A Step-By-Step Guide To Transporting Your Aerial Lift
The epitome of efficiency, versatility, and productivity, aerial lifts can handle a wide variety of tasks without breaking a sweat. Found commonly on all kinds of worksites – from industrial to construction, and beyond – these platforms have become a modern-day staple.
Despite their universal presence and ability to navigate tight spaces while handling various challenging tasks, one cannot help but wonder – how to get an aerial lift to the main jobsite? What can be done to ensure safe transportation?
Well, if you have the same questions, Platform Basket Canada has the answers! As manufacturers of some of the best aerial lifts available in Canada, we are here to give you trade secrets on how to transport your platform.
Read our step-by-step guide below to learn how you can move your lifting solution across sites without a hitch.
5 Steps To Transport Your Aerial Lift Safely
Step #1: Get the right vehicle
Moving aerial lifts from your depot to a construction site, for example, requires the careful selection of the right vehicle type. That said, the final choice depends on the type of platform you intend to transport.
For instance, a trailer suffices for transporting spider lifts due to their lightweight and compact build. On the other hand, if you have to move rail boom lifts, it is better to resort to specialized vehicles to accommodate their heavier and larger build. Professional movers may be able to help you out here, depending on the configurations of your specific lift.
A word of advice? Always verify your chosen vehicle’s payload capacity against the weight and dimensions of your lift model to prevent tip-overs.
Step #2: Inspect your lift before transportation
A pre-loading health check will help you ascertain whether your aerial lift is in suitable condition for travel. When verifying your platform’s health, be sure to check for:
- Loose parts, fluid leaks, or visible signs of wear
- Whether stabilizers, booms, and outriggers retract fully
- Loose accessories or attachments
Keep a record of every inspection you conduct so you have a reliable source of information in case you need to make transport damage claims.
Step #3: Load the lift properly
Use dedicated ramps or heavy-duty hydraulic systems to get your aerial boom lift onto your chosen vehicle. Make sure each of them is rated to handle your lift’s weight. Also, make sure you drive at a slower, steadier speed – whether your platform is in the trailer or winched onto it. If it is inside, keep it centered. This prevents tipping. Lastly, if you are using winches, ensure the chains and straps you use can safely handle the load of your lift.
Step #4: Secure your lift
As soon as your aerial lift makes it to the vehicle of your choice, use heavy-duty ratchet straps to keep it securely in place. You can also use chains. Irrespective of the attachment method you choose, the straps or chains should be rated to handle the weight of your machine.
Also, make sure the lift is secure at all designated tie-down points before you begin driving. Cross-strapping is a good idea – especially if you have to go through rough terrain during transit. Lastly, we suggest double-checking the boom and tracks are immobilized before you take off.
Step #5: Protect your lift in transit
Finally, before you set off, check the weather and the road conditions of your estimated travel route. For example, if rain or snow is on the cards, cover your lift with a tarp to protect its electrical components. Park on level ground when you arrive and ensure your destination is clear of any obstructions or people. Use ramps or other specialized unloading systems to prevent the lift from dropping to the ground when offloading. Inspect it carefully for any signs of in-transit damage post-arrival.
Conclusion
Aerial lifts can simplify the most complex jobs, provided they arrive on your site in a functional condition. By following the steps we have listed above, you can ensure your lift is raring to go the second it lands at your worksite.
At Platform Basket Canada, we are here to support you at every step of your aerial lift platform purchase journey – from demonstration to set-up, and ultimately, transportation to your preferred destination. Contact us to get machines that deliver lasting performance.
