Heavy equipment is a general term that refers to any vehicle designed for heavy-duty work. The most common types would include earth-moving machinery and construction vehicles like forklifts or graders. Heavy equipment frequently needs to be moved between locations to meet project demands.
Just tossing a load on a truck and hitting the road isn’t enough to move heavy freight. There’s a lot to sort out first—permits for oversized and overweight loads, routes that won’t trap you under a low bridge or put you on a road too weak for the weight, and, of course, weather that loves to throw schedules off track. Every step needs careful planning.
At Carlile Transportation, we are experts at moving heavy haul equipment to and from the North Slope for the oil & gas, and mining industries here in Alaska. Let’s go over some of the basics of heavy haul trucking.
Preparing Heavy Equipment for Moving
Moving heavy equipment can turn dangerous fast if handled incorrectly. Keeping workers safe and preventing accidents starts long before the load ever moves. Taking the right steps before transport makes all the difference:
- Remove Dirt & Debris – Cleaning the equipment before loading helps prevent loose materials from breaking free during transit. Gravel, mud & other debris can cause damage or create hazards on the road.
- Lower Fuel Levels – Reducing fuel before transport decreases the chance of spills. Less weight also helps with stability & compliance with weight limits.
- Check for Repairs – Inspecting the equipment ahead of time makes a big difference. Fixing leaks, worn parts & other issues reduces the risk of breakdowns during the trip.
Clean the equipment thoroughly before loading. This helps to minimize dirt, gravel, and other debris from breaking loose during transportation.
Securing and Moving Heavy Equipment
We won’t get into the minute details of how heavy equipment should be secured to a vehicle transporting it, but there are some basic guidelines:
- Even Weight Distribution – Distribute the weight of the equipment evenly across the trailer bed to maintain stability and prevent overloading.
- Robust Securing – Utilize heavy-duty straps, chains, and binders to firmly secure the equipment to the trailer, preventing any movement during transit. Consider using specialized tie-down systems designed for heavy equipment transport.
- Engage All Locks – Engage all locks and brakes on the equipment to further ensure its immobility during transport.
- Route Planning – Plan the transport route carefully, considering factors such as bridge heights, weight limits, and road conditions. This minimizes the risk of delays and potential damage.
The Importance of Experienced Professionals
People who know exactly what they’re doing keep heavy haul transportation running. More than a standard license is needed for drivers handling overweight and oversized loads. Sharp awareness, precision driving and a deep understanding of safety regulations all factor into every trip.
Just as big a part is played by logistics specialists. Tricky permits, careful route planning, managing risks and securing loads properly all help keep operations smooth. A transportation company with well-maintained equipment, a strong safety record and a team that understands these challenges makes all the difference.
Follow Laws and State Guidelines
Every state has different protocols that must be followed when hauling heavy materials. Alaska has unique guidelines that include approved lighting plans and how to operate during the hours of darkness. For additional information, the state of Alaska provides a full guide for heavy haulers.
You Don’t Have to Do It Yourself
Carlile has the expertise, equipment, and skills to get the job done. We specialize in transporting super-long, super-wide, and super heavy materials to and from Alaska and the Lower 48. We deploy a team of heavy haul trucking and project logistics professionals to deliver superior levels of services from start to finish.
To ensure seamless and successful heavy equipment transport, Carlile offers a comprehensive suite of services:
- Customized Solutions – Personalized transportation plans to meet the requirements of each project.
- Extensive Fleet – A diverse fleet of trailers, including specialized equipment for handling oversized and overweight loads.
- Experienced Personnel – A team of highly skilled drivers and logistics experts with in-depth knowledge of heavy haul transportation.
- Comprehensive Services – On-site loading and unloading, route planning, permitting assistance, and ongoing project management.
- Competitive Pricing – Cost-effective solutions without compromising on safety or quality.
- Proven Track Record – Over 40 years of experience in providing reliable and efficient heavy haul services in Alaska.
Carlile Transportation has the right tools and vehicles for any job, no matter how large or heavy.
Contact Carlile for Heavy Haul Trucking in Alaska
The shipping experts at Carlile know how to move heavy loads whenever the situation demands it. As a leading provider of cargo transport in Alaska, Carlile Transportation gets your goods where they need to be. Contact us today.