size of the tray. When hauling oversized loads, it is wise to go for modular transporters. These trailers are easier to navigate since their wheels have a steering function. As a rule of thumb, the haulage truck must be serviced to prevent mechanical issues along the way. Additionally, have an alternative truck on standby to be used if the primary trailer breaks down.
3. Understand The Haulage Regulations
Below are some haulage regulations to follow in Australia:
- Some states regulate when you can transport oversized loads. For instance, it could be between sunset and sunrise.
- Heavy haulage trucks must be escorted by pilot vehicles.
- Heavy haulage trucks and pilot vehicles must have adequate signage and warning lights.
- In some cases, the haulage team must contact local police, especially if they will use urban roads.
- Drivers must observe the speed limits on the roads.
4. Create A Transport Plan
A transport plan will ensure organisation during the trip. Typically, the program details the vehicles in the convoy and the responsibilities of each team member. Besides, it explains the contact persons during the trip. For example, the haulage truck could need to be towed if the chosen route has a steep hill. In this case, the team could opt to hire a tow truck along the way. The plan also contains a haulage timetable detailing when haulage starts, the stops to be made and when the convoy will arrive at the destination.
When planning heavy haulage, understand the load, choose an appropriate truck, understand haulage regulations and create a transport plan. Contact a company that offers heavy haulage services to learn more.
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