As a small business, you may frequently have to move heavy equipment across multiple locations. However, it can be tricky when you have to do so across longer distances. Aside from the need to protect your equipment, you want to ensure your employees are safe. If you’re working on a major project that requires moving several components, or you want to protect your investment, below are four factors you must consider to ensure a smooth process.
- Have a route plan
Route planning is essential for a safe and smooth ride. The road ahead is filled with several obstacles, like traffic and potential bumps. Before you load the truck and get moving, ensure you’re familiar with the route, where you’ll drop off the equipment, and any road safety precautions you need to know. It’s all about ensuring that everyone’s on the same wavelength, especially if you are unfamiliar with the drop-off site. It’s worth noting that route planning isn’t just a one-time step, as you’ll need to keep an eye out for local regulations when hauling equipment. Also, keep in mind that there might be some restrictions based on your truck’s size, width, and weight.
- Find a reliable transport company
Finding a solid transport company is a big deal and is key to making sure your machines get from one point to another in one piece. Therefore, it’s best to select a credible company that is experienced in moving heavy gear. Ask for references for past jobs to confirm the company you’re considering is the real deal. Once you have the right transport team in your corner, you can relax knowing your machines are in good hands. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to move the items yourself, it’s best to get a transport vehicle and handy tools like truck ramps for smooth loading and unloading of the equipment.
- Use qualified drivers
Your drivers will play a pivotal role in heavy equipment transportation, making it essential to have a top-notch team when you’re gearing up for the big haul. These individuals need to be prepared to face the road, and that means proper training and qualifications are a must. That may not be an issue if you’re working with a reliable transportation company, as they’ll have the driver situation sorted. But if you’re handling the tasks yourself or in-house, prepare your drivers with some of the best courses available. You want drivers who know their stuff, have a knack for basic maintenance, and have a solid track record of driving trailers or handling equipment moving.
- Understand the associated expenses
When you’re planning the move, you need to have a budget. Knowing how much you have and are willing to spend helps you figure out which moving strategy suits your style. But it would be prudent to toss in some extra bucks in your budget. That’s because life’s full of surprises, and you want to be ready for anything, especially those unexpected expenses. So, grab your pen and calculator, draw your budget, and make your heavy equipment move a smooth sail.
