A Guide to Heavy Haulage

There are plenty of haulage companies offering the transportation of heavy goods throughout the UK. Many use large reinforced vehicles for the carriage of bulky items, and great numbers of business owners rely upon these specialist drivers to deliver their goods quickly and safely. Workers in the heavy haulage industry can make a good living from the industry and the job can be extremely fulfilling. There are, however, plenty of challenges to be faced on a daily basis.

Different Types Of Heavy Haulage

Heavy hauliers are often required to transport fragile and valuable loads. A recent example involved the carriage of a power station transformer, which weighed a staggering 640 tonnes. A considerable amount of logistic planning was required in order to ensure the transportation process went smoothly, and there is an extensive level of technical expertise involved in projects of this scale. The technical equipment used to ensure the security and smooth transit of such heavy loads often requires special training or certification.

Establishing a Specialised Workforce

The majority of larger haulage companies consider it a priority to provide employees with comprehensive training in the art of transporting heavy loads. The drivers need to maintain full control of their vehicles, be able to adapt to varying road conditions, and understand the safest means of loading and unloading unwieldy goods. Comprehensive preparation is essential in order to avoid potential danger, considerable fines or insurance claims.

Using a Diverse Fleet Of Major Haulage Vehicles

A range of vehicles can be used in the delivery of heavy loads. As well as being suitable for the transportation of heavy and long goods, these impressive vehicles can be fitted with flat-bed trailers, trailers and heavy weight bearing wheels for everyday use. Complete vehicle customisation is sometimes undertaken, as in the case in America where a special antenna transporter was created for the successful delivery of huge radio telescope antennas. Other major projects that have needed adaptation include the transportation of timber framed houses, armoured military vehicles and oversized industrial equipment. Aeroplanes, dump trucks and articulated ore carriers have all been used to carry out major haulage tasks as well.

Employing Heavy Haulage Companies

Business owners who anticipate the need to transport heavy loads are advised to do their research before considering their options. It is best to seek the recommendation of trusted professionals, as they will have experience working on a diverse range of major projects. They will be able to provide assurances regarding the successful completion of large-scale transportation, in accordance with specific requirements. Business should be prepared to pay a premium for the specialist assistance of the major haulage companies, but it is always advisable to get a number of quotes before making the final decision.

Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry across the UK and Europe. It provides services for matching haulage companies or drivers with jobs and to buy and sell road transport and haulage work in the domestic and international markets. Over 3,000 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.