How are large excavators transported?

Large excavators play a crucial role in construction sites and quarries for deep digging, material handling, and continuous earthmoving operations. However, transporting these huge machines from one location to another poses unique logistical challenges Shipping Auto. In this article, we explore how construction equipment owners and rental companies meticulously plan and execute the transportation of large excavators.

Planning the transport

The first step is determining the model of excavator that needs to be transported and measuring its dimensions – especially its length, width, and height when fitted on a trailer. Large excavators commonly range from 20 to over 50 tons. Their track widths and boom lengths could exceed sizes allowed on public roads.

Project managers need to apply for special permits from state transportation authorities in such cases. They check for restrictions on transporting oversized equipment along specific routes, bridges, and underpasses. Alternative routes are identified in advance to avoid last-minute detours Shipping Auto.

Dismantling and assembly

Next, a team of highly skilled mechanics dismantles the excavator into major components for safer transport. The cabin, boom, and tracks are detached from the undercarriage, counterweight, and working attachments. Large parts are secured individually on custom trailers using chains, straps, and tensioning devices.

Minor disassembly reduces the machine’s footprint, while major components stay intact for swift reassembly at the destination. Depending on the model, dismantling and reassembling an excavator may take 8-16 hours of labor.

Loading onto trailers

On the scheduled moving date, low-boy trailers arrive equipped with hydraulically adjustable support legs, winches, and ramps. The detached parts are carefully driven or lifted onto the trailers with mobile cranes.

Load distribution is evenly planned to balance weight across axles. Longer boom sections require special extra-wide or multi-axle trailers. Tires are deflated or wheel spacers installed for stability while in transit.

Hauling over long distances

Usually, a pilot vehicle leads the convoy to guide and warn other traffic. Additional escort vehicles may follow to prevent unauthorized tailgating. Drivers adhere to posted speed limits and exercise extra caution on turns.

Oversize signboards, lighting, and reflective strips clearly mark the trailer loads. Short breaks are scheduled every few hours to check tie-downs and re-inspect tensioning. Night travel is avoided as far as possible for safety.

Final delivery

Upon reaching the destination site, the trailers are backed into position for unloading. The detached parts are lowered to the ground using cranes or winches. Mechanics then spend 1-2 days reassembling the excavator as per manufacturer guidelines.

Detailed checklists are followed to reconnect all hydraulic lines, and electrical harnesses, and lubricate moving parts. Post-assembly inspections and operational tests ensure the excavator is ready to start work. Any transport damage is immediately addressed and repaired.

Choosing transport providers wisely

Reliable hauling companies with experience moving heavy equipment are entrusted for this responsibility. Their fleet includes special extra long and extra wide trailers certified for overweight cargo.

Drivers maintain proper licensing and undergo safety training. Carriers provide proof of adequate liability insurance, permit assistance, GPS truck monitoring, and 24/7 dispatch support. Online transport management systems track vessel locations in real-time.

Overall, transporting large excavators calls for coordination between equipment owners, rental firms, logistics providers, permit authorities, and skilled technicians. Careful planning and execution are key to delivering these multi-ton machines safely to their destinations on schedule.

Shipping Auto – Parting Words

While challenging, transporting heavy excavators across regions is critical for construction projects. Advance coordination, partial disassembly, specialized rigging, dedicated long-haul equipment, and compliance with safety protocols come together seamlessly thanks to experienced professionals. With the methods outlined above, heavy equipment regularly travels hundreds of miles to serve the evolving infrastructure landscape nationwide.