If you’re in the construction industry, transporting heavy equipment to the job site is essential to your business. Ensuring your machines arrive at their destination on time is crucial to keep your projects on schedule. Safety is also a top priority — you’ll need to take appropriate steps to avoid accidents and injuries.
Use this informative guide to learn more about the various aspects of the process, such as securing the machine during transit, following safety protocols and implementing cost-effective transportation strategies.
The Role of Earthmoving Equipment in the Construction Industry
The size of the global construction equipment market attained a value of $142.39 billion in 2022 and is forecasted to reach $237.66 billion by 2030. These figures illustrate the reliance that companies have on bulldozers, excavators and other machines when performing essential earthmoving tasks. Mining and agriculture are examples of additional industries that need these machines every day.
Because of their importance to your company’s success, it’s vital to have a well-developed strategy for getting machines to your sites quickly and safely.
How to Secure Earthmoving Equipment During Transit
Safe and reliable construction equipment hauling requires following appropriate pre-transport and securement protocols.
Pre-Transport Preparation
Developing a comprehensive pre-transportation checklist can ensure consistent results for every move. Referring to an equipment assessment guide helps verify you’re taking the appropriate steps based on the machine type and size. Consult the right manual for your earthmoving equipment to find these details, and keep this information handy so the relevant team members can access it.
It’s also important to select the right method for transporting heavy equipment. For example, a flatbed trailer is ideal for larger, heavier loads, while a step deck trailer features a lower deck better suited for taller equipment. Details from your equipment’s manufacturer guidelines can help inform your transportation approach.
Spend as much time as necessary in the planning process to ensure you establish the right approach. Additionally, getting advice from professional equipment haulers can be highly beneficial.
Securing Techniques
Securing the load properly is essential for safe construction equipment transport. The appropriate techniques for this process include blocking and bracing to immobilize the machine, using heavy-duty straps, chains and binders to fasten it to the trailer, and placing padding and cushioning to prevent damage from friction.
Saving Money on Heavy Equipment Transport
While the actual cost to transport heavy equipment can vary widely depending on the carrier and other factors, you can expect to pay a few dollars per mile to transport earthmoving equipment. Developing a cost-effective strategy will ensure you’re not overpaying for your hauling needs. As a result, you can stay within your budget while getting access to the best equipment for the job.
Assess the factors that are impacting your transportation costs. Examples include your location, the distance of transport, and the equipment and hauling vehicle types. Develop strategies for limiting these expenses without jeopardizing safety, such as obtaining competitive quotes from multiple haulers and shipping during off-peak times.
Safety Protocols for Loading and Unloading Heavy Equipment
Loading and unloading heavy equipment is a hazardous task. Adhering to a safety-first mindset is essential for minimizing the risk.
Loading the Equipment
Here’s an overview of the steps for loading heavy equipment safely:
- Work as a team and designate specific responsibilities to each member.
- Remove oil, dirt and debris from the ramp and trailer.
- Clear and level the loading area.
- Line up the machine with the ramp.
- Use tight, secure chains to tie down the equipment so that it won’t move or bounce during transport.
Unloading and Positioning the Equipment
Follow these steps to unload the equipment safely at the site:
- Clear and level the area.
- Deploy the loading ramp on a flat surface.
- Carefully remove the chains.
- Slowly back the machine down the ramp.
- Inspect the equipment after it reaches the ground to ensure it sustained no damage.
Benefits of Heavy Equipment Rental Pickup and Delivery
Choosing the equipment pickup and delivery services offered by a reputable partner can remove the burden from your shoulders and enhance the rental experience.
Selecting an experienced equipment transporter ensures expert planning for your move, reducing the risk of injuries and machine damage. Your team will be available to perform other essential job site tasks, increasing productivity and saving valuable time. Moreover, you can trust that the company will have the most appropriate high-quality hauling equipment for the job.
In the construction industry, time is money. You can count on a reputable transport company with a proven track record to get your equipment to the site when it needs to be there. You’ll reduce the risk of costly project overruns and fulfill your customers’ expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heavy Equipment Transportation
The answers to these frequently asked questions can provide additional insight into heavy machinery transportation.
How Do You Transport a Digger or Mini Excavator?
The process for hauling compact equipment is similar to that for larger machines. A significant difference is the job requires a smaller trailer.
What Are the Transportation Methods for Full-Size Construction Equipment?
Extra steps may be necessary when hauling large or oversized machines. For example, you’ll need to plan the route to avoid roads with weight or height restrictions. You may also need a special trailer that can accommodate unusual dimensions.
What Are Some General Safety Guidelines for Heavy Equipment Transport?
Following these tips will improve the likelihood of a safe and successful equipment move:
- Choose the appropriate trailer type.
- Don’t exceed the trailer’s load capacity.
- Inspect the load after securing it.
- Only work with well-trained, experienced operators.
- Consider using a pilot car even if it isn’t required.
It’s important to note that transporting heavy equipment requires a commercial driver’s license in most cases. Working with a professional team to deliver and pick up your rented equipment can be the perfect option if your team is not licensed properly.
Reach out to Herc Rentals for Your Equipment Transportation Needs
Moving heavy equipment safely and efficiently can be a challenging task. The convenient pickup and delivery services offered by Herc Rentals offer a cost-effective solution for your business.
At Herc Rentals, our services include cost-effective pickup and delivery of our rental equipment. Our commitment to providing top-tier service and emphasizing safety and reliability ensures your rental will arrive on time and in ready-to-work condition.
When you work with us, you’ll get an experienced, reliable partner you can trust. We recognize the crucial role these machines play in your company’s success and we’ll ensure to get them to your site on time and in ready-to-use condition.
Contact us to learn more today.
