Taylor's Transportation Blog

Planning heavy haulage for oversized loads such as houses and bridges can be a challenging task. The activity involves a lot of experts and requires multiple permits. Below is a short guide on how to successfully plan and execute heavy haulage.

Planning Phase

Your first and most important task is to understand your load. For instance, if you intend to move a house, what are its dimensions? It would be dangerous to transport cargo that is wider than the road you will use. In this case, you would need to cut the load into two or more pieces. Your next task is to determine the weight of your load. Most roads in Australia can handle massive weights. If you will go off the main highway, conduct some research to ensure that you will not damage any bridges or roads. When do you intend to transport the cargo? Check the weather forecast to avoid floods. It is especially so if you will be driving along rough roads with seasonal rivers. 

Organise a team to help you execute the move. Under the Australian law, you require pilot vehicles to warn other drivers of an incoming heavy load. You will also need a team of experienced mechanics to handle emergencies such as blown tires, leaking brakes, faulty water pumps and clogged fuel filters. Most of these problems are avoidable. As such, you should service the trucks and conduct some preventive maintenance. You will also require permits to use the road network system, cross bridges and railway lines. Notify local police if you will pass through major towns.

Execution

Some Australian states have a curfew on when you can haul oversized loads. Hauling companies are encouraged to transport the loads at night and early morning when there is minimal traffic on the roads. Preferably, you should have a reconnaissance team to inform you of changing road conditions such as an oncoming storm or a traffic snarl-up. Formulate a transport plan describing when you will commence transport, how many hours you will spend on the road and the various stops you will make. Give yourself a few hours allowance since you may have to make stops to allow other drivers to pass, inspect the load and make vehicle repairs. Besides, you will spend extra time when passing through an urban area with driving challenges such as low-lying electrical cables, street lights, sharp corners, and narrow roads.

Remember to observe safety as you transport the load. For example, you should have an emergency plan to effect in case of an accident. Besides, you may require extra trucks to tow or pull the load if the route has steep inclines.