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Three Keys To Successfully Transporting Equipment Bought at an Auction

Auctions are a great place to find deals on all kinds of heavy equipment and machinery at a fraction of retail. It’s a perfect fit for small, independently owned, cash-strapped construction businesses that need additional, or updated equipment. Transporting equipment bought at an auction requires a great deal of planning and preparation. In particular, there are three important things that must be addressed; truck and trailer specs, permit requirements and route planning.

Truck and Trailer Specs

The size and type of trailer depend solely upon the type of equipment you’re moving, however, flatbed trailers are generally used for this purpose. Very large, heavy loads require reinforced trailers, specially designed for heavy-haul transportation. Another important aspect, however, is the horsepower of the truck’s engine, which powers the load down the road. It’s got to be powerful enough to move the weight of the tractor, trailer, and load with ease. Therefore, it’s vital that you know the exact dimensions (length, width, height) of your equipment, as well as the weight so it can be matched with the appropriate truck and trailer. auction-shipping-transportation

Permit Requirements

Depending upon how big the equipment is, you may be required to get special permits before you can transport it. Over-weight loads cause damage to bridges and roads, while long loads are difficult to maneuver in tight areas. Height can be an issue in areas where power lines hang low, or other obstructions are present. Therefore, it is important to get official permission before moving day. Most logistics companies will secure the proper permits, but it’s a good idea that you double-check to make sure everything is in order.

Route Planning

The objective is to move your auction find from the auction house to your warehouse, facility, or job site in the most efficient manner possible. In order for that to happen, you need a clearly defined route that minimizes disruptions for other motorists and takes the most direct path. Again, permission may need to be obtained from a city, county or other local government office in order to use certain roadways. An experienced logistics provider will have the technology and staff to create the perfect route, no matter how large the load, or difficult the circumstances are.

If you’re one of the savvy business owners who are taking advantage of those phenomenal deals found at auction houses across the country, keep in mind you’ve got to move whatever you buy. You’ll need a good, heavy-duty trailer, good-running, powerful truck and a driver. Don’t forget permits and a well-planned route. Or, you can simply outsource this task to a reputable heavy-haul trucking firm and rest assured that they will safely, efficiently, and quickly get your cargo delivered.

February 3, 2017 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul

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January 27, 2017 | | Category: General

Three Things That Make Flatbed Trucking Services Unique In The Industry

Semi trailers come in a variety of types, and sizes, from dry vans to refrigerated trucks, to tankers, and flatbeds, there’s a trailer specifically designed to carry every cargo type. There are trucking companies that specialize in hauling each kind of cargo, but flatbed trucking services, however, are in a unique position within the industry. They have a great ability to haul a huge variety of cargo types. What’s more, these trailers don’t require a special loading dock, they can be loaded and unloaded practically anywhere. They’re also the trailer of choice for heavy haul and other over-size loads.

Cargo Potential

The most obvious attribute that sets flatbed trucking companies apart from their dry van counterparts, for example, is the fact that the trailer is completely open. Walls and ceilings in a dry van restrict the amount of cargo space, limiting what they can carry. Building materials from lumber to bagged concrete mix to landscape boulders and construction equipment are commonly transported via flatbeds. A flatbed, however, can be loaded with a variety of items that are too bulky, tall, or wide to fit within an enclosed trailer.

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Flexible Loading/Unloading

Dry van trailers, refrigerated trucks and tankers all require special loading docks and equipment to safely load and unload cargo. There are many ways, however, to load cargo onto a flatbed trailer and it can be done just about anywhere. In some cases, equipment is driven onto the trailer using ramps. Other times, cranes or forklifts are used to lift cargo and place it on the trailer. The thing that truly sets a flatbed apart from other trailers though, is the fact that they can be loaded from the top, left, right, or rear with equal ease.

Over-Size Cargo

Huge excavators, cranes and earth-moving equipment are necessary for huge construction projects. Moving this massive machinery and equipment isn’t easy, in fact, it’s a complicated process that requires a great deal of planning and coordination. This begins with the specialized flatbed trailers heavy-haul companies use. They are able to withstand the rigors of transporting the largest, heaviest loads. Over-size loads need special permits, and are subject to weight and size restrictions, and must be routed accordingly. They may also require pilot cars to help them navigate the roadways to avoid traffic, infrastructure and other potential obstacles.

The unique services that flatbed trucking companies offer makes them a valuable asset to the construction industry. It’s the flatbed trailer, however, that’s the real hero. They’re the most flexible trailers in the trucking industry, capable of hauling cargo that no other trailers can. Without them, it would be impossible to transport the building materials and equipment needed to complete projects

January 27, 2017 | | Category: Flatbed

Types Of Permits Heavy Haul Trucking Companies Need When Hauling Large Loads

Whenever an extremely large load needs to be transported, you can bet that a heavy haul trucking company is enlisted to take on the job. These companies specialize in moving large pieces of equipment, massive pieces of construction material and anything else that a normal truck and trailer can’t handle. Unlike other trucking companies, however, they can’t just load and go, they need to obtain special permits, in addition to the standard requirements, before they can begin the journey.

Standard Requirements

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) requires every trucking company that is engaged in intrastate commerce be registered. They must also obtain a USDOT number which identifies them and allows governing bodies to monitor their safety records. What’s more, some states require that trucking companies obtain a state DOT number. These basic requirements pertain to all companies, regardless if they haul heavy loads, or not. heavy haul trucking

Over-Size Permits

An over-size permit is required when cargo is transported across state lines when the load exceeds the legal height, width, or length limits for each state. These permits describe the prescribed route the truck is to travel as well as areas that are to be avoided. These are one-time permits that are only issued for a short period of time, meaning a new permit must be obtained for each load of cargo that is considered over-sized. While these types of permits are issued at the state level, specific permits may also be required by county, city, or municipality.

Over-Weight Permits

Regulations regarding the maximum weight of a truck and trailer state that it cannot exceed a total of 80,000 pounds without obtaining an overweight permit. However, states do have the right to set their own limits, and often do. In order to avoid delays, fines and penalties, it’s imperative that a trucking company is aware of and follows the rules for each state they transport cargo through. What’s more, there are often weight limits on seasonal roads, bridges and sometimes even local restrictions on weight. The reason for these rules is to protect the roadways and other infrastructure from damage.

Some may think that the government, on the federal and state levels, is too involved with the trucking industry, however, there are good reasons for the rules set forth. First, and foremost, rules help keep all motorists on the nation’s roads safe. Secondly, it provides a means by which regulatory bodies can monitor the operations of companies to ensure that they do not cause excessive damage to roads, bridges, overpasses and other structures.

January 19, 2017 | | Category: Heavy Haul

Cargo Coming By Ship? Three Times That Picking Up At The Port Is A Good Idea

Importers play an important role in local, state and the federal economy alike. Everything from clothing and shoes to commodities makes its way into our ports. If you’re an importer, you are aware of the potential for a delay in delivery. When you’ve got store shelves to fill, or a manufacturing line that is awaiting parts, you simply can’t afford to be held up. If you’ve got access to the proper equipment and driver, you don’t have to wait, if you’re picking up at the port. Finally, it can reduce your overall shipping costs, making your business more profitable.

Time-Sensitive Cargo

Whether you are selling a product, or providing components, demand drives your activities. When your goods are in high demand, it’s imperative that your cargo is picked up and delivered where it’s needed as quickly as possible. Waiting for your deliveries would not only harm your revenues, it will leave your customers in a tough position. You could lose a big contract, or upset enough customers to lose traction in your market. Both of these scenarios are easily avoided by arranging for your cargo to be picked up directly from the port and delivered to your customer, or your storage facility.

No Wait Time

Generally, cargo containers are removed from the ship and picked up by carriers, intermodal providers and independent truckers. If no one is there to pick up the cargo on delivery day, it is stored at the port for a time. Once transport has been arranged, or becomes available, the cargo is moved on to its destination. Leaving cargo in port to wait in line is only for the very patient. This is especially the case for very busy ports in peak seasons. Your supply chain, however, can remain smooth and predictable, even in the most hectic situations. If your facility is within short range of the port, sending a truck and driver could shave days off the delivery schedule and help you outwit your competition.

Lowered Costs

Let’s face it, it’s not cheap to import goods into the U.S. There are a myriad of different costs that importers bear including, the product cost, shipping via vessel, storage fees at port, transportation, and the list goes on. While some costs are difficult to change as they are market driven, port storage and transportation can be managed. By reducing the amount of time a container stays at the port, overall costs are diminished. A dedicated provider agreement with a reputable logistics company helps minimize transportation costs and offers other benefits such as improved supply chain efficiency.

Whether you’re a novice, or a seasoned vet, of importation, consider the option of picking up future cargo at the port. You don’t necessarily need to own equipment, or employ drivers, that part can be outsourced. It’s likely that you’ll see an increase in your company’s profit margins by way of decreased expenses and improved procedures. In addition, you’ll garner the appreciation and loyalty of customers.

January 13, 2017 | | Category: General

Three Things Every Importer Should Know About Picking Up Cargo At The Port

Many companies import products and components into the United States every year. These importers must arrange to have their cargo transported from the port to a storage facility, processing center or retail outlet. Some own and operate their own fleet for this purpose, others outsource to a logistics company. In either instance, there are three things that every importer should know about picking up cargo at the port.

TWIC Requirements

Truck drivers, dock workers, maritime workers and anyone else that has access to secure areas of ports and vessels are required to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). This is a tamper-proof identification card that must be carried at all times. The credential holder must present the card in order to gain access. This card is only issued to U.S. Residents and certain immigrants that pass the security background check. Truck drivers who do not have, or carry, their credential card will be denied access, therefore, delaying the pickup process. $frac-tank-transport-hauling-moving$

Long Wait Times

During peak times of the day, many ships arrive in port at the same time. Their cargo must be unloaded and disbursed to the various carriers and independent trucking companies charged with picking them up. Those that are very familiar with the process understand that drivers may spend a great deal of time waiting for their cargo to be unloaded. It is unwise for an importer to expect that their cargo will be expedited, since loads are often managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, these companies should plan their ordering and delivery schedules to accommodate the variations in the amount of time it takes to have their cargo unloaded.

Port Congestion

It’s no surprise that larger ports are extremely busy places. There are a multitude of different vehicles on the property at any given time, which can lead to problems maneuvering large equipment such as semi-trucks and trailers. The seemingly simple act of hooking up to a trailer can take several minutes to accomplish. Drivers must be highly-trained in this type of activity in order to avoid accidents, which can cause extensive damage and costly delays. It’s also vitally important that they are confident in their own skills and diligent in their observations of what is going on around them.

If your company imports cargo, be well aware that drivers must have adequate credentials to access sensitive areas at ports. Also understand that there are often delays due to high volumes of traffic, which makes it more difficult to maneuver large trucks and trailers. Understanding these issues will help you to make the right decisions for yourself, your drivers and your company. Ultimately, this will improve your operations, decrease your expenses and increase your profit margins.

January 6, 2017 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul

Three Things That Are Essential To Every Heavy Haul Trucking Company

Whenever an exceptionally large piece of equipment, or a massive load of materials needs to be transported, the job is handed off to a heavy haul trucking company. They’re experts at safely, and efficiently, moving even the biggest items. It’s not something that every company can handle. In fact, heavy haul trucking companies are specialists that have a great deal of experience. That said, it would not be possible for them to accomplish these incredible feats without three essential components.

Professional Drivers

The men and women that drive for heavy haul trucking companies are some of the toughest, most highly skilled drivers on the road. They go through an extensive training program just to obtain their commercial drivers license (CDL) and then specific training on how to handle big loads. This includes learning the proper techniques for loading, securing, transporting and unloading. Without them, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to move large cranes, massive concrete components and other over-weight and over-dimension items.

The Right Equipment

While the driver is, by far, the most important aspect of heavy haul trucking, they can’t do their jobs without the right equipment. Many times, this means specially built, reinforced flatbed trailers that can withstand the strain of transporting heavy loads. However, they also need access to a variety of different securement devices, such as straps, chains, and chocks. These devices help keep the load in place so that it doesn’t shift, roll, or otherwise move during transit. They also require a variety of heavy-duty tarps to help protect cargo from the elements and to protect it against theft.

A Support Team

The best drivers, utilizing the best equipment, must have one more incredibly important tool in their arsenal; a skilled support team. While they don’t usually touch the cargo, and they certainly don’t operate the truck, without them, heavy haul trucking would be impossible. The truth is, the people that work behind the scenes to arrange for loads to be hauled, plan routes, obtain permits and escort these giant loads are priceless. They ensure that drivers get accurate direction and instructions so that every load is picked up, and delivered on time. They are also highly versed in the rules and regulations pertaining to heavy haul trucking, thus avoiding undo fees and penalties for non-compliance.

Next time you hire a heavy haul trucking company to move that piece of equipment for you, remember that they have an extremely difficult job. You can rest assured, however, that they know exactly how to handle even the toughest of loads, and that their equipment is capable of handling it. Also, keep in mind that your driver has a large network of support that helps them get the job done. Combined, these three elements ensure that every heavy load is delivered on time, in excellent condition and in a safe manner.

December 29, 2016 | | Category: Heavy Haul

Merry Christmas

The team at Great Western Transportation would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!

December 23, 2016 | | Category: General