Top Tips When Planning Bulk Haulage

23 July 2019
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog


Contractors regularly need to transport unusual objects and machines such as turbines, telecommunication equipment and massive earthmovers. Transporting such equipment can be dangerous. However, with the tips below, you should have an easy time planning and executing bulk haulage. 

What Will You Transport? 

Engage a reputable and experienced bulk haulage company to transport your cargo. These companies have large trucks, such as self-propelled modular transporters, equipped to carry unusual loads. For smaller loads, hire a truck or use one of your own.

Loading

For earthmovers, all you require is a ramp and a heavy-duty winch. However, you may need a crane to load unusual objects that do not have wheels. Alternatively, you may opt to build custom trolleys to ease loading and movement to the site after unloading. Your load must be properly secured; otherwise, the truck could topple when handling sharp corners or inclines.

Budget

Heavy haulage can be expensive; hence, you must be adequately prepared. Preferably, ask your lawyer to secure and pay for the various permits required to transport the load. You may need to hire additional trucks to tow the bulk haulage truck. Besides, you need reconnaissance and pilot vehicles. An emergency fund will come in handy in case of accidents. If you choose to work exclusively with a heavy haulage company, ask for a contract detailing all aspects of your agreement. 

Route

Survey the route you will use to identify risks such as slippery roads, sharp corners, low lying electrical poles, narrow roads and bridges. If the route is challenging, you may opt to use a longer but safer road.

Transport Team

Members of the planning team must make acquaintance at the earliest stage. The team will compromise the emergency crew, reconnaissance team, drivers of the haulage truck and pilot vehicles. Do not plan the trip in isolation; engage your staff as they have a berth of experience.

The welfare of your staff can significantly influence the result of the exercise. The team should make stops every few hours for drivers to refresh. For long-distance haulage, the haulage truck should have two drivers. 

Permits

In Australia, you require a road permit to use various road networks. If the heavy haulage truck will cross a railway line, you must inform the rail infrastructure manager in advance. If the truck will pass through a town, engage local law enforcement to help redirect traffic.  

Bulk haulage must be carefully planned and executed. Work with an experienced team to avoid accidents and damages during loading and unloading. Remember to carry the permits during transport. 


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