You have probably seen road trains and self-propelled modular transporters moving oversized loads such as houses, turbines, boats, or rigs. Heavy haulage could seem like an easy task. However, this is not always the case. Below is an excerpt discussing what it takes to move an oversized load. 

Government Permits

State governments and agencies regulate heavy haulage in Australia. Typically, you will need an Oversize Overmass (OSOM) licence to transport your cargo. Besides, the pilot vehicles will also need a permit to ensure that they meet the minimum requirements. An interstate permit is required when crossing state boundaries. You will need an approval letter from the Rail Infrastructure Manager (RIM) if the haulage truck crosses a railway line. Additionally, you are required to contact local police when passing through urban areas. They will redirect traffic to ensure the oversized load does not cause snarl-ups. 

Choosing A Route

Heavy haulage trucks can only use specified highways. Remember, the truck weighs hundreds of tons and could therefore damage some roads. Choosing a suitable route can be a nerve-wracking experience. The haulage company considers the following: 

1. Is the road wide enough to ensure oncoming traffic can pass the haulage truck without having to veer off the road?
2. Does the route have hazards such as low lying bridges, electrical cables, and streetlights? Other hazards could include sharp corners, slippery roads, steep inclines, and dirt roads.
3. For long-distance haulage, the team will assess the availability of appropriate stopover points.
4. Does the route have secondary routes? They ensure the haulage truck does not have to pass through busy urban areas. 

Safety Considerations 

Safety is an essential consideration when transporting oversized loads. The team assesses the cargo to determine how to load and secure it onto the trailer. In most cases, the team will need plant equipment such as cranes and forklifts to load and offload the cargo. Straps and chains will keep the load stable during transport. Pilot or escort vehicles are vehicles that warn other road users of a heavy haulage truck. The pilot drivers inform the truck driver of changing road conditions. For instance, they could ask the convoy to stop to ease traffic. The haulage team also consists of medics, engineers and mechanics to respond to injuries and accidents along the road. 

Transport Plan

The haulage team prepares a transport plan detailing when the voyage commences, the routes to use, the haulage truck's speed and the stopovers to make. The plan also indicates contact persons such as the local police, ambulance services and the clients. 

When planning heavy haulage, secure haulage permits, choose an appropriate route, create a transport plan and observe the recommended safety tips. 

For mroe informaiton, contact a heavy haulage service.