As a highway commuter you may have observed a procession of safety vehicles guiding and following a flatbed transport hauling giant industrial equipment and thought, ‘well, that looks like it took some planning. As a shipper, a truck driver, or a 3PL provider, you can certainly confirm that, yes, organizing the transport of such giant loads requires the expertise of a company well versed in the nuances of planning heavy equipment shipping.
Safety First Is The Goal Of Heavy Haul Carriers Ontario
Oversized load trucking companies have a difficult task. They have to facilitate the transportation of large, heavy, valuable, freight that could include transporting on streets and highways shared with commuters. That means any shipper or 3PL provider must ensure heavy equipment shipping is done in the safest possible manner. Here are a few ways oversized load trucking companies ensure that happens.
- Proper mapping and planning: the dimensions of many oversized loads are what presents the greatest challenge. Oversized freight with height, length, and width exceeding basic transport standards requires strict compliance with rules and regulations governing loads on public streets. Propper mapping and planning of the route requires professional expertise. There is much to consider with these loads; routes must be chosen that allow large flatbeds to make it under bridges, around tight corners and turns, through tunnels, and along narrow roads and highway. There are many potential dangers that have to be addressed, and escort teams have to be experienced to safely guide these loads along public streets. All heavy equipment shipping has to be done in as safe a manner as possible, acknowledging all potential risks and issues. Deviating from routes could result in major delays.
- Adhering to strict schedules. That usually means travelling during the daytime to avoid risks. However, travelling during daylight hours means there is a higher volume of traffic on most roadways, so that actually increases risk. The result is 3PL providers or shippers responsibly for such loads have to be vigilant when guiding these transport vehicles from point A to point B. There is always risk involved when transporting large heavy loads, but following a schedule can help mitigate those risks.
- Ensuring staff is properly trained. Overseeing the logistics involved in arranging heavy equipment shipping is not something that can be handled off the side of desk. There is real expertise required to play for safe transport on public highways. Additionally, there has to be professional, experienced drivers behind the wheel at all times. Staff responsible for loading have to know best practices for loading and securing large loads; staff responsible for unloading have to be equally trained. Knowing all the current regulations governing heavy equipment is critical to safe execution.
For Safe Shipping Contact NATS Canada
Safety is always of paramount importance. You can facilitate safe heavy equipment shipping through oversized load trucking companies by working with our team at NATS Canada. We have the experience to coordinate all aspects of your requirements, from administration and compliance to actual execution.
