Top Considerations When Planning Bulk Haulage
Posted on: 27 May 2019
Contractors often have to transport bulky goods such as bricks, conduits, reinforcing steel and plumbing pipes. In the extract below, you will learn the various considerations you should make when planning bulk haulage.
Trucks
The truck that you choose should be suitable to transport your load. For example, flat trailers are ideal in the transport of plant equipment such as excavators and bulldozers. On the other hand, a tipper is best suited for soil, sand or aggregate transport. Check the truck's carrying capacity to avoid overloading. If you intend to transport oversized loads, consider heavy haulage trucks such as self-propelled modular transporters.
Licensing requirements
Different states have varying requirements regarding bulk haulage. For example, most states require contractors to secure a permit if they intend to transport dangerous goods such as petroleum. Drivers must be qualified and licenced to drive the various kinds of trucks. Contact local police if you think that you will cause traffic disruptions. Your vehicles should have a comprehensive insurance cover.
Route
Survey the route a few hours before you commence transport. Slippery and narrow roads, sharp corners, low-lying bridges and heavy traffic may lead to accidents. Brief your drivers of the prevailing road conditions. If possible, avoid transporting the cargo in poor weather.
Driver's welfare
Driver fatigue is a major cause of road accidents. To prevent this, each truck should have two drivers if you intend to transport the cargo for long distances. Carefully plan stopovers along the route; preferably, the vehicles should stop over in areas with adequate parking and security. Remember to provide your drivers with food and accommodation.
Unloading
There are various ways to unload bulk loads. For instance, plant equipment and culverts can be offloaded through a ramp. A forklift can unload wood and packed items such as tiles. You need to allocate adequate space to offload items at the site; the trucks might require some space to turn.
Costs
Costs are a significant consideration when planning bulk haulage. Most contractors are usually torn between buying and renting the trucks. If you have a long-term project, purchasing the trucks may be a better option compared to hiring. If you do not have sufficient capital to buy the vehicles, consider taking out a loan; alternatively, work with a company that has a rent-to-purchase option. When hiring trucks, carefully evaluate the company's terms of hire, and avoid companies that have a lot of extra costs.
When planning bulk haulage, consider the trucks, licensing requirements, route, driver's welfare, unloading and the costs.
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