Here’s The Process When Transporting Equipment Bought at an Auction

You’ve landed a great deal on some equipment at an auction. Congratulations. But now you have to get the equipment to your location. The process can be daunting without careful planning, expert advice, and the right equipment. Here’s what you need to know to get your purchase from the auction site to your door.

Understand The Manufacturer’s Recommendations

Manufacturers usually have specific instructions on how to transport their equipment. This is especially important if the equipment is still under warranty. Make sure you understand the recommendations. Some equipment requires disassembly and special packaging, while others can be transported as-is.

Get the Right Equipment for the Job

Once you know how to transport the purchase, have the right equipment. If you’re transporting a large piece of equipment, you’ll need a truck or trailer to handle the weight and size. If you’re transporting multiple pieces of equipment, you may need a truck with a lift gate to load and unload the items.

You’ll also need straps, tarps, and other materials to secure the equipment during transport. Make sure you have everything you need before you begin loading the equipment.

Prepare the Equipment for Transport

Before loading the equipment onto the truck or trailer, prepare it as required. Some require protection from the elements on transit, while others may need to be secured in a particular position. Whatever the case, make sure you understand and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Make Sure You Have the Required Paperwork

You’ll need the required paperwork if you’re transporting the equipment across state lines. It includes a bill of sale, proof of insurance, and any other documents required by the state. Contact the DMV to find out what paperwork you need before starting the transport process, or let an expert handle it for you.

Hire Great Western Transportation

We have the experience needed to help you transport any equipment, no matter the size or weight. No job is too big or small for us. We offer fast, reliable, and safe services. Contact us today to get a quote.

July 8, 2022 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul

4 Benefits of Flatbed Trucking

Flatbed trucking is extremely important for transporting needed items and tools to workers and businesses around the country. Flatbed trucking is especially beneficial with certain types of equipment and materials that can’t otherwise be moved from location to location. For those considering the benefits of flatbed trucking, there are four good things to know.

The Essentials of Flatbed Trucking

  • Important Tools and Materials can be Transported

Many things are moved via flatbed trucks, but there are a few items that are more commonly transported than others. These include heavy machines and equipment for job sites, as well as construction materials. Indeed, flatbed trucking is one of the best ways to deliver equipment and large materials in one piece.

  • Flatbed Trucks Can be Easily Loaded 

Unlike conventional trucks, flatbed trucking takes advantage of all available space. With these trucks, items can be loaded from the sides to make the process quicker, easier, and more efficient.

  • Items can be Shielded from the Weather

Loads that are being shipped great distances are likely to encounter weather issues. Fortunately, tarping flatbed trucks allows all transported items to remain safe for long journeys. Tarping is also quick; when done right, it shouldn’t take much longer than twenty minutes.

  • Flatbed Trucks are Useful at Job Sites

For those currently working at jobs sites, flatbed trucks are invaluable. From hauling equipment for various tasks to transporting waste products and needed materials, flatbed trucks help safely conduct business and increase productivity at job sites.

While not commonly considered, flatbed trucking is important for so many aspects of modern business. Without it, people would scarcely have new buildings, jobs, or needed equipment and tools used by thousands of companies. Flatbed trucking is not only beneficial to workers and producers, but to all those who participate in the economy. For more information on trucking or our transportation services, contact us today!

June 6, 2022 | | Category: Flatbed

4 Tips for Transporting Equipment After an Auction

So you’ve won a prized piece of equipment at an auction and can save a penny or two. That’s wonderful. Now comes the hard part.

You have to think of how to transport your prized equipment to your location. While the process might seem delicate, here are things you need to understand when transporting equipment after an auction.

1. Examine the Fine Print  

After buying equipment at an auction, there are chances that you will need the services of a transporter. When sourcing for a transporter, ensure to examine the contract’s fine print before signing it.

To ensure that you are not held accountable for extra charges and costs, you should read the section on other tasks.

2. Inspect The Equipment 

Usually, pieces of equipment sell at an auction on an “as is” basis. This means that the buyer assumes all risk of ownership of the equipment they purchase. So it is always a good idea to inspect the equipment, and when available, have it inspected by a licensed professional before transporting it  to your destination.

3. Get Transportation Information 

Usually, when equipment is transported after an auction, specific information should be given to the transporter upfront to ensure successful delivery. This information includes the amount and type of equipment, a detailed list of equipment, preferred carrier and route, and delivery date.

Keep in mind that, although you will be using a transporter, you will be responsible for fetching the equipment from the auction. This means you will need to get a truck, and you might have to rent one if you don’t already have one.

4. Double Check All Paperwork 

You will be surprised at how many transport snafus happen simply because of paperwork problems. Make sure that all transport documents are in order, accurate and complete.

Transport Your Prized Equipment  Safely

While transporting equipment after an auction can be daunting, it can also be pretty straightforward. At Great Western Transportation, we provide a speedy and direct service for transporting equipment bought at an auction. Contact us today for your equipment  transportation needs.

May 10, 2022 | | Category: Heavy Haul

What You Need to Know About Flatbed Trucking

Have you ever wondered how large military artillery or massive construction pipes are transported to various destinations? Flatbed trucking is the answer to the logistical challenge of such materials and equipment. Therefore, flatbed trucking is the transportation of oversized and overweight cargo that does not need an enclosed truck or van.

This kind of trucking is highly profitable and rewarding to all parties involved, but it is also dangerous in all senses. As such, you need to have considerable expertise and experience to get involved in flatbed trucking.

Uses of Flatbed Trucking

Flatbed trucking trailers are built with solid and durable aluminum frames, and wooden floors meant for longevity. Most flatbed trailers are 53 feet long and 102 feet wide in terms of size. To carry conspicuously large cargo, these trailers are often chained together. Among the massive load that these trailers transport are:

  • Steel coils
  • Lumber
  • Mobile Homes
  • Military equipment
  • Vehicles
  • Oversized pipes

Therefore, when it comes to flatbed trucking, the bigger the cargo, the better the shipping, as nothing is too large for transport.

Safety Precautions for Flatbed Trucking Drivers

As mentioned, flatbed trucking is a dangerous affair, and it requires excellent expertise and experience. There are certain safety precautions that the Drivers for Flatbed Trucking Trailers need to keep. These are:

  1. Loading

How a flatbed trucking trailer can move depends on the loading of goods. As such, drivers need to load and balance the cargo to ensure a smooth ride accurately. Loading can be done using machines like cranes or lifts if need be or manually.

  1. Securing

Before embarking on the trip, there are strict rules on securing the cargo. These rules are stringent on tie-downs that should be used and how to properly double-check to ensure the load is secure for transportation.

  1. Tarping

This is another skill that helps secure the cargo on board for transportation. This skill should be used by those experienced at using it, since a loose tarp can be hazardous to other vehicles on the road.

For more information on Flatbed Trucking and other trucking services, visit our blog Great Western Transportation.

April 18, 2022 | | Category: Flatbed

3 Tips to Consider When Hiring Heavy Haul Trucking Company

Selecting the ideal logistics and hauling company to contract can be a hassle if you are new to heavy haul trucking. Heavy haul trucking can be an enormous challenge when transporting large indivisible machinery to multiple loads. Unfortunately, it becomes difficult and dangerous for a driver during bad weather, leading to an accident or damaged assets.

Whether you are hauling turbines, excavators, boats, timber, cranes, or mining machines, selecting the best heavy haul trucking should come first. This article goes into detail by giving you tips that will help ease selecting the best heavy haul trucking company for your assets and equipment.

1. Type of Cargo Carrier

It is crucial to consider the ideal cargo carrier when transporting heavy loads. Without the appropriate equipment and tools, one can never succeed in carrying oversized cargo. There are several types of cargo carriers to choose from, including Curtain side, Extendable flatbed, Refrigerated, gooseneck, lowboy, drop deck, dry van, Flatbeds, and larger trailers of 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 13, and 20 axles. So, when selecting the ideal company, ensure they have the ideal cargo carrier for your equipment.

2. Trip Planning

Planning a trip is one of the essential tips of heavy haul trucking. It ensures timely delivery and easy trucking of your load. Always ensure that the company offers tracking and route studying to deliver safely on time. Keep in mind that a successful drop depends on preparedness and readiness.

Ensure that the company uses the latest technology in identifying traffic updates like construction projects or weather hazards on your route during the day of the trip. Use GPS technology to observe traffic on road and route conditions.

3. Understands the Special Safety Markings Need

Transportation of oversized loads is a big concern to commuters and drivers’ safety due to its danger. Heavy haul trucking loads must follow specific operational procedures to maintain road safety and minimize risk during operations.

To signal and alert drivers on the road and general road users. The logistics company should use unique markings applicable for oversized hauling. A distinctive standard mark such as a large burner with a yellow and reflective background should be visible to other drivers.

Conclusion

Transporting this heavy load comes with rewards and risks for a company and a driver. And when selecting the ideal company, consider the above tips.

Are you planning to move or haul a heavy load? Great Western Transportation offers you quality guaranteed trucking services of oversized equipment across the US and Canada. We have the best hauling trucks to ensure timely deliveries. Contact us today for more information.

April 5, 2022 | | Category: Heavy Haul

Heavy Haul Trucking FAQs

Transporting oversized loads like industrial machinery can be logistically challenging if you don’t have the idea and experience of transporting them. These types of loads require special handling, special equipment, optimized routing, and permits from the relevant government authorities. Without these requirements, heavy loads can compromise the safety of truckers and other roads users.

In this article, we look at the common frequently asked questions about heavy haul trucking.

1.      What is Heavy Haul Trucking?

There are load sizes that are considered normal in the United States and Canada. Any item that exceeds the typical dimension or weight is considered a heavy load and requires special trucking.

A heavy load exceeds the following:

  • Width 8.6 ft.
  • Height 13.6 ft.
  • Length 48-53 ft., and
  • Gross weight 80,000 lbs.

However, the federal government restricts weight depending on the type of axle you are using. Here is the axle type and the maximum weight they may carry:

  • Steer axles – 12,000 lbs
  • Single axles -20,000
  • Drive axles – 34,000
  • Tandem axles – 34,000

2.      What Permits Do I Require for Heavy Hauling?

You require the appropriate documentation and permits for heavy haul trucking before every shipment. But these regulations vary. You might be required to get city, county, municipal, or special permits for some type of shipment. The permit outlines the time you are allowed to transport the heavy load and details about the operating hours.

3.      What Else Do I Require to Transport a Heavy Load?

Trucks hauling heavy freight must be well-marked with explicitly visible signage. You might also require “oversized load” banners, safety flags, lights, and pilot/escort cars to clear the road. These requirements vary among states.

4.      Where Can I Transport Heavy Haul, and What Are the Restrictions?

There are no restrictions. You can haul heavy loads through the United States, Canada, and Mexico. But you or your truck drivers must be over 23 years and have the required driver’s license.

Work With the Best

You need a reliable freighting company to ship your industrial machinery, building supplies, pre-built house, or any heavy load. Great Western Transportation is your ultimate transportation services company across the United States and Canada. We ensure that your item arrives at your destination with minimum glitches and within the given time frame.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us today for all your heavy truck hauling needs across the United States and Canada.

March 17, 2022 | | Category: Heavy Haul

Flatbeds: What You Need To Think About

  • If you need transport for something oversized, heavy or bulky, your best choice is to use a flatbed trailer.  Along with that decision comes a whole slew of worries.  There are many factors of trucking that need to be taken into consideration.  What kind of flatbed trailer will you need (there are several options) and how will you get your shipment loaded?  What about weather worries and securement?  Let Great Western Transportation show you how we can make shipments go from perplexing to peaceful.

Trailer Selection

A flatbed is a type of trailer, but did you know there are many different kinds of flatbeds?  Depending on what you need to haul, some flatbeds are better suited for a particular job more so than others.  RGNs, stretch trailers and step decks are just some of the types of flatbed trailers that we work with.  Let our transportation experts help you decide which flatbed trailer is perfect for your needs.

Loading

Flatbed trailers are perfect for loading and unloading as well.  Because the sides are open on flatbeds, they can be loaded on the sides or the back of the trailer and use of a loading dock isn’t necessary.  The fact that you can use forklifts or cranes to load a flatbed, along with the ability to place the cargo easily so that you can have a balanced load, make this a winning way to ship your freight.

Weather

Some shipments will be fine if exposed to the elements, but every case is not the same.  When you have a consultation with Great Western Transportation, we can help you decide what needs you have for the freight you are moving.  If your load needs protection, we will positively make sure that the right sized tarps and tie downs will be used, ensuring that it gets there safely.

Securement

Did you know that flatbed loads can shift while being transported?  If this happens, the weight can be distributed unevenly, causing a real danger.  Our large network of professionals will make sure that this is not another worry on your list.  Freight will be secured according to the Department of Transportation standards.  The specialists in our network will be checking the load and its securement at every checkpoint and stop along their route.

There are many factors that play into the shipping needs you have.  Ultimately, you want your cargo to get to its destination safely and securely.  Great Western Transportation can do that, making sure that we fulfill all of your logistics needs.  Please contact us with any questions or comments that you may have. We are always ready to help.

February 17, 2022 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul

Why Choose Our Flatbed Trucking Services

As a transportation service provider, our focus with flatbed trucking at Great Western Transportation is meeting the needs of our customers. Shipping demands are heavy and timely for our clients, and we must exceed them. This is why our flatbed trucking services fulfill most of what our customers need for shipping freight loads. Here are three reasons why you should choose our flatbed services.

Construction Equipment Heavy Hauling

When dealing with a construction site, equipment hauling is a huge task. Tractors, dozers, cranes, and machinery must be moved with extreme care. Transportation services at GWT ensure the process goes seamlessly. Our company procures services for heavy duty flatbed hauls involving construction equipment in work zones and high traffic areas.

Side Loading Capabilities with Flatbed Trucking

A major benefit of choosing flatbed trucking services is the side loading capability of these trailers. A flatbed trailer is completely open around all sides, unlike a dry van or refrigerated trailer. Also, while freight can be loaded from the side, Conestoga flatbed trailers have removable sides. This allows for easy loading along with complete enclosure of freight.

Securing Freight in All Weather Conditions

This brings up the next reason why you should choose our flatbed trucking services. Along with being able to load from the side, flatbed trailers can easily be covered with a tarp. A tarpaulin cover, better known as a tarp, is a waterproof blue sheet of heavy duty material. It is made to secure freight loads against weather, as well as damage and theft. Tarping and strapping loads is also required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for most flatbed hauls.

Contact GTW for Flatbed LTL and Full Truckloads

Whether you need to transport flatbed LTL hauls or full truckloads, Great Western Transportation has your freight covered. Contact us for a quote on services today.

December 28, 2021 | | Category: Flatbed