Organising Transport: My Guide for Beginners

If you are a novice when it comes to arranging the transportation of people and things from one place to another, don't panic! This blog will provide you with tons of useful tips and advice which will help you to make successful arrangements. I was inspired to start this blog by Bob, the owner of a local transportation company. When I needed to arrange for a group of people to fly into the country and then for them and their belongings to be transported from Perth to Sydney, Bob was able to help. I learnt so much from him that I just have to share it here.

How To Interview Your Haulage Company

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One of your concerns when hiring a haulage company is the company's experience and professionalism. Here are a few questions that you can use to gauge a heavy haulage company's experience and professionalism. 

What Vehicle Will You Use During Transport?

The haulage company should assess your load and local laws to determine what truck they will use to transport your cargo. For instance, if the load is too wide or heavy, the company should dismantle the load and transport it in parts. If this is the case, the haulage company should have experienced engineers to dismantle and assemble the load. If possible, you should inspect the haulage truck to ascertain its mechanical condition. Alternatively, you should check the truck's service and maintenance records to ensure it will not break down during transport. 

How Long Will It Take To Move The Load? 

Most clients will want the load moved in a short amount of time. However, heavy haulage is a complicated process that requires precise planning. The company should create a timetable detailing how much time they will need to conduct preparation activities such as truck servicing, dismantling your cargo, applying for permits and route inspection. The company should also create a transport plan indicating the route they will use and the stops they will make. There are strict regulations regarding the speed of heavy haulage trucks and when they should operate. In most cases, the truck will travel at night at low speeds. 

What Permits Do You Need? 

Heavy haulage is a regulated industry. You will need multiple permits to transport an oversized load in Australia. For instance, you might need a permit if you will travel through urban areas. In some cases, you might need utility companies to disconnect power, detach cables or remove poles to prevent damage as you transport the oversized load. Haulage companies should also apply for a permit from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). Additional permits might also be required if you will transverse Aboriginal land.

What Safety Measures Will You Observe? 

The company should observe the following safety measures: 

  • The company should inspect the road to identify hazards such as low-lying power lines and sharp corners.
  • The load should be tightly secured. Otherwise, it could tilt or topple along the way.
  • The team should have pilot vehicles to guide the haulage truck, direct traffic and warn drivers of an oversized load.
  • The haulage truck should have two drivers to avoid accidents caused by fatigue. 

When interviewing a haulage company, inquire about the recommended haulage truck, how long they will take to transport the load, the required permits and safety measures. Contact a heavy haulage service for more information. 

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8 January 2021