Tips for First-Time Heavy Hauling in Winter

Transporting oversized machinery under normal weather conditions is tricky enough. However, if you have never transported heavy machinery in winter before, then you are in for a real challenge. The combination of heavy loads, slippery roads, detours and road closures create uncertainties. Consequently, it increases the possibility of accidents and breakdowns during transportation. Therefore, it is vital to make adequate preparations before you embark on a long heavy machinery haul. If it is your first winter trip, you need to pay special attention to specific areas that you would typically brush aside. This article highlights winter heavy hauling tips that will ensure that you reach your destination safely. 

Hand Check Truck Parts -- Pre-trip inspection is mandatory in the heavy haulage industry. It does not matter whether it is winter or summer; all drivers must inspect their rig a day before the trip. However, how you examine a truck in summer is different from how you check it in winter. For instance, under normal weather conditions, you might give the wiper blades a quick look to ascertain that they are in good working condition. Nonetheless, since you will be driving in snow, you have to go the extra mile and inspect the integrity of the wipers' joints. While you can get away with a slightly loose wiper blade in summer, the same module will buckle under the weight of snow in winter. As a rule, it is advisable to hand-inspect every part of the truck from the tires to the trailer lights.

Pack Winter Accessories Early -- Heavy haulage rigs come equipped with different accessories that enhance the performance of the equipment. Some of the accessories improve heavy hauling during winter. For example, when driving on a sloping, uneven road that is covered in snow, it is easy to lose traction. Wrapping the rear tires with tire chains creates the necessary friction and prevents the tires from skidding in loose snow. If you have never transported oversized machines in winter, then it is easy to forget to pack the tire chain, and that would spell trouble. Ensure that you pack winter accessories such as tire chains and traction mats at least two days before the trip. It will help you avoid a last-minute rush where you are bound to forget some of the essentials.

Confirm Navigation System Capabilities -- Heavy haulage rigs are equipped with the latest global positioning system technology. However, is the GPS unit on your truck capable of receiving weather updates or do you have to rely on the radio for weather updates? It is crucial to make this determination before your trip so that you can carry extra navigation equipment if necessary. For instance, if the GPS does not receive weather updates and a blizzard interferes with radio signals, you will not know what the weather will throw at you in the next hour. In such a case, you might need additional navigation technology such as apps on your smartphone or tablet. The objective is to ensure you can receive accurate information as and when required.