Why Hauling a Very Heavy Load Is Never As Simple As Driving from A to B

16 March 2022
 Categories: Automotive, Blog

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If you have a particularly bulky item that you need to transport to or from your primary workplace, you have a considerable amount of planning ahead. What are some of the key factors to take into account as you begin to assess your strategy?

Routing

Firstly, you have to figure out your basic route. If you are transporting over a considerable distance or moving interstate, you may need to get permission from a variety of different institutions. Each state has its own regulations that cover loads that may be classified as "over mass, over size" (OMOS), and local jurisdictions may have their own say in the matter.

Suitability

Many roads may be simply unsuitable as they could contain bridges with low clearance or other surfaces that are not designed to withstand a certain weight. Some routes may have narrow lanes or multiple roundabouts, which can be a particular challenge if the load in question is very long.

Significant Restrictions

Even if you do develop a route that looks "okay," the local authority may still impose restrictions. They may tell you that you cannot travel during the normal, daytime working hours, and you may have to plan an entire journey that takes place in the darkness. In this case, you may have to break up your trip and park your load at a suitable place during daylight hours. In this case, you'll have to get permission from the facility when you find such a location.

Safety First

Don't forget that you will have to conform to various safety regulations, which means a particular approach to loading, securing and checking. If any part of your load is classified as hazardous or may be subject to biosecurity rules, expect stringent checks from government regulators and significant fines if you fail to comply.

How to Proceed

So, as you can see, there are numerous factors to take into account before you can plan a significant journey like this. You will need to understand all the appropriate regulations to begin with, and this should lead you to the various federal, state and local government departments that may want to have a say in the matter. Once you are past that stage, you will then need to find the right equipment, together with the expert personnel who can ensure that the load is properly secured and transported.

The Better Approach

It's far better to outsource the entire job to experts in the heavy haulage sector. They will have the necessary experience and will surely know who to contact without any unnecessary delay.

For more information on heavy haulage, contact a company near you.