Shipping the hardware needed for mining, farming and construction can be a major issue for these industries. The massive machines needed are often very heavy and extremely valuable, so the issue of transporting them must be taken into consideration whenever buying, selling or moving theequipment.
Load Specifications
Industrial machinery can be extremely large and irregularly shaped so it is important to include dimensions in the shipping listing. Different types of equipment are better suited for a flatbed, a standard trailer, a custom trailer or to be towed, so accurate specifications are essential for safe road transport.
It is also important to know the specs when shipping overseas. The roll-on/roll-off method is the most popular way to ship large machinery overseas and calls for the vehicle to be driven on and off the ship using a ramp. The flat rack container is another way to transport machinery over water. In this method machines are loaded into large racks, each with the capacity of 88,000 pounds, which are then lifted on to the cargo vessel.
Selecting a Carrier
Once accurate specifications are collected for a shipment it is time to select a carrier. Due to the large values and level of difficulty involved in hauling industrial equipment, it is best to go with a company and driver with experience. Enlisting the help of a shipping broker can relieve some of the pressures of selecting a company, while working with an independent owner/operator can make the process a bit more personal. This decision should be made in accordance with what feels most comfortable.
Prepping the Equipment
Before the moving day arrives it is important to make sure the equipment is prepared for transport. Start by consulting the owner’s manual, which should contain useful information. This will probably include, but is not limited to:
· Draining fluids
· Disconnecting batteries
· Securing loose parts
It is also important to prepare the machinery for any possible weather conditions in order to avoid damage. This can involve:
· Protecting vulnerable areas from rain damage
· Preventing fluids from freezing in the lines during winter
· Taking all necessary precautions to avoid overheating while in tow.
Once all of the necessary steps have been taken, as directed by the manual, consult with the transport company to see if there are any otherprotocols to follow. Ask about special permits that may be needed for transporting oversized loads.
Insurance
Insurance is the final issue to consider when shipping heavy equipment. While all carriers are required to have minimum liability and cargo insurance, it is important to research the specific policy to determine what damages are covered and if the minimum is sufficient for this load. If it is determined that additional insurance is needed for adequate coverage, ask the carrier what the options are. Additional coverage may be provided by the carrier for a fee or a third party insurer can be contacted. Another option to consider is to contact the company who handles the equipment’s normal insurance. It is possible that they offer shipping coverage, which may turn out to be the best option.
The vast majority of heavy equipment moves are successful and accident free. However, in the event that an accident occurs and the item arrives damaged, be sure to note this on the “Bill of Lading” and have the delivery person sign it. Contact the shipping company and insurer as soon as possible and there should be no problem resolving the issue. If there are problems collecting, a report should be filed with the Better Business Bureau and the Department of Transportation.
