A Guide for the Safe Transport of Heavy Equipment
The most important job of a heavy equipment hauler is ensuring the safety of the equipment, themselves and the other drivers sharing the road during transport. The essential compliance to meet safety requirements is load securement, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Let’s get into it.
Tie-Down Types
Anyone who has done any kind of equipment transport will tell you, drivers must comply with four secure tie-down placements to ensure safe transport of heavy equipment while obeying road safety regulations as heavy-duty vehicles. There are two tie-down types that are most often utilized…rachet straps and chains.
Also known as lashings, rachet straps can securely hold different types, weights and sizes of heavy equipment on trailers with high strength and durability. Rachet straps can be used on flatbed trailers, securing tarps over intact equipment, shipping medium to heavy loads by land, air or sea and more.
Chains are utilized for securing heavy equipment during transport to prevent abrasion during shipping. Chains have a grade number, from G30 to G120, representing the lifting capability. Strength increases as the chains’ grade number gets higher. Chains are used more often than rachet straps for towing material and for securing equipment.
Best Tie-Down Techniques
It’s advisable to consult a professional before you use just any tie-down method. However, if you want to do it on your own, here are a few tips you need to keep in mind:
- Follow state and global regulations. Make sure all tools, tie-down types and safety parameters are followed to the letter.
- Utilize the proper spec tie-down materials. This decision will be based on size, weight and shipping equipment type used.
- Take the transportation method into consideration. Securing heavy equipment for over the road transport requires different methodology and strapping than if it’s to be shipped via air.
- Make sure your straps or chains adhere to load securement requirements by size and specification.
When it comes to the transport of heavy equipment, protecting the public’s safety and your significant heavy equipment investment are vital. It’s a serious job that requires knowledge and strict adherence to all safety regulations, familiarity of tie-down materials and their holding properties, proper usage of tie-down points, attachment methodology, and the use of quality-made tie-downs. The right tools, materials, and procedures along with knowledgeable personnel can set any heavy equipment owner’s mind at ease. Be diligent in following a checklist, invest in the best materials and people, and you’ll have safe and smooth heavy equipment transport every time.