When your job calls for transporting heavy-duty machinery like construction equipment, you need to make sure that the machinery reaches the destination in great conditions and within a feasible timeline. Choosing the right type of trailer plays a key role in transporting the hefty construction equipment safely to the venue.
There are a few factors to consider when it comes to picking the ideal camper for hauling large machines. It gets more complicated and daunting when your trailers are carrying various heavy equipment to and from the job site. To make the whole process easier, and for your convenience, this article will discuss how to pick the ideal trailer for hauling your construction equipment.
Ideal Trailers for Compact Equipment
Flatbed trailers are ideal for transporting compact or small-scale construction equipment. They are able to haul a maximum weight of 48,000 pounds. Pay attention, these campers also have height restrictions.
The cargo on a flatbed camper is usually 8 ½ feet tall and its maximum width is also 8 ½ feet. The lengths of these trucks typically range between 48 feet and 53 feet. You also need to employ a feasible method to lift your equipment into the trailer as flatbed campers cannot be lowered.
Since the flatbed campers are too high from the ground, it is better to use loading docks. A crane, forklift, or even a small team of a work crew are capable of loading your equipment onto the flatbed camper.
Flatbed trailers are best for hauling the following construction equipment:
- Small forklifts
- Small backhoe loaders
- Mini excavators
- Single-operator street sweepers
- Small skid steers
- Wheel loaders
- Walk-behind trenchers
Best Trailers for Mid-sized Equipment
Step-deck trailers and roll-off trailers can carry far heavier equipment and are more adjustable than flatbed trailers. To know insightful details about roll-off campers, click here. While flatbed trucks can normally move up to 48,000 pounds, cargo on a step-deck camper may be up to 10 feet in height and have an 8 ½ feet width. Step-decks typically have a 48-foot length, with a 37-foot well and an 11-foot deck.
Step-deck trailers include ramps that allow you to tow or drive your equipment onto the trailer. However, loading machinery with low ground clearance is challenging due to the steepness of the ramps. Step-deck trailers are ideal for carrying the following construction equipment:
- Small to mid-sized wheel loaders
- Small to mid-sized bulldozers
- Small to mid-sized backhoe loaders
- Mini excavators (easier to drive onto a step-deck trailer than boarding onto a flatbed trailer)
- Construction forklifts
- Trenchers
- Skid steers (the ones that are too tall for flatbed trailers)
Perfect Trailers for Heavy Equipment
RGN trailers, also known as detachable gooseneck campers, are less standardized than step-deck campers and are ideal for transporting freights that are tall and long.
The standard RGN can only carry 42,000 pounds, while a specialized RGN trailer can transfer freight weighing up to 150.00 pounds or more. An RGN can transport equipment up to 11 ½ feet tall and 8 ½ feet wide. The camper well is typically 29 feet long, while the biggest RGN trailers may have up to 20 axles and span over 65 feet.
The front of an RGN can be detached, letting you lower the trailer to the ground and use it as a ramp to tow or drive your equipment on board. RGN trailers are a foot and a half lower to the ground than step-deck campers, providing more clearance and convenience.
RGN trailers are the best choice for transporting heavy construction equipment:
- Backhoe loaders
- Articulated trucks
- Forklifts
- Excavators
- Graders and Scrapers
- Street sweepers
- Pipe layers
- Trenchers
Any machinery or equipment like a multi-axle trailer that is oversize can only be transported by a specialized RGN camper.
Quick Tips for Transferring Heavy Equipment Safely
When transporting heavy equipment or machinery from one location to another, it is important to operate with a safe load and secure the heavy machinery in position. By following a few basic measures, you can reduce the risks of damage during accidents, unexpected stops, and high-speed turns.
Thousands of violations regarding load fastening take place every year. One of the most important components in carrying out a heavy haul is to take account of a few checks as stated in the following:
- Strong tie-downs
- Secured vehicle equipment
- Proper heavy equipment and machine protection
- Suitable securing procedures from the front and rear portions of the vehicle
- Correct cargo, systems, and devices protection
- Immobilized equipment
Unless you secure your heavy equipment in position when driving on the road and maneuvering through varied situations such as abrupt turns and adverse road environments, you are prone to catastrophic accidents. Road safety should be highly prioritized by everyone involved. To make the whole hauling process easier, it is vital to use the correct gear. With proper planning, strategies, and execution, you can ensure a secure transfer of heavy equipment. You can use the following tips to minimize the risks and haul the equipment efficiently.
- Make the necessary preparations in advance.
- Use the right trailer for the job.
- With the correct tools, secure the load.
- Rely on drivers who have been trained and have a lot of experience.
- Obtain any necessary and authorized permits.
- Know the towing regulations in various states.
- Plan your driving route ahead of time.
Key Considerations for Selecting a Trailer
Selecting the right one is crucial when it comes to hauling construction equipment. There are several key considerations that should be taken into account before making a final decision. One of the most important factors to consider is the weight of the equipment being hauled. This will determine the weight capacity required for it, as well as the type of suspension and tires needed to support the weight.
Once you have assessed your needs, it is important to research different brands to find the one that meets your requirements. For instance, you may come across reputable brands such as BMI Trailers that offer high-quality and reliable trailers for hauling construction equipment. However, it is still essential to take into account the specific features and capabilities of it to ensure that it is the best fit for your equipment.
Final Words
Hauling heavy machinery especially construction equipment can seem quite daunting and dangerous in some cases. With the right precautions and planning, you can make sure that the expensive large machines can reach the destination safely and in great condition.
You need to consider the size and dimensions of the camper. You also need to take into account the weight load the trailer can support. It is important to know all the towing or hauling regulations in various states beforehand. Always opt for well-maintained campers operated by experienced drivers and plan the route in advance.
