All You Need To Know About Heavy Haulage
Posted on: 6 August 2020
Do you intend to transport an oversized load such as a house, turbine or piece of heavy construction equipment? Below are a few things you need to know about heavy haulage.
Preparation
Finding a suitable heavy haulage company can be a difficult task. Some of your concerns should include:
- Conduct some research to ascertain the reputation of the company. Preferably, they should have hauled similar goods in the past.
- Internet reviews and customer testimonials will help you examine the reputation of the company. As a rule, you should avoid companies with negative reviews.
- The haulage company should have a friendly customer care department. Otherwise, you may have trouble tracking your goods.
- Check the pricing policy, terms and conditions of the haulage company. Beware of additional costs, unreasonable terms and conditions.
The haulage company should assist you in planning the haul. For instance, they should examine the load and help you choose a suitable truck. Besides, they should conduct a road inspection to identify hazards such as low lying bridges and slippery roads. More often than not, the haulage truck may need to be pushed or towed if the route has sharp inclines.
The company should also help you secure the permits required to haul the load. For example, in Australia, you will need a licence to use the road network, cross a railway line or access aboriginal land.
Safety Tips
An experienced mechanic will help you examine the condition of the haulage truck. Worn out tires, engine problems and faulty suspension and braking can cause accidents. In Australia, heavy haulage trucks must be escorted by pilot vehicles. The pilot drivers will also alert the heavy haulage driver of changing road conditions such as traffic jams and harsh weather. An emergency team consisting of mechanics, engineers and paramedics will help you handle accidents on the road. Besides, you should have emergency contacts to local police, ambulance services and the fire department.
Execution
You might need forklifts and backhoe loaders to load and unload the cargo. Check state laws to understand heavy haulage restrictions. For instance, you may be prohibited from transporting oversized loads during the day. Create a transport plan detailing how you will move the load, the roads you will use and how you will handle unforeseeable incidents. Carefully plan your stops. For long-distance haulage, you will need to refuel the truck and pilot vehicles. Besides, the team might need accommodation, food and drinks.
You should now have an easy time planning and executing heavy haulage. Work with a reputable company and observe the recommended preparation and safety tips.
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