Abnormal load transport refers to haulage involving large consignments that cannot be divided between vehicles.
JB Rawcliffe and Sons are specialists in the transport of abnormal loads. In this article, we explain our process when it comes to engagements of this kind.
Step 1: Discuss Requirements
Before we begin to plan the operation, we hold a discussion with the client regarding the specifics of the consignment – including its size, shape, weight, comprising materials, its complexities, its location, its destination and any further necessary information.
It is vital that we collect as much information as possible right at the start of any assignment so we know what to expect and have the capacity to plan for various scenarios.
Step 2: Plan and Prepare for Transportation
Our team of experts will then discuss the best approach to transporting the load in question.
We will consider the timings required, decide on the best vehicle for the job, assess all risks and select the correct safety equipment to protect the consignment, our workers, the public and our vehicles.
Step 3: Conduct Route Survey
After deciding on the best approach for the transportation of abnormal loads, our next step is to check the designated route in detail.
Anything from low tunnels to narrow lanes to weight limits on bridges can cause major problems when attempting to move a consignment weighing over 44,000kg or measuring over 2.9m wide.
Step 4: Notify Relevant Authorities
Depending on the route we decide to take and the vehicle we’ll be using, it may be necessary for us to seek permission from certain authorities or organisations prior to the date in question.
Those authorities may include the police, the highway authority, Network Rail or the owners of any land or structure that we may need to utilise or pass on our journey.
We’ll take care of these communications ourselves to ensure that nothing is missed and to save our clients time and stress.
Step 5: Arrange Private Escorts
This step is not always necessary, but certain loads may require a little more protection or monitoring than others. If we deem this to be the case, we will arrange for the consignment to be escorted by a security team or other experienced specialists.
Throughout the planning and execution of the transportation of abnormal loads, the team at JB Rawcliffe and Sons work hard to ensure that each consignment can be delivered to its destination on time, in perfect condition and in total safety.
We can help to transport goods or equipment of any kind, on behalf of clients from any industry. Our services are most commonly used by professionals within the following fields:
However, we are able to work with consignments from almost any existing sector.
For further information about our methods or to talk to us about an abnormal load that you’re hoping to move, simply contact our haulage team today.
Process Of Abnormal Load Transport FAQs
An abnormal load is a load that – due to its weight or dimensions – cannot be carried on a traditional goods vehicle (i.e. a lorry, pick-up truck or van). Typical examples include wind turbines, power station transformers, motorhomes and fertiliser tanks.
Such loads have to be transported using a special vehicle, which can be hired from a reputable transport company, like us at JB Rawcliffe.
A vehicle that has any of the following is classed as an abnormal load in the UK: • a weight of more than 44,000kg • an axle load of more than 10,000kg for a single non-driving axle (or 11,500kg for a single driving axle) • a width of more than 2.9 metres • a rigid length of 18.65 metres or more
The price of abnormal load transport can vary depending on your chosen transport company, the length of the journey and the cost of fuel.
Abnormal loads tend to be more expensive than other heavy haulage costs – mostly because of the restrictions involved and the need to inform the local authorities. However, with more than 45 years of industry experience, you can trust that your goods will be transported in the safest way possible when you choose JB Rawcliffe & Sons.
We use only the most reliable vehicles in our fleet to transport your abnormal load from A to B – ensuring it reaches its end destination in one piece. We also pride ourselves on offering competitive rates, allowing you to benefit from a professional service that’s tailored to your needs, without breaking the bank!
To discuss your requirements in further detail and receive an accurate estimate for abnormal load transport, give us a call on 01695 737 880.
Depending on the load you need to transport and the route it will take, you may need to give a warning to the police, highway authorities and bridge structure owners. This is to ensure the appropriate safety precautions are in place on the day of the move.
Though you should be able to notify the relevant parties about your abnormal load transport via Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL), you will need to have completed a Special Order application at least 10 weeks before your proposed plans.
If you have any questions about notifying the authorities when you’re transporting an abnormal load, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the friendly team at JB Rawcliffe. We’ll be more than happy to help!
Although not strictly necessary, movements that exceed certain dimensions and weights will benefit from an escort vehicle service. In some cases, the police force may recommend using one too.
Escorts serve as a safety check. Often brightly coloured and equipped with flashing beacons, they make other road users aware of the presence of an unusually long or wide load and ensure the vehicle can navigate the route safely.
If you’re considering a vehicle escort service for an abnormal load – either because you’ve been advised to or you want to demonstrate to the police and local authorities that you’re mitigating the risk – let the team at JB Rawcliffe help.
Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer guidance and support and can assist you with every aspect of abnormal load transport. So, why not give us a call on 01695 737 880?