Transporting Prefabricated Buildings Why Low Loaders Are the Ultimate Solution

Prefabricated buildings are constructed in a factory. Therefore, transporting a prefab building does come with its challenges. Completed structures are large, oversized and sometimes have delicate features. The goal is to transport the building from A to B safely and without the structure suffering damage.

Low loader trucks are the transport vehicles of choice for this challenging task. This article highlights how low loaders can simplify the process, making it safe, more efficient and cost-effective.

The role of low loaders in transporting prefabricated buildings

The low profile of the low loader transport vehicle makes it easy to load and unload, as well as providing a lower and more stable centre of gravity. Their size and power enable the low loader to carry very large and heavy loads with ease.

The impressive length and breadth of the vehicle’s tray and adjustable drop deck make this truck ideal for transporting oversized prefabricated buildings. 

Advantages of using low loaders

Versatility and compatibility

Low loader trucks are the ultimate choice for transporting anything of size due to their versatility. Not only are they used to transport prefab buildings from the factory to the job site, but they are also the vehicle of choice for moving heavy equipment and a diverse range of cargo. The size of the low loader enables anyone with a load to move to do it all in one trip rather than multiple journeys. This saves time and money and is ultimately safer.

Manoeuvrability and ease of access

Low loaders are highly manoeuvrable, enabling the driver to readily navigate construction sites and other locations that have obstacles. Areas with difficult terrain and tight spaces are no problem for the low loader truck, making it easier for drivers to both transport the prefabricated building and position the truck exactly where it needs to be for safe unloading at the new location. No construction site is too difficult for a low loader.

Cost-effectiveness

Because a low loader can transport a prefabricated structure in one haul, this saves money on truck hire and any associated labour costs. You can expect competitive rates and negotiate terms with the hire company that meet your requirements and budget. Cost-effectiveness is an essential part of any profitable business, and choosing low loaders for transport makes financial sense.

Challenges in transporting prefabricated buildings

Understandably, there will be challenges to face when loading, transporting and unloading a prefab structure. These structures are big and can be extremely heavy. Therefore, it’s important to check what the rules and regulations are for transporting oversized loads in the area. You may also only be allowed to transport the prefab building at certain times of the day.

Navigating the route is something that needs careful planning. Will there be a lot of vehicles and pedestrian traffic along the journey? Are narrow roads a concern? Will the low loader encounter any bridges or tunnels en route?

Bad weather is another possibility, with strong winds or wet roads making the journey more treacherous. Expert packing and strapping down of the prefabricated building is crucial.

Safety protocols and regulatory compliance

The prefab building is loaded onto the low loader truck with a crane. While the task seems straightforward enough, it can be a dangerous process. Therefore, loading is done slowly and very carefully. There needs to be ample space in the area for both the loading and unloading processes, and workers should stand well clear. The building then needs to be secured to the truck with chains and straps so it cannot move. This protects the structure and also ensures nothing comes loose during transit.

Regulations for transporting oversized loads vary from state to state. You may require permits to transport your prefabricated structure, and in some states and regions, certain roads cannot be used, or transportation may only be allowed at night. It’s important to check the rules and regulations with the state and local governments in your location. If you’re travelling through multiple states, check the regulations for each state, as the rules will likely differ. A police escort might even be required in certain circumstances.

Preparing prefabricated buildings for transport

Prefab structures are often shrink-wrapped prior to loading onto the transport vehicle. Not only does this hold everything securely together, but it also prevents damage to the structure while being loaded, transported and unloaded. If it happens to rain, the building is protected from water damage by the plastic wrap.

Once loaded onto the truck, the chains and straps attach the building’s frame to the trailer or chassis of the low loader.

Case studies of successful transport projects

A recent project involved transporting a prefab, multi-section wooden school building. Specialised trailers with hydraulic lifting capabilities were used to navigate some rather difficult terrain. All sections of the structure had to be securely fastened and protected against moisture. Due to meticulous planning and careful work, the building was transported on time and with no issues.

Despite unpredictable weather conditions, a team managed to transport prefabricated office buildings on another project. When the entire operation is well planned, and the work is carried out carefully and efficiently, there’s no reason everything won’t go smoothly.

Where to hire a low loader?

Now that you understand more about transporting a prefabricated structure, hire a low loader, driver and an experienced team at Reef Group Services. We guarantee we’ll get your new building to its new location without a hitch, so contact us today.