There’s no load too big or too obscure for a professional heavy haul carrier to handle.
From HAZMAT to construction materials and even huge wind turbine parts, when an item is considered special or oversized, it travels across America’s highways strapped to a flatbed truck, with a certified driver behind the wheel.
As a business owner with an oversized load that needs to be moved, you might feel nervous about how to get the job done safely.
The good news is that you can partner with a heavy haul trucking company that is experienced and equipped for the task. But how do you choose the best heavy haul carrier for your unique needs? Keep these helpful tips in mind.
The first thing you’ll want to do is to create a profile for your load, including dimensions, weight and any special requirements for shipping.
Having the necessary information ready to go not only makes your search faster, but helps you narrow down the right carrier with the equipment you need for the job.
Equipment should be the one of the top priorities when choosing a heavy haul carrier. Even if the company is top notch, if they don’t have what you need, it’s a waste of time.
For instance, if you have a ton of sand to move, but the carrier you’re chatting with doesn’t have a dump truck, that means extra research and work just to find a suitable vehicle.
Heavy haul services are highly regulated in the US, so it’s important to inquire about how prospective companies are working to meet compliance and safety regulations.
Ask about the permits they carry for different sizes/types of loads, and also for the types of equipment they are allowed to operate.
Safety should be paramount, and reputable heavy haul carriers will have extensive measures in place with PPE and knowledgeable employees who partake in regular training sessions.
If a company is beating around the bush when it comes to permits, safety procedures and insurance, take this as a red flag and move on to your next prospect.
Communication is paramount when you’re collaborating on a BIG project, like how to successfully transport a mobile home or military machinery, for example. It takes a lot of planning!
Does the company call you back within 24 hours? Do they offer multiple methods of contact? Are they courteous, thorough and informative?
Take note of these burning questions during your first consultation. If the company isn’t calling you back, you might want to look around for service elsewhere.
After all, do you want to deal with playing phone tag throughout the project? Sounds like a BIG headache!
In today’s tech-savvy world, customer reviews are gold. A company should be willing to share testimonials from past clients who were happy with their experiences, as this bolsters their reputation for integrity, expertise and success.
Usually companies will feature testimonials on their website or you can browse 3rd party review websites. Don’t be afraid to ask the carrier if they have any references, as well.
True Carriers Group is a non-asset based group of carriers that has been helping drive America’s supply chain for over 40 years. We offer a full range of logistics services, including Intermodal, Reefer, Van, Flatbed, Brokerage, LTL and Heavy Haul.
