Heavy Equipment Moving Advice

So, whether you are moving large machinery for construction projects, industrial machines, or farming equipment, it really is key to follow best practices to protect your valuable machinery and reduce potential risks from occurring that could have been avoided.

Consequently, we have put together some top tips to help make your equipment move successfully.

If you need help doing this the right way though, please contact us and we will be happy to help.

As part of our heavy equipment moving advice, we've made a simple checklist of things to watch out for during the moving process.

This isn't a detailed guide, nor is it meant to replace experience and training for every step but it covers the main points to a general like. It's still up to you to do a proper risk assessment if you plan to do move heavy machinery.

Think of this list as a rough guide to what's usually involved. If you're unsure about anything, our machine moving service can help and take the stress off your hands.

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is the first step to a successful move of heavy machinery.

Here, for instance, you always want to start by making a detailed list of all the equipment you need to move, noting their size, weight, load capacity, and any special requirements.

This will then help you choose the right equipment and transport vehicles needed for the job and also, set a realistic schedule and budget - thinking about any potential risks or delays especially.

Hire Experienced Professionals

Moving heavy equipment needs special skills and years of experience. As a result, if you are unsure about any of it, it is best to hire experienced professionals with a strong track record in moving heavy machinery, like us.

For instance, as a machine mover, we have handled similar types of equipment before, from small CNC machines to factory moves where hundreds of tonnes of heavy-duty industrial machinery need to be relocated using dedicated machine moving skates.

A good moving service will give you a detailed plan and a clear quote of the cost of the job required.

Conduct a Risk Assessment and Contingency Plan

Before the move, you want to carry out a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and safety risks.

This will then help you plan for any issues that might arise. Some safety tips here include it being wise to have a contingency plan in case things don't go as expected for example.

A project manager can also oversee the planning stages to ensure everything runs smoothly as well.

Obtain Necessary Permits and Documentation

Often, moving heavy loads needs necessary permits and paperwork, like oversized load permits and route plans. Getting all the right documents beforehand is important to avoid delays and fines. Work closely with your moving company, as they can help you with the permits and make sure you meet all the rules. We can handle this part for you.

Prepare Your Equipment for Transport

Before moving, it's important to get your equipment ready for transport as this allows you to safely moving heavy machinery especially.

This might mean draining fluids, disconnecting batteries, and securing any loose parts. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific requirements. Using the right tools like moving skates, machine skates, and toe jacks can make moving heavy machinery safer and easier. Also, make sure your equipment is clean to prevent damage during the move. We can help with this as part of our service.

Choose the Right Transportation Method

The type of transport vehicle you use depends on the size, weight, and type of equipment you're moving. Common options include flatbed trucks, lowboy trailers, shipping containers, and specialised heavy haul trailers. We can help you choose the best way to move your equipment, provide the right tools, and supply qualified drivers.

Secure the Heavy Equipment on the Load

Properly securing your heavy equipment is vital to prevent accidents and damage. Use heavy-duty chains, straps, and other safety features to fasten the equipment to the transport vehicle. Make sure the load is balanced and double-check all connections before pick-up. We handle this part during any move with us.

Prioritise Safety

Safety should be a priority throughout the moving process. Ensure your team follows proper lifting techniques and uses personal protective equipment. Be aware of potential hazards like blind spots and heavy lifting risks. Using clear hand signals can improve communication. Always follow safety precautions. If you're using shipping containers for transport, ensure they are suitable for heavy loads and have the necessary safety features. We take care of health and safety measures in our services.

Inspect Equipment Upon Arrival

Once your equipment reaches the new location, inspect it for any damage or wear that might have happened during transport. Address any issues right away to reduce downtime and ensure the machinery is safe to use. This is part of our standard process.

Heavy Equipment Moving Advice Overall

Overall, moving heavy equipment is a complex task that needs careful planning and execution. Remember to plan ahead, hire experienced professionals, conduct a risk assessment, obtain necessary permits, prepare your equipment, choose the right transport method, secure the load, prioritise safety, and inspect your equipment at the new facility. With attention to detail, you'll ensure a successful move. Whether you're planning a factory relocation or moving equipment to a new facility, our team has years of experience to ensure a smooth transition. If you're unsure about any step, we're here to help and can handle everything for you, so you don't have to worry.

If you'd like to learn more about machines, you can visit this Wikipedia page.