Heavy machinery transportation is rather more intricate than light or consumer transportation. Standard equipment and machinery are typical, normal weight, normal size, and symmetrical, with no special concerns for your business. However, heavy machinery often comes with unusual sizes and weights. Some of the following pieces of specialized equipment including hydraulic lifting systems and customized trailers are used in the transportation of heavy equipment. Learn the difficulties of transporting heavy machinery and how to solve them so that you can get a good heavy equipment moving company for your business.
The Challenges of Moving Heavy Machinery Items
When transporting heavy machinery, there are several issues that you may encounter. This equipment is typically big, massive, and also delicate or requires some special conditions, which are risky. Industrial generators, cranes, and excavators are some of the heavy equipment that need special handling during transportation. The major challenges you may notice are below:
1. Weight Concerns
The first issue you are most likely to face is the weight of your heavy equipment. It is best to use load-bearing transporters or reinforced trailers to move equipment that weighs more than several tons. Without the proper equipment, the consequences are vehicle failure, vehicle stress, and road damage.
2. The Size of the Machinery
The size of the machinery is also a major issue. Most of the time, standard roadway dimensions are not enough to handle the equipment that is needed to move heavy machinery. You might have to contract for special escort vehicles and get permits, which will cost your business time and money.
3. General Safety Issues
Safety risks are also realized when handling heavy machinery. There are many causes of heavy equipment shifs during transportation, including incorrect weight distribution, inadequate securing methods, and improper loading. This can cause the vehicles to overturn or to respond in a way that can lead to very serious accidents.
Special Equipment for Moving Heavy Machinery to Consider
The following are some of the specialized equipment that are used in the transport of heavy machinery based on the type of machinery being transported:
1. Lowboy and Flatbed Trailers
Lowboy and flatbed trailers are the most popular ones used for delivering heavy machinery. Flatbed trailers are suitable for equipment that is easy to load and secure to the trailer as they offer a stable surface. However, lowboy trailers are ideal for very heavy and oversized equipment since they have a lower deck which makes it easier to load and offload the equipment.
2. Hydraulic Lifting Systems
Hydraulic lifting systems may also be needed when transporting heavy machinery. Due to the weight and size of heavy machinery, the power of hydraulics is often used to lift and lower into and out of trailers and modular transporters.
3. Modular Transporters
Modular transporters are used for very large and heavy cargoes which ordinary transport equipment cannot handle. They are self-propelled transporters with adjustable axles for the main intention of weight distribution.
4. Special rigging and crating equipment
Due to the fact that heavy machinery is susceptible to being damaged, it is often necessary to take certain precautions during transport. Some of the custom crates and rigging equipment items that are used to secure and protect heavy machinery during transportation.
How Specialized Equipment Enhances Safety and Efficiency
Using special equipment for transporting heavy machinery is not only convenient but also safer and more efficient for other road users. For instance, a major concern when handling heavy machinery is that the load may not be stable. Specially designed trailers, hydraulic systems, and specialized rigging equipment also help to prevent shifting during transportation.
This can prevent cargo spills, rollovers, and severe damage which may occur during transportation. Efficiency is another major benefit. Transporting heavy machinery is usually time-bound, and delays are costly. All of the aforementioned equipment has the tendency of making the process easier and less complicated, hence eliminating any possibility of delay. This can help your company save money.
The other important advantage that should be pointed out is legal compliance. This is a significant part of transporting heavy machinery because there are many rules that pertain to safety, roads, and weights. Because of this, your business will not only experience delays in delivery but may also be liable for some expensive penalties.
Safely transport your heavy machinery
With the right equipment, the transportation of heavy machinery can be smooth and problem-free regardless of the challenges that come with it. If your business needs heavy machinery transport then it is advised that you seek the services of a logistics expert. They will be able to offer you adapted transportation solutions that will ensure your heavy machinery is delivered safely and in one piece, and on time.