Crane Transport

Crane Handling: 5 Factors to Choose a Reliable Company

If you're planning to move your crane from one location to another, several factors must be considered.

Moving these massive structures, weighing more than 500 tons, is no small feat.

It’s a time-consuming and challenging process that involves equipment and skilled professionals like engineers, drivers, logistics specialists, legal advisors, and more.

Moreover, the cost of relocating a crane can be hefty, and mishandling the operation could lead to significant financial loss and damage.

However, with the right strategies and effective planning, you can successfully relocate your equipment, whether from a manufacturing facility to a job site or any other location.

In this article, we’ll cover the fundamentals of crane logistics and provide you with a guide to clear any doubts. So, make sure to read on.

Heavy Lifter Relocation: A Quick Overview

Relocating large equipment, whether domestically or internationally, is called crane handling.

Transporting cranes is a much more specialized task than moving typical goods, requiring expert tools, a skilled workforce, and modern technology to get the job done right.

These machines lift and move heavy materials at construction sites, but ensuring their safe transit and avoiding damage to buildings, roads, or other structures is no simple task.

How Can Massive Machinery Be Moved to Construction Sites?

There are various types of cranes, each with specific handling requirements depending on size, length, and purpose. Let's discuss a few methods here!

The most common way to move smaller cranes is by driving them directly to the site, which requires a permit.

Another option is using heavy-duty trucks. Although driving the machine is preferred, transporting it via truck is often the safer choice because it offers:

• Strong physical safety with reliable chains and straps
• Less risk of damage compared to driving the crane itself
• Greater stability on hills, tight turns, and in traffic.

Tower cranes, for example, are assembled on-site and are designed to lift large materials like concrete or steel beams.

Why is lifting machine logistics So challenging? What should you expect?

As mentioned, relocating large machinery has unique challenges due to its weight and size. Here are some obstacles you may encounter:

Moving Heavy Equipment Takes Time

Transporting large machinery requires drivers to travel at slow speeds, not just to protect surrounding structures but also due to legal restrictions.

Even when using trucks, the speed and timeline of the move depend on the distance and regulations.

Opting for a professional company with experienced drivers and optimized routes can help save time.

Securing the Equipment with Proper Tools

Whether the machine is driven or moved by truck, heavy-duty chains, locks, and other safety measures are essential.

Seeking professional assistance ensures the equipment is securely fastened, minimizing risk during the process.

Managing Routes, Traffic, and Obstacles

Moving large machinery in an urban area can be tricky due to traffic, road conditions, and nearby buildings.

Carefully planning the route and timing and considering alternative paths in case of unexpected delays will help the operation run smoothly.

How Much Does It Cost to Move Heavy Machinery: A Financial Breakdown

Relocating a crane isn't as simple as scheduling a day, contacting a driver, and expecting it to arrive at the destination within a few hours. It requires thorough planning, strategic execution, legal permits, and professional expertise.

When organizing this type of operation, you must consider every detail because a single mistake can result in significant financial or physical damage.

Several factors can push the cost of moving these massive machines over budget. The expense often depends on the distance to the destination.

The farther you need to move the equipment, the more resources are required, driving up costs.

Other factors that can increase expenses include:

• Specialized equipment to secure the machinery
• Fees for certified and experienced drivers
• Heavy-duty trucks and trailers for moving parts
• Additional resources and advanced technology

Additionally, transporting larger machinery requires more personnel, such as engineers and specialized experts, to handle loading and unloading.

For international shipments, you may face extra fees, especially if the crane needs to be disassembled for transport across multiple cargo ships.

In short, the cost of moving your equipment depends on its size, weight, destination, required resources, and deadline. The more assets you need, the higher the overall charges.

Why Hire Professionals for Equipment Hauling?

If you think you can handle finding an experienced driver, a team of engineers, trucks, and permits on your own, you may be mistaken. Even if you manage to gather all these resources, the process can become quite costly.

Hiring a professional company to handle the job is often a more economical and efficient choice. The advantages include:

• A team of expert drivers
• Well-planned strategies
• Access to heavy machinery
• Route planning and alternatives
• Cost savings compared to a DIY approach
• Time and effort savings
• Better management of the entire process
• Clear communication and understanding

Working with an experienced company will give you access to the latest tools and technology, helping to save both time and money.

How to Choose the Right Company for Machinery Moving

Relocating large equipment is a complex, time-consuming process that requires careful planning. Without expert assistance, the potential for costly damage is high, which is why hiring a specialized company is essential.

Professionals can provide an accurate estimate and offer advanced strategies, technology, and a skilled workforce, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Wondering how to find the best company for the job? Here are some factors to consider:

Cost-Effective Services

Although moving cranes can be expensive, you can save money by comparing quotes from multiple companies. Share your budget and the specifics of the operation, including equipment size, destination, and other relevant details.

After receiving an estimated price based on your requirements, compare quotes and discuss factors like equipment, routes, and timelines to stay within your budget.

Experience in the Industry

Trust comes with experience. The more experience a company has in moving heavy machinery, the more reliable and efficient their services will be.

Research the top companies in your area, keeping budget considerations in mind. The most reputable companies may charge more, but going too cheap could compromise quality. Aim for an experienced provider with a proven track record that fits your budget.

Certified Drivers for Heavy Machinery

Qualified drivers are crucial when moving heavy machinery. Whether driving the equipment directly to the site or transporting it on trucks, the drivers must be skilled enough to handle the process smoothly.

Professional drivers can prevent damage to machinery and minimize risks to surrounding buildings, roads, and traffic. Ensure your chosen company has certified and experienced drivers, as they can solve the majority of the logistical challenges.

Access to Strategic Planning and Advanced Technology

Moving large-scale equipment isn’t as simple as putting a regular driver behind the wheel or loading parts onto a truck and sending them off. It involves much more than that. A company that offers thorough planning, route analysis, traffic management, and alternative paths while utilizing top-tier tools such as chains, locks, and heavy-duty tapes will be well worth the investment.

Legal Documentation and Permits

Relocating heavy machinery is far more complex than delivering simple items like paint and canvases. These machines are among the most challenging to move, even within city limits. Before any vehicle can hit the road, permits from government authorities, complete documentation, and legal compliance are required. Ensure your chosen company handles these aspects to avoid any legal complications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, moving heavy equipment is far from easy or inexpensive. Transporting such massive machinery can be time-consuming and costly, running into thousands of dollars. However, with well-planned strategies and a skilled team, this complex operation can be streamlined into an efficient and hassle-free delivery.