GWT is the Trucking Firm To Hire for Hurricane Ian Florida Rebuild

Hurricane Ian struck southwestern Florida with the force of well over 10,000 nuclear warheads detonating over time, leaving death, displaced lives and catastrophic destruction that is unimaginable and historic. As Hurricane Ian slowly made its way across central and north Florida the destruction in the southwest became clearer and the millions of lives affected touched our hearts. Rescues are still going on.

Our team at Great Western Transportation watched the hurricane news and we knew the damage would be so enormous that the cost to clear and rebuild homes, apartment buildings, offices, stores, industry plants, marinas and boats would be in the high tens of billions and require an herculean amount of flatbed trucking and heavy hauling for the restore and rebuild.

We Bring You Flatbed, Heavy Hauling, Refrigerated Trucking to Florida

The flatbed and heavy haul trucking needs – and even the refrigerated hauling needs – are already piling up as government agencies and companies are starting to move freight and equipment into the devastated areas for the clean up process.

Then, there is the rebuild – requiring mega tons of materials to be moved into the most severely damaged counties on the west coast and further inland. The flood damage alone will see the freighting of enormous quantities of building materials and refurnishing so that lives can be rebuilt.

We’re now ready to work closely with you to efficiently, smoothly and safely get your materials or equipment needs moved to where they need to go in Florida.

Or in South and North Carolina as it may be needed.

For the best, affordable Hurricane Ian hauling, call us today.

September 29, 2022 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul

GWT Offering Great Rates In Trucking in Slowing Economy

August 2022 was an improving month for trucking in the U.S. as the economy is going through fits and starts. With September, the overall economy is slowing again and every business needing trucking is impacted by these conditions.

There was an increased tonnage of 2.8% in August in for-hire trucks, which helps offset the lesser 1.5% increase in July.

Year compared to year, the tonnage of for-hire trucking is 7.4% up – and we’re proud to be part of this growth with our highly-reputed services to clients needing freight moved smoothly, on schedule and at good prices in 2022.

We Offer Excellent Price Rates For Upcoming 2022 Months

We stay on top of the economic weather report so we can offer the best services at the best prices in all economic conditions – or societal conditions as in the case of the covid-19 pandemic.

Our management team at Great Western Transportation works hard to take advantage of slowdowns in flatbed, heavy haul and refrigerated needs by offering the best rates we can for each of our trucking clients.

Our rates are calculated by hand by an expert representative who is personally looking out for all aspects of your hauling job – from the rate price to the driver and nuanced details of the equipment.

The summer is over now, and that means retail companies are looking at fall and winter inventories that need stocking – even as far out as Christmas holiday inventory stocking. We’re here to make sure your goods go from point A to point B with unmatched smoothness and at a price that helps you make your profit in the upcoming selling seasons.

And hundreds of companies requiring immediate freight hauling from heavy machinery to cold items need to have transport management teams that they can rely on and who understand the current economic conditions.

For the best and the smartest, call us first.

September 10, 2022 | | Category: Flatbed, Heavy Haul, Refrigerated Trucking

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