- What Is Heavy Equipment?
- First Step Determine Your Pickup Location(s)
- Transport Options
- Trucking service
- Hauling service
- Self-hauling
- Top Types of Haulers for Heavy Equipment
- Truck
- Semi-trailer
- Flatbed
- Pintle trailer
- Big tex trailers
- Permits and Insurance for Transporting Heavy Equipment
- Insurance
- Permits
- Liability insurance
- Safety Tips
- Safety gear
- Choose an experienced driver
- Moving equipment
- Organization
- Use a GPS system
- Be careful around bridges
- Don't overload your truck
- Plan ahead
There are many reasons why you might need to transport heavy equipment.
Maybe you're moving your business to a larger facility and need to move everything over there. Or perhaps you are starting a new construction project and need construction equipment machines, or you're a farmer needing large agricultural machines for your farm.
Whatever the reason, it pays to know what options are out there.
This article will help you find the best way to get your heavy equipment from the dealer to your intended location. We'll also cover how to ensure that you don't damage anything on the way.
What Is Heavy Equipment?
Heavy equipment includes bulldozers, backhoes, graders, excavators, skid steers, and other types of machinery. They are used by contractors who need to move dirt around or build roads.
You might think these machines would weigh a lot, but most only weigh about 10 tons. However, some of them weigh up to 100 tons! That means that you cannot simply drive them down the street. You need to take them to a place where there is a ramp or a loading dock.
When you collect the machine, ensure you bring all the loading equipment you need. For example, you will need a jack, a dolly, a winch, and a shovel.
First Step: Determine Your Pickup Location(s)
The first thing to do is figure out where you will be taking the equipment. This can be tricky because some dealerships have multiple locations. In this case, you may not even know which one you will use until you arrive at the dealership.
If you're lucky enough to only have one location, it's easier to calculate fuel costs and the equipment needed. However, if you have multiple pickup locations, you'll need to take into account the distance and road conditions that might vary.
Transport Options
Now that you've figured out where you're going, you need to decide on the best method for getting there. You have a few means of transport, from outsourcing the project to doing it yourself.
There are several different companies with solid reputations that specialize in hauling equipment for customers. Or you can go the bold route and do it yourself.
Trucking service
One option is to hire a trucking service to help haul your equipment to your destination. You'll save money and time because you won't have to rent a vehicle yourself. A reputable trucking company will also ensure that your equipment gets delivered safely.
If you decide to go this route, make sure you find a company with good reviews on sites like Yelp and Google. Also, be sure to ask for references before signing any contracts.
Hauling service
A second option is to call a local hauling service. These companies specialize in helping people move things of all shapes and sizes. They can usually get you an estimate within minutes, and they often offer discounts if you pay upfront.
The equipment dealer can provide you with everything you need to get the work done, but getting it there safely and efficiently requires careful planning. You don’t want to end up with damaged or broken pieces of heavy equipment that could put your entire operation out of commission.
For this reason, it is smart to hire a reputable transportation provider to help you move your equipment.
A qualified moving company can transport anything from large trucks and trailers to forklifts, tractors, cranes, excavators, and even concrete mixers. They can handle everything from local moves to long-distance moves across state lines.
When you use a professional moving company, you can rest assured that your equipment will arrive undamaged and ready to go. In addition, you won't have to worry about finding storage space for your equipment once it gets to where it needs to be.
Self-hauling
The final option is to do it yourself. This may seem daunting at first, but it's quite easy once you've got the right tools and understand the process. In fact, many people who try it are surprised by how much easier it is than they expected.
Transporting heavy equipment is a big deal, however, and it can also be very expensive. If you are planning to transport your vehicle or heavy equipment, there are several things that you need to consider before doing so.
Before you begin, ensure that you know the details of the equipment that needs to be transported. This includes:
- What type of equipment is being moved?
- How much does it weigh?
- Are there any special requirements or limitations on how the equipment should be handled?
- Are there any specific regulations regarding the transportation of this equipment?
You'll also want to consider whether you'll be transporting the pieces of equipment in an enclosed trailer or if you'll be using a flatbed truck.
If you are unsure about anything, contact the dealer where the equipment was purchased. They may also be able to provide information about the manufacturer’s specifications.
The equipment dealer may also have recommendations for vehicles that would work well for your situation. Some dealerships offer their own fleet of trucks, so they might be able to recommend one that meets your needs.
Top Types of Haulers for Heavy Equipment
There are many options when it comes to choosing a truck for transporting heavy equipment. Here are just a few of them:
Truck
A truck – often called a tractor – is the most common vehicle used for transporting heavy equipment. It has a large box that can hold up to 10 tons and usually has four wheels, two on each side. They can be used for oversized loads.
Semi-trailer
A semi-trailer is a trailer with one wheel in front and two behind. This makes it easier to turn than a regular trailer.
A semi-trailer can carry more weight than a standard trailer because there is less friction between the tires and the road. The semi-trailer is perfect for large, heavy objects as well as multiple pieces of equipment.
Flatbed
A flatbed is a special kind of trailer where you load your equipment onto the top of the bed. You can use this method if you don't have enough space inside the trailer.
Flatbeds are often used for hauling construction materials, like lumber and steel beams.
Pintle trailer
A pintle heavy equipment transport trailer is a trailer that attaches to the back of a truck. It allows you to safely transport heavy equipment, like construction machines, over longer distances.
Pintle trailers come in various sizes and shapes. They are designed to fit over the rear axle of a truck.
Big tex trailers
A big tex trailer is a heavy-duty equipment hauler. They are long trailers that can hold up to 40 tons of cargo. They are commonly used for hauling large machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, and other heavy equipment.
Big tex trailers are typically made out of metal and have a low center of gravity.
Permits and Insurance for Transporting Heavy Equipment
Transporting construction equipment can be difficult, time-consuming, and expensive. If you are planning to move heavy machinery across state lines, it is important to prepare properly.
This includes preparing the vehicle, ensuring proper documentation, communicating with local, state, and federal officials, and ensuring everything complies with the law.
While some states require permits, others don't. Some states allow the transport of certain types of equipment while others do not. In addition, there are many different laws regarding transporting construction equipment across state lines.
For example, some states require special stickers on the truck while others do not. In addition, some states require drivers to undergo training, while others don't.
Compliance with local, state, or federal regulations and strict adherence to the rules can help prevent fines or even jail time. There are multiple ways to comply with the law, including hiring a professional moving company, renting a truck, or driving yourself.
If you plan to ship construction equipment across state lines, ensure you know the requirements before loading up your rig. You can find out about the Department of Transport's specific state requirements here.
Insurance
The state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will tell you which companies offer insurance for transporting heavy equipment. You can also check online to see if your company offers coverage. If not, you may consider buying an endorsement through your auto insurer.
Permits
Some states require permits before you can transport heavy equipment. These permits will allow you to get permission to transport heavy equipment across state lines. You should contact your local DMV office to determine if you need a permit.
Liability insurance
In many cases, you will be required to purchase liability insurance to protect others who might be injured by your equipment. Liability insurance covers damage caused by your equipment. It does not cover injuries that occur while using your equipment.
Safety Tips
When transporting heavy equipment, follow these tips for a safe and easy transport experience.
Safety gear
You must wear protective clothing and eye protection when working with heavy equipment. Always wear ear plugs or headphones to avoid hearing impairment. Wear gloves to prevent cuts and abrasions.
Choose an experienced driver
Make sure that you or your chosen driver know how to drive safely and are qualified to drive the vehicle being used. Driving a tractor-trailer requires experience and skill.
Moving equipment
You should always make sure that you have the right tools for the job. For example, if you're going to transport a container, you'll need a container dolly. But if you're going to move a tractor, you'll need a tractor dolly.
Organization
Make sure all of your equipment is labeled correctly. Also, keep track of where you put things. You never know when you might need them again.
Use a GPS system
GPS systems help you stay on course while driving. They can even advise on the best route to your destination.
Be careful around bridges
Bridges are dangerous places to drive. When crossing a bridge, slow down and watch out for traffic coming toward you. Also, be aware of height restrictions.
Don't overload your truck
Overloading your truck could cause problems. Your truck's suspension won't be able to handle the extra weight. And if your vehicle gets stuck under too much weight, it could lead to significant damage to both truck and cargo.
Plan ahead
Planning ahead helps you avoid getting lost. Before you leave home, write down the route you'll take. Then, mark important landmarks along the way. This will also allow you to retrace your steps if necessary.
Take breaks
It's easy to become tired when you're driving long distances. Schedule your route to allow short breaks every hour or two. Get some fresh air and stretch your legs.
Safety first
Always use common sense when transporting heavy equipment, especially if this type of transport job is a new endeavor.
Conclusion
Transporting heavy equipment is not a small task. As you can see, there are many factors to consider, as well as lots of research that needs to be done in order to cover all bases.
The good thing is that once you've done it, you will be more than familiar with the process, so next time you need to transport heavy equipment, you'll know exactly where to go and what to do.
Whether you use a hauling company or do it yourself, having the right information will help make the process even smoother.
Why not contact us for a free quote so we can help you make things even smoother? We're ready to help you with all your shipping needs.