What It Takes To Execute Heavy Haulage
Although heavy haulage truck drivers enjoy long trips on the open roads, the activity requires meticulous preparation and execution because they carry expensive loads. Besides, an accident involving a heavy haulage truck could be fatal. So what does it take to transport an oversized load? Below is a guide detailing how haulage crews haul oversized loads to various parts of Australia.
Once the haulage company receives an order from a client, their immediate concern is to establish the specifications of the load and its destination. Typically, the weight of the load will determine the type of truck to be used during haulage. For instance, if the load exceeds the dimensions of a standard trailer, the company could opt to use self-propelled trailers.
The company will also check the local road network to determine the best route to take. When it comes to heavy haulage, safety precedes convenience. Therefore, the haulage team could opt for a longer but safer route. Ideally, they avoid challenging road conditions like untarmacked roads, low bridges, sharp corners and steep slopes. In some cases, the company may have to communicate with utility companies if there is a significant risk that the haulage truck will damage utilities such as electrical cables and street lights.
Haulage companies are required to apply for permits to use the road network. Depending on your state, these licences will vary. The company must also notify local police departments if the haulage convoy is likely to cause traffic disruptions. The police will redirect traffic to ease haulage.
The haulage company then prepares a plan of how they will transport the load. This is a sure way to avoid surprises and accidents along the way. The plan details the following:
- When the journey will start and the speed of the haulage convoy.
- In some states, haulage trucks should use the roads between sunset and sunrise. Therefore, the haulage company must prepare stopover points for the haulage convoy.
- The number of pilot vehicles that will escort the haulage truck.
- Contact information for service providers such as fuel tankers and plant hire companies. Remember, it is challenging to fuel an oversized truck at the standard service stations. Besides, the company could need cranes and forklifts to unload the cargo.
During transport, the company makes regular assessments. For example, they will inspect the haulage truck to ensure it does not have any defects. Besides, they will inform the convoy of changing weather or traffic conditions that could affect haulage. Contact a company that provides heavy haulage services to learn more.