When it comes to shipping heavy machinery, proper packing and crating is essential to ensure the safe transportation of valuable assets. As we all know, cutting corners can lead to significant financial consequences, as loss, damage, or delays may not be easily resolved by ordering replacements.
In this article, we’ll explore the considerations and steps involved in getting the packing and crating of heavy machinery right.
How do you Pack Heavy Machinery?
Before diving into the packing and crating process, it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions. Doing so will help you assess the feasibility and requirements of shipping your machinery effectively.
Can the item be disassembled into parts?
One crucial consideration is whether your machinery can be disassembled into smaller components for shipping. Disassembly may make sense in some cases to facilitate transportation and reduce the overall size and weight of the shipment. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of disassembly for each specific item.
Do you need professional assistance for disassembly and reassembly?
If disassembly and reassembly are necessary, determine whether you require moving professionals to handle these tasks. Complex machinery may require skilled personnel at the destination site to ensure proper reassembly and functionality.
Does the item tolerate external exposure?
Consider whether your machinery can be exposed to the elements during transportation. If the item cannot or should not be exposed, it must be enclosed, crated, and wrapped to protect it from any potential damage. 3D barrier bags are an effective and efficient way of packaging machinery that are moisture sensitive and susceptible to corrosion. These can be custom made to any size.
Are the item’s dimensions considered oversized?
It’s important to determine whether your machinery’s dimensions classify it as an oversized load. Oversized items may have special requirements during transport and at the destination, such as special scheduling and the need for an escort when transported over the road.
Key Steps When Planning and Preparing for a Heavy Machinery Move
As experts in moving and logistics solutions, we often get asked questions such as “What type of container is suitable for transport of heavy machinery?” and “What is crating in logistics?”
What we tell all our customers is that, above all else, efficient planning and preparation is key to a successful heavy machinery project. Once you have chosen a moving partner, it’s crucial to work closely with them to develop a detailed shipping strategy. Here are some important steps to consider:
Step 1: Gather a team of experts
Assemble a team within your organisation that understands the machinery best. This team can provide valuable insights and answer crucial questions about the project.
Step 2: Assess safety requirements
Determine if there are any specific safety measures that need to be taken before the move commences. This may include removing batteries, draining fluids, or securing loose components.
Step 3: Evaluate packaging needs
Decide whether the machinery needs to be transported in a closed container or if it can withstand exposure to the elements during transportation.
Step 4: Consider modifications at the destination site
Evaluate whether any modifications are required at the site where the machinery will be installed or stored. This may involve removing doors or sections of walls to accommodate the machinery’s size.
Step 5: Determine the timeline
Consider how much time is needed to make the machinery operational at the destination site. This information will help you plan the move’s timeline accordingly.
Step 6: Determine the weight and dimensions
Accurately measure and record the weight and dimensions of the machinery. This will help to ensure proper transportation planning and compliance with any oversize load regulations.
Step 7: Communicate special requirements
Inform your moving partner of any special requirements or recommendations provided by the machinery’s manufacturer to ensure proper handling and packaging.
Step 8: Monitor the weather forecast
The weather can be unpredictable, so keep a close eye on the forecast as the move date nears. Inclement weather conditions can affect travel conditions and may require adjustments to the schedule.
By following these steps and working closely with your chosen moving partner, you can ensure a smooth and successful heavy equipment move.
H2: Review Rules and Regulations for Heavy Equipment Shipping
Shipping heavy equipment and machinery involves navigating various health and safety rules and regulations. Familiarising yourself with these laws is crucial to ensure compliance and the safe transportation of your assets.
In Ireland, for instance, Section 8 of the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act requires employers to “ensure that machinery is designed, provided and maintained so as to be safe and without risk to health. The use of any machinery should be covered by a risk assessment in accordance with section 19 of this Act.”
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H2: Expert Machinery Moving Services with Cronin Group
Moving heavy machinery? Need an expert to help with the packing and crating process? At Cronin Group, we’re well experienced in helping customers complete a broad range of machinery moves. So, no matter how big or small your machinery move is, we can help.
Speak to our Machinery Moving team today.