Hauling heavy equipment requires more than just putting it on a truck to transport it. Learn how to be successful a heavy hauling with our list of tips.
Obtain all Permits
All states require an oversize load permit to transfer heavy hauls. Each state has their own estimated cost of a permit, but typically there’s an additional $15 service fee on top of the state permit fee. All loads should not exceed dimensions of 80’ long x 12’ wide x 14’6” high. Construction companies can order permits directly from the state. To save on service fees, use a permit service where service companies know the rules and regulations of each state, then complete the necessary forms for a service charge, or go through the state’s website. An escort may also be needed depending on the load size and material. In this case, a private civilian escort or police escort is recommended.
Secure the Load
This is one of the most important aspects of transporting heavy hauls. Make sure to secure any loads tightly and efficiently. Otherwise, accidents can happen. Risks that can occur include injuries, property damage, financial loss, environmental damage, or death in extreme cases.
Know the Route
Every driver should know the route of their load-bearing vehicle, whether they’ll travel down a busy highway or through a construction site. Using a pilot car is a smart way to travel in real-time. Pilot cars alert drivers in real-time about road conditions, traffic, weather, accidents, or other obstacles. Pilot vehicles must be certified to reduce dangers affecting other motorists, the load driver, and escort operator. Tools like maps, on-board navigation systems, and GPS devices provide an accurate route for travel.
Use the Right Trailer
Using the right trailer is essential to transport your cargo. You have many different trailers to choose from depending on the material. Some of the most common include flatbed trailers, lowboy trailers, drop deck and extendable drop deck trailers (also called a stretch trailer), and gooseneck trailers. Flatbed trailers are an open platform used as a flat load-carrying space. Lowboy trailers have a low bed with two height drops, and it sits near the ground to transport construction equipment and vehicles. Drop deck and extendable drop deck trailers have a one drop deck that sits atop the back of the tractor unit. Extendable drop decks extend for long loads that require two support trailers underneath. Gooseneck trailers have a permanent adjustable bar attached to the bed.
All these tips will help you if you’re in the process of renting one of our cranes or rigging machines in Portland, OR. We recommend using stretch or lowboy trailers to transport any of our crane or rigging equipment.
