Transporting heavy and oversized loads can be a risky affair. More often than not, haulage companies will spend a few weeks planning how they can move a heavy load from one location to the other. Below are some tips on how to plan and execute heavy haulage. 

Loading And Unloading

What do you intend to move? Take the dimensions and weight of the object you wish to transport. These specifications will help you choose a suitable truck. In Australia, there are restrictions on the amount of weight your truck can carry. You may need to dismantle the load if it exceeds the weight limits of the roads you will use. The same applies when transporting loads that are too wide. You will need special equipment, such as cranes and forklifts, to load and unload your cargo. Straps and chains will secure the items on the truck.

Route Planning

Below are some route planning tips to observe: 

1. Identify any low-lying bridges, slippery roads and sharp corners that the heavy haulage truck cannot navigate.
2. Conduct a weather forecast to know whether you will experience storms and heavy rain when transporting the cargo.
3. Plan your stops. For instance, where will the trucks refuel? Where will the team make stops? In some states, you are not allowed to transport heavy loads during the day.
4. You will need towing equipment if you will travel off-road or tackle steep slopes. 

You will need to apply for a variety of permits to transport an oversized load in Australia. The heavy haulage company should help you apply for these licences. You should also contact local police services if you intend to travel through urban areas. If the route has low-lying electrical cables or street lights, contact the power company and ask them to shut down the power momentarily.

Safety Tips

Safety is a vital concern when transporting heavy loads. In Australia, some heavy loads must be escorted by pilot vehicles. The pilot cars should have warning lights and reflectors to improve their visibility at night. Besides, they should have walkie-talkies to ease communication between the pilot drivers and the driver of the haulage truck. 

Plan for emergencies as you transport the heavy load. For instance, tire bursts are a common occurrence during long-distance haulage. Besides, the trucks and escort vehicles may develop overheating or braking problems. As such, you should have a team of mechanics or engineers on hand to conduct mechanical repairs. Alternatively, you could ask a mobile truck repair service to provide roadside assistance.  

When transporting heavy loads, determine a suitable loading and unloading procedure and observe the recommended route planning and safety tips. 

To learn more, contact a heavy transport company.