4 Top Considerations for Contractors When Hauling Heavy Machinery

Most modern building construction projects require equipment to enhance quality, safety, economy, timeliness, and speed. As a construction project proponent, you might decide to purchase massive machines such as earth-movers, cranes, and bulldozers. However, this option might be untenable because buying machinery and equipment will set you back hundreds of thousands of dollars. Therefore, a viable option is to hire the equipment for all your construction needs such as hoisting, earth moving, hauling, and conveying. After leasing, you have to consider various factors when transporting the machinery and equipment to your site. Here are factors to bear in mind.   

Weight Capacity -- Construction machinery are weighty loads that need advanced forms of transportation. The average weight of construction equipment can be up to 90 tonnes. As a result, the company that you choose to haul such machinery should have a fleet of modern tow trucks and flatbed trailers to withstand the weight. Haulage companies that have been in business for years will know the weight requirements of their clients only if you provide them with the type of machinery you will be transporting. 

Wide Load -- In Australia, regulations, and laws that govern the transportation of full loads including construction equipment vary from state to state and territory to territory. For instance, if you are hauling the equipment between states, you have to consult a professional haulage contractor that is familiar with such laws and regulations. On most occasions, you would need some permits to access certain highways because of the extraordinary weight of the flatbed. Furthermore, familiarity with traffic laws regarding aspects such as following distance and restrictions on night travel might need to be observed when moving construction machinery.

Securing the Load -- Most flatbed trailers have chains or straps to secure cargo and offer stability. However, in cases where you need to transport delicate but dangerous construction equipment, you need to provide extra reinforcement. The excess weight of the machine can cause the trailer to wobble, especially when turning around sharp bends. Therefore, securing the cargo with two or three additional chains or straps at every point or node will reduce the swaying, and thus, protect the load. Besides, reinforcing the equipment prevents potential accidents from occurring.

Cost -- The cost of transporting equipment to a construction site is one of the significant factors that influence timelines and overall cost of the construction project. Additionally, you need to review the packages and rates of different service providers before engaging anyone. Nonetheless, price alone might not tell the whole story; you need to look at other factors such as round the clock operation and insurance coverage.          

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