Heavy Equipment Transport Best Practices
Transporting heavy equipment requires an elevated level of expertise, experience, an eye for detail, and a commitment to safety. It’s a highly complex process and equipment must conform to very specific weight, height, width, and length requirements that’s not uniform across all states. Equipment transport also requires the use of specialized trailers. North American Heavy Haul pioneered many of the best practices that are now standard procedure within the industry. The following are just a few of the best practices that are employed for equipment transport.
Remove Dirt and Debris
Prior to loading, equipment must be clean and free of dirt or debris that could come off during transport.
Placement
It’s critical that equipment be loaded so weight is distributed evenly.
Load Securement
Every load must be secured prior to beginning its journey. Chains are the preferred method. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations whenever possible for securement points. Secure any articulation points. Loads should be checked periodically throughout the transport to ensure there’s been no movement or tampering.
Wheel Bracing
Make sure all wheeled of the equipment are chocked, cradled or wedged to prevent movement.
Lower Moveable Parts
If the equipment has attachments such as booms, arms or plows, make sure they’re completely lowered and secured to the trailer. If they’ve been removed from the equipment, they must be secured separately.
Load Dimensions
Ensure that all width, height, length and weights are within the appropriate parameters.
Warning Equipment
Ensure that any requirement such as warning lights, special signage, escort vehicles, and permits are all in place.
Safety is the Key
Precautionary measures and adhering to accepted standards are the keys to keeping equipment, personnel and other motorists safe. It’s just one of the reasons that North American Heavy Haul has earned a reputation for excellence among customers and peers within the industry.
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