Moving heavy machinery becomes a necessity during the different stages of a project. Heavy machinery may have to be moved at the initial stage of a project, midway or towards the end.
Moving machinery may be required when relocating or starting a new project or when expanding construction operations. Upgrading equipment also requires the same. Since moving could be a dangerous and complex process, it is essential to ensure proper planning and handling to avoid any accidents or damage to equipment.
Here are some important steps that will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of the moving process and ensure a smooth relocation without any damage.
Make a pre-move assessment
This requires carrying out a thorough assessment of the heavy machinery that needs to be moved. Evaluate its dimensions and weight to conduct disassembly of the equipment if required. At this stage, all potential hazards that may arise must be identified. These include hazards to fluids, delicate parts, and electric connections.
Devise a relocation plan
Making a plan that outlines the resources required and their responsibilities is essential. The timeframe must also be kept in mind. The best method of transportation needs to be decided based on factors, such as weight and distance of relocation. You may also require necessary permits to move heavy machinery.
Let professionals move the equipment
Hiring experienced professionals to transport heavy machinery is always a good idea. Hiring professionals after checking references and certifications means you leave the moving process in the hands of experts who have the skills, equipment, and insurance required to ensure smooth moving.
Disassembly and preparing for the move
Disassembling the machinery must be undertaken based on the manufacturer’s guidelines and the recommended best practices. All important connections, such as hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic ones must be safely disconnected and secured.
Leakages of the fluid must be avoided by sealing fluid lines or properly capping them. All detachable components must be removed safely and packed. The same applies to fragile parts and other accessories.
Ensure safe rigging and packaging with necessary lifting equipment
All the necessary and appropriate lifting equipment must be utilized to lift and position the heavy machinery safely. The lifting capacity of the lifting equipment being used must be greater than the weight of the heavy machinery being moved.
The lifting equipment could be a forklift, crane, or hoist. Rigging materials used must have the strength to ensure safe transport. In addition, appropriate straps, chains, and slings may also be required to ensure a secure movement of the machinery during the relocation process.
At times, it may become necessary to create custom packaging. This is essential to protect delicate and sensitive parts of the machinery. The impact of vibrations and movement must also be minimized by utilizing effective padding materials.
The transportation process
It is a good idea to coordinate and hire professional transportation companies that oversee the transportation process. Such companies are experts and experienced in moving heavy machinery.
All you need to do is ensure that the company you hire for transportation is equipped with the appropriate equipment, vehicles, and permits to ensure safe and secure transport. A professional transportation company will secure the machinery on its transport vehicle or equipment.
They are equipped with the necessary tools, including straps, clamps, and chains. They also use any necessary additional bracing that may be required for the relocation process. Make sure that all the safety regulations and guidelines are followed in this process.
These include the requirements for securing equipment, the speed limits during the travel, and the weight restrictions while loading the equipment onto the vehicles.
Safely unloading and reassembling
Once the travel distance has been traversed, focus your attention on carefully unloading the machinery at the new site. In this regard, it is important to use the appropriate equipment and techniques.
Another important point to consider is ensuring the leveling of the surface for safe reassembly. After that, you may reconnect the hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical connections based on the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Carry out inspection and testing
It is also advised to perform the necessary testing and inspections after unloading and disassembling to ensure all machinery is fully functional. Inspection is also necessary to detect and ensure no damage has been caused to the equipment.
Any issues that may have arisen due to the moving process need to be identified and resolved. Addressing all concerns immediately is important to avoid any delay or increase in costs.
Last Word
The above-mentioned steps are only a general overview of how to ensure the safe movement of heavy machinery. The specific requirements for moving heavy machinery will vary due to different factors, such as the type of equipment and its regulations and manufacturer’s guidelines.
Ensuring the smooth and safe moving of your heavy machinery need not be a complicated process if you hire the right moving company, such as MyEquipment.
