How To Prepare Heavy Equipment for Transport

Tony Mers • April 25, 2022
How To Prepare Heavy Equipment for Transport

If you’re getting ready to move heavy machinery, you’ll need to learn how to prepare the equipment. We’ve organized a guide to show you how to prepare heavy equipment for transport. It will help ensure a smooth transportation process for whatever pieces you’re moving.

Read Instruction Manual

Read the owner’s manual regarding specific instructions for preparing your heavy equipment for transport. Check for anything that may break during transportation, and wrap it in bubble wrap or other protective materials. It’s cheaper to wrap than replace knobs, gauges, or levers.

Who Will Onboard Equipment?

Do you want the driver to also onboard your equipment, or would you feel better if one of your employees did this task? Many drivers understand how to operate machinery, as they make a living off of hauling heavy machinery. That being said, if you feel more comfortable loading the equipment yourself or having one of your employees handle the task, that’s fine. Make sure you schedule time for this.

Wash the Machine

You’ll need safety banners, signs, and lights if your heavy machinery travels as an oversized load. A heavy equipment transportation agent should provide everything you need, but it’s best to double-check with them. Debris and dirt can get in the way of tie-down points and handholds. It’s also difficult to notice any new damage while the equipment is dirty.

Other Tips

A few other tips to prepare heavy equipment for transport include:

  • Ensure the battery is disconnected. This precaution will stop the battery from draining during the transportation process. You want the machinery to start when you arrive.
  • Lock those doors. If you don’t latch a door properly, it will flap in the wind. If the lock doesn’t work, zip-tie the door to ensure it stays closed.
  • Cover up the stack. Unwanted debris could make its way into the smokes stack during transport. Prevent this from happening by covering the stack.

Contact One Call Logistics to transport your heavy equipment. Our specialists will work with you to create a unique, customized solution for all of your transport needs. No job is too big or too small!

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