Blog - Great Western Transporation

Mountain Moving: Tips On Transporting Heavy Machinery

Moving heavy machinery can feel like moving mountains so we’re here to give best practices.

Equipment World provided some very useful tips on effectively and safely transporting heavy machinery. With the most common violation being failing to secure vehicle equipment, there are many other mindful tasks to complete to ensure a safe delivery of these mechanical giants.

Before Loading

Making sure the equipment is securely anchored will prevent disasters from sudden stops and high speeds turns. Some best practices to adopt include:

Check that your transport vehicle is rated to handle the heavy machinery’s gross weight
Check if a permit is needed for the heavy machinery dealing with oversize or overwidth
Make sure the weight distribution is equal on the transport vehicle and points of securement are viable
Check the tire pressure of the heavy machinery if it has properly inflated rubber tires to guarantee that tie downs will not loosen

During Loading

Making sure the operator of the transport vehicle knows how to load and unload at the final destination. Other tips during loading include:

Use attachment points that are best suited to provide a strong hold
Use chain when necessary as they are best for heavy equipment and machinery
Use some form of protection like edge protection to prevent damage to the tie downs or securement devices
Follow the equipment manufacturer’s recommended attachment points to prevent damage to the equipment, hoses, or cylinders
Wheeled vehicles need their own securement strategies like chocks, cradles, wedges, and other securement types

After Loading

After loading is complete, make sure to make a thorough inspection of all securement positions and check that the actual height and width fits with transportation standards.

Locks and restraints should be used for any equipment that has any type of hinge to prevent damage during transit.
If there are any accessories for the heavy machinery, make sure they are fastened properly or transported on another vehicle

Conclusion

Follow best practices and compliance standards will help save lives.

For transporting heavy machinery and other transporting needs, we invite you to visit us at our website!

October 18, 2016 | | Category: Heavy Haul

Why Your Construction Company Needs A Reliable Flatbed Trucking Company as a Partner

There’s nothing easy about construction, from harvesting the lumber to forging metals to the actual build, every aspect of this industry is difficult. One challenge that all construction companies face is the logistics of moving materials and equipment to job sites when they are needed. It’s a process that requires specialized flatbed trailers, trained drivers and a great deal of behind-the-scenes support. That’s why every construction company needs a reliable flatbed trucking company as a partner.

The Trailers

Flatbeds are the most versatile of all semi trailers. They can transport a huge variety of materials, including lumber, bags of cement, pre-fabricated components and heavy equipment such as backhoes and cranes. Unlike their dry van counterparts, flatbed trailers do not require any special docks for loading and unloading. In fact, these tasks can be accomplished nearly anywhere, including job sites such as residential building projects and urban building construction. Additionally, lowboy and extended trailers are available to carry very tall, or overly long materials such as roof trusses and wall sections.

The Drivers

Flatbed trucking companies employ drivers with a CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License. These individuals are highly trained in every aspect of transporting building materials and construction equipment. A reputable company will have a set of protocols drivers must follow for the proper loading and unloading of cargo to avoid damage and injury. They also adhere to federal load securement requirements and are sticklers for cargo security every step of the way. Of course, they are experts at maneuvering sometimes crowded roadways and tight inner-city streets, assuring the safety of other motorists, pedestrians and property alike.

Back-End Support

While a highly trained driver and proper equipment certainly make delivering construction materials easier, it wouldn’t be possible without support. Route planning, load management, dispatching, filing paperwork and a myriad of other tasks are left to those that work behind the scenes. These individuals act as a go-between for the shipper and receiver, while at the same time managing the drivers and fleet. Support of this kind is invaluable and assures that every load of cargo arrives in good condition, on time, no matter what it is, or where it’s going. What’s more, it allows shippers and receivers to focus on their core business, rather than worrying about logistics issues.

Your construction company specializes in a specific type of build, whether it’s commercial or residential. That gives you an edge over the competition and helps focus your attention so you continue to grow and prosper. The same holds true for flatbed trucking companies. They specialize in providing transportation services for products and materials that other types of trailers simply cannot carry. Rather than buying, operating and maintaining a fleet yourself, consider outsourcing your flatbed trucking needs to a reliable provider so you can focus on what you do best, building things.

October 13, 2016 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul

Transporting Heavy Machinery? Three Reasons To Rely On A Heavy Haul Trucking Company

The manufacturing industry relies heavily upon large equipment to produce, package, sort and manage their products. Without these vital components, they simply could not keep up with consumer demand. Likewise, construction crews need large, heavy equipment to complete building projects of all types and sizes. Logistics companies that specialize in transporting heavy machinery are often called upon to deliver these important loads for three reasons.

Specialty Equipment

Sometimes you can get away with a do-it-yourself approach, but that’s not the case when transporting heavy machinery. This kind of cargo simply cannot be transported on standard flatbed trailers, or inside of regular dry vans. Due to their weight and size, special, reinforced flatbed trailers must be used. Most only require this type of trailer occasionally, therefore, it makes no sense to buy and maintain them. A heavy haul trucking company, however, will have a variety of trailers available to suit any size load with ease. What’s more, they’ll know exactly which trailer type is best suited for the load in question.

Skilled Drivers

Heavy haul drivers are some of the most skilled professionals on the road. They go through extensive training to prepare them for the challenges they will face while transporting heavy equipment and other large loads. Their skill is not limited to maneuvering the truck and trailer through traffic, they’re also experts at loading, securing and unloading heavy loads. They are also security experts who understand the importance of protecting their cargo from theft and damage while in their care. This set of skills allows them to safely deliver their loads to manufacturing sites across the country so that products continue to be produced.

Cargo Tracking

When an integral piece of machinery is needed in a factory or other manufacturing facility, it’s generally a time-sensitive delivery. That means it has to be there within a specific time-frame or the company suffers losses due to production interruptions. Because of this, company owners and facility managers want to track this precious cargo so they can plan for its arrival so they can integrate it into their system. A reputable, experienced heavy haul trucking company will have high-tech tracking in place that allows the shipper and receiver to track the package from dock to dock. In most cases, this information is provided in real time, so decisions can be made in a pro-active, rather than a reactive manner.

If you need to ship a large, heavy piece of machinery a short distance, or across the country, be sure you know exactly what type of trailer you’ll need. Choosing a trailer that cannot support the weight, or size of your cargo is a sure recipe for disaster. If you’re not sure what type of equipment you need, contact us at Great Western Transportation. We will be happy to help you find the right trailer and driver to safely transport your equipment wherever it needs to go.

September 30, 2016 | | Category: Heavy Haul

Flatbed Trucking 101: Federal Regulations for Proper Load Securement

Flatbed trailers are used to transport a variety of cargo like building materials and heavy equipment. They offer a great deal of convenience in loading and unloading these large, often unruly items. Flatbed trucking companies must follow strict federal regulations regarding the proper securement of this type of cargo. These regulations stipulate the types of securement devices to be used, the number of devices required and their proper placement.

Types of Securement Devices

The cargo securement is accomplished by using tiedowns that attach to the body of the trailer, thus preventing the cargo from shifting during transport. Steel strapping, chains, synthetic webbing, wire ropes, cordage, chocks and wedges are all types of securement devices that are commonly used in flatbed transportation. The type of device used depends upon the weight of the cargo and the load limits of the devices. In some cases, multiple types of devices are used to assure the load is adequately secured, for example, synthetic webbing, chains and chocks would be used to hold a piece of heavy equipment on a trailer.

Number of Devices Required

Determining the number of securement devices you must use on a particular load requires two figures; the length of the cargo and its weight. Federal laws require one tiedown for every ten feet of cargo, and any fraction of that measurement requires an additional device. For example, a load that is 22 feet long would require three tie downs if it’s placed against a header board and an additional device if it’s in the center of the trailer. The total working load limit of the devices must be 50% of the total weight of the cargo. Keep in mind these are the minimum requirements, additional devices may be necessary for particularly bulky, or oddly shaped cargo.

Proper Device Placement

The final component of properly securing a load is the placement of the device on the load and attaching it to the trailer. Trailers are equipped with tiedowns that straps, chains and other devices connect to. The device attaches to the cargo and the vehicle, passed through the cargo and attached to the vehicle, or simply attached to the cargo. It is vitally important that these devices are evenly spaced across the load to prevent the load from moving. Chocks and wedges are placed under the wheels to prevent cargo from rolling, or otherwise shifting.

In addition to choosing the proper type, number and placement of devices, drivers must be diligent in their efforts to assure that the devices they use are not damaged or otherwise compromised. During transit, it is imperative that the driver inspects each device to assure it’s tightened down and connected properly. By following the federal regulations for load securement, flatbed carriers and their drivers assure that cargo travels safely to its destination and always arrives in good condition.

September 20, 2016 | | Category: Flatbed

LTL Trucking Companies Support Small and Medium Size Businesses Across Industry Lines

Owners of smaller businesses face a variety of challenges from competition, often much larger than themselves. Surviving, and thriving, despite the presence of larger companies requires a creative approach. Manufacturers, and other suppliers, that provide products and components for a limited market, for instance, look for LTL trucking companies to help solve logistics issues. These partnerships offer shippers access to a variety of fleet vehicles, flexible delivery options and access to logistics experts, solely focused on supply chain improvements.

Variety of Fleet Vehicles

Refrigerated units, dry vans, flatbeds, they are all used for LTL loads, albeit for different types of cargo. The cost of shipping is determined by the actual volume of space taken up, and split between several customers. For smaller producers, manufacturers and supplies, that means they can transport anything from frozen food, to canned goods, to large equipment and materials without incurring full-load expenses. What’s more, shippers can use a combination of vehicle types, such as reefer units and dry beds on an LTL basis, which is beneficial for growth and expansion.

LTL Trucking

Delivery Flexibility

In most cases, fully loaded trailers are bound for a specific destination, with few, if any stops along the way. Such is the case of a long-haul delivery of non-perishable food in a dry van trailer, being moved across the country. Less than load providers, however, make a variety of stops along a route determined by the shippers and customers they serve. Cargo may well be delivered in a semi-residential area, or other receiving area that does not have a loading dock, such as a small retail establishment. This flexibility allows shippers to access the smaller, local markets and also to expand into larger territories.

Singular Focus

A logistics provider has one focus, which is to provide efficiency within your supply chain. Late-model, well-maintained equipment, highly trained, safety conscious drivers, provide cargo transportation services. Warehousing specialists offer inventory tracking services, packaging and distribution expertise. Brokers have access to a huge network of carriers making them the perfect partner for those in need of freight forwarding services. For most small business owners, LTL cargo transportation is not an expertise, therefore, it’s wise to rely on someone who is.

Small businesses are truly the backbone of the economy, both locally and nationally. By bringing essential diversity into the marketplace, they give consumers more choices and offer endless employment opportunities. Those that take advantage of LTL carriers for their shipments are better able to keep up with demand, without investing in a large fleet, or hiring a logistics department. The end result is continued growth of the company, and continuing benefits to the community as well

September 14, 2016 | | Category: LTL

Load Securement Devices Required When Transporting Heavy Machinery

Transporting large, bulky equipment such as backhoes, earth movers, cranes and other construction equipment is no easy task. These loads often require special flatbed trailers called lowboys because they are so large. Due to their weight, shape and size, they also have to be properly secured to the flatbed. Federal guidelines specify the type, and number of load securement devices required when transporting heavy machinery.

Types of Securement Devices

Heavy equipment is generally secured using either chains, or webbing, or a combination of the two. Chains should be high tensile strength alloy grade 70 chain that is free from damage and defects. It’s also imperative that end fittings and securing devices such as grab hooks, load binders and cleaves are of the same tensile strength and in good condition. Web strapping, rated to handle the load’s weight can also be used. When using webbing, it’s vital that the straps are cushioned to prevent wear from rubbing on the equipment during transport. Again, end fittings and other components must be of a similar strength to ensure the load is held securely.

Number of Devices Required

The sum total working load limit of the individual chains or straps used to secure the cargo has to be at least half of the weight of the equipment. Therefore, if a load weighs a total of 50,000 pounds, and each securement device has a working load of 5,000, you simply divide the weight by two, you’ll get 25,000 pounds working load. Divide that by the capacity of each strap, in this case, 5,000 pounds, and you’ll see you need 5 devices. However, it may be necessary to add additional straps, or chains, to loads that are extremely top heavy, or over-sized. In addition, chocks and wedges should be used to prevent loads from rolling, or shifting in transit.

Inspecting Securement Devices

It’s imperative that securement devices are thoroughly inspected for any flaws, breaks or weak spots. The same attention should be paid to tie down points on the trailer as well. Before embarking on the trip, drivers must be sure that each device is secured and that the load is ready to roll. Once on the road, drivers must periodically check on the load to assure straps and chains are still secured and that the load hasn’t shifted. These checks should occur during the first 50 miles of the trip, and every 150 miles, or three hours thereafter. Drivers must also be aware of signs that the devices are loosening and are in need of tightening immediately.

Hauling heavy equipment requires a great deal of concentration and a keen understanding of the requirements for securing these huge loads. By following federal guidelines, trucking companies assure that their loads are safely transported and delivered to construction sites and manufacturing facilities all over the country. Their diligent attention to detail also keeps anyone that comes in contact with the load, such as other motorists, dock workers, etc. safe.

September 1, 2016 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul

The Importance Of Route Planning in the Heavy Haul Trucking Industry

Generally speaking, cargo is transported by trucking companies hauling dry van trailers, refrigerated trailers, and flatbeds. They can easily maneuver roadways, through heavy traffic and in inclement weather. Transporting extremely heavy, tall, or wide cargo is a much different story. Not only do these loads require specialized equipment, their routes are severely restricted. It is vitally important that heavy haul trucking companies perform thorough route planning before the haul begins.

Weight Restrictions

The Federal Highway Administration mandates the maximum weight of any vehicle using the roadways. These limits are: 80,000 pounds of gross vehicle weight, 20,000 pounds of single axle weight and no more than 34,000 pounds of tandem axle weight. In addition, weight limits for bridges and roads may be in effect for certain local jurisdictions. Seasonal conditions also come into play in some geographic regions. Loads that exceed any of these weight restrictions are subject to approval and additional permits before they can be transported.

Height Issues

On occasion, a load that exceeds the clearance requirements of bridges, overpasses and other structures must be transported. For example, an enormous crane that is needed for a major construction project in an urban environment. It may be necessary to divert traffic from the area, disconnect power lines, and clear the area of personal vehicles and pedestrians. This takes the concentrated effort and cooperation of city officials, utility companies, the police and the transportation company. However, the process must be planned well in advance to avoid any issues.

Very Wide Loads

The maximum width of a commercial motor vehicle allowed on the roadways, according to Federal law is 102 inches, or 8′ 6”. Although there are exceptions to this rule, such as emergency response vehicles and farm equipment, this pertains to all cargo containers, regardless of type. Transporting extremely wide loads that exceed these federal limits requires special permits. These are obtained through the state that the load originates from as well as states it subsequently travels through. Failure to plan ahead will result in costly delays, and potential fines.

While there are many restrictions placed on the massive loads we call heavy haul, it’s a rewarding enterprise. There’s no doubt that it’s an integral part of many industries, most notably, the construction industry. Logistics companies that specialize in heavy haul understand that compliance with regulations ensures the safety of the cargo, as well as the people and the environment it encounters.

August 24, 2016 | | Category: Heavy Haul

Three Benefits of Shipping Cargo Through a Dry Freight Trucking Company

Cargo of every type, size, shape and style is transported across the nation’s roadways every single day. These shipments contain food and beverages, consumer goods such as clothing and electronics, building materials and equipment, just to name a few. Dry freight trucking refers to the transportation of goods inside an enclosed, non-temperature controlled trailer. Their use is not restricted to a single industry, or even a few, they are a prominent and important part of nearly every supply chain.

Dry Vans vs Other Trailers

While most people know what a flatbed trailer, or a refrigerated trailer is, they may not fully understand what a dry van is, despite seeing them on the road every day. Dry vans are basically enclosed trailers that are designed to keep cargo safe from the elements, thus, their name. They also offer a high level of security, and privacy for shippers since there are no windows, and doors are kept locked during transit and storage. Dry freight trucking companies use these versatile trailers to accommodate a huge variety of products. what is less than truckload ltl

Industries Served

It’s actually quite difficult to find any industry that does not use dry freight trucking to one extent or another. Some exceptions certainly apply, such as those that transport bulk liquids and minerals. However, their use is common in industries such as retail where large amounts of inventory must be transported from warehouses to stores. They are also an important logistics solution for the food and beverage industry, construction companies and endless other industries. The truth is, without these transportation workhorses, access to goods would be heavily restricted and companies would suffer severely.

Full and LTL Capacity

One of the biggest benefits of dry freight shipping is the availability of trailers to ship full and partial loads. A full load generally will fill a 53′ trailer to capacity, or nearly to capacity. The advantage of this is that a large amount of cargo can be stacked inside and delivered in one trip. When shippers have cargo that takes up less space an LTL provider is often employed. Shippers still enjoy the same benefits as those sending full loads, namely on time deliveries and safe handling of products. However, they also realize significant savings since the costs are split between all shippers sharing the trailer.

While dry freight trucking isn’t a glamorous industry, it is an important, and integral part of most every other industry. Companies that offer this vital service work hard to maintain their vehicles in peak running condition, and train their drivers on proper handling procedures. This attention to detail and high level of expectation assures shippers that their cargo always arrives in excellent condition and on time, every time.

August 19, 2016 | | Category: LTL