Along with arranging quality material and hiring skilled workers, getting equipment ready at hand is also essential for the preparation of a construction site.

Safe and secure transportation of machinery and heavy equipment must be carried out to ensure on-time completion of a project. However, minor negligence in the handling or transportation of the equipment can result in a massive loss of money and time.

This article has gathered a few common mistakes people make that should be avoided with their solutions while transporting heavy machinery to construction sites.

Choosing the Wrong Trailer

Loading equipment on any random trailer is not a wise decision. Instead, it is better to consider the trailer’s capacity for load and the space requirement of the equipment.

Check whether the shape of the trailer would accommodate the machinery without causing any damage to it. Selecting the right trailer from the vast array of options available is necessary. In order to choose a suitable one, keep in mind the dimensions and weight of the machinery and pieces of equipment that are to be loaded.

For example, flatbed trailers are ideal for loading oversized and bulky equipment, such as cranes. Since they have no walls or raised sides, they enable the loading and unloading of cargo from any side. Similarly, step deck trailers work efficiently for taller and heavier cargo.

Another factor that needs to be checked is the condition of the vehicle. Everything should be functional and reliable, from the tire to the engine, brakes, and more. The selection of the trailer should be made, keeping its load, shape, and size capacities at top priority.

Loading Everything Together

Usually, there are various fragile parts and accessories that are attached to the construction machinery. Disassemble these parts and wrap them in separate compact boxes or bubble packaging before loading the cargo. If the overall equipment does not fit the trailer’s space, remove the large detachable parts and load them on a separate trailer. While loading all the equipment on a single trailer might seem like a great money-saving option, it can be risky for the cargo, and the damages could cost even more.

Book a different trailer for hazardous chemicals if included in the transporting load. For additional safety, secure the chemicals in a seal-tight packaging so that they do not interact with other things in the cargo during transit.

Violating Transportation Laws

Every state has its distinct and defined set of rules and regulations issued for all modes of transportation. These rules aim to set boundaries for every transportation company while ensuring the protection of residents. Not obeying these rules can put life at risk and lead to severe punishment if caught by the law enforcement authorities. The punishment may vary from a hefty fine to a ban on the company or services. Never overload a trailer and refrain from loading items that might be declared prohibited by state officials.

The vehicle and driver should be registered officially. Ensure all the essential licenses and certifications required for legal transportation of bulky equipment on a commercial level are also available.

Not Planning Correct Routes Beforehand

It is necessary to consider the condition of the roads that will be used when transporting construction goods. Do not choose routes that are extremely long with uneven roadways. Instead, plan the shortest possible smooth, and even route leading to the destination so that the equipment receives minimum vibrations and arrives intact. Be sure to confirm the traffic and weather conditions to avoid hassles and risk of damage while ensuring on-time portation.

Risking On the Performance of Hired Labor

The staff hired to load, unload, and transport the equipment should be proficient in their respective tasks. They should have their expertise in handling machinery and fragile items. Similarly, the driver should have a good know-how of every suitable route to the destination. Handing over crucial tasks to non-professional workers may lead to recurrent delayed transportation or cause the equipment to suffer damage.

Trusting Inefficient Transportation Companies

While searching for a heavy-equipment transportation company, you will come across hundreds of names. However, only a very few of them would be worth your consideration and money. A good transportation company is responsive to clients and moves and delivers the cargo on time with due care and diligence. It’s best to research beforehand or choose a trusted transportation company referred by someone to avoid possible inconveniences.

Endnote

Transportation of heavy equipment and goods used for construction purposes is not as simple as it seems to be. Many people usually make some common mistakes while transporting cargo that costs them valuable time and money.

In order to prevent these adverse outcomes, there are a number of things that require careful considerations for transporting goods safely and on schedule. Selecting the right trailer, planning appropriate routes, loading the cargo strategically, and being wary of the laws are all necessary for ideal transportation.