We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Machinery

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Different Types of Heavy Transport Equipment?

Dan Cavallari
By
Updated: May 17, 2024

Heavy transport equipment is used to move extremely large, bulky, or heavy items and materials from one point to another. Various types of equipment exist for this purpose, and the right heavy transport equipment will depend on what items or materials are being moved. Large diesel tractors are often used to haul specially designed flatbed or dropped bed trailers for exceptionally large components, such as bridge components, water system components, aircraft engines or hulls, and much more. If the load needs to be lifted, specially designed forklifts or telehandlers may be used.

A telehandler is similar to a forklift in that it features forks that can be used in conjunction with pallets, but the telehandler features a long, telescoping arm that can lift loads upward and forward. The telehandler usually has a higher weight capacity than a forklift, and it can lift loads over obstructions or otherwise away from the body of the machine. This machine does, however, run the risk of tipping over if the weight capacity is exceeded, since the load can essentially tip the machine forward. Many telehandlers have an automatic shutoff system if the weight capacity is exceeded or if the load is extended too far forward.

Modular transporters may be used as heavy transport equipment for exceptionally large loads. These machines will feature numerous tires mounted in succession to hold up a long, wide platform. This type of heavy transport equipment may be self-propelled, or it may be hauled by a towing vehicle. If it is self-propelled, an operator's cabin will be mounted toward the front of the machine, often underneath the level of the load being hauled. The wheels may move forward and backward, but in some cases they may also be able to move laterally if oriented properly. The modular transporter will feature air brakes and heavy-duty suspension to support the weight of the load.

Prime movers are pieces of heavy transport equipment resembling more typical tractor trailers or heavy-duty trucks. These vehicles usually feature six wheels or more, and they have exceptional towing capabilities for hauling large loads. Trailers can be hooked up to prime movers so large loads can be hauled. When such a machine is in operation, guide vehicles are usually required to escort it from one point to another. Any car or truck can be used as a guide vehicle, as long as lights and signage can be mounted to that vehicle.

About Mechanics is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Dan Cavallari
By Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Discussion Comments
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Share
https://www.aboutmechanics.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-heavy-transport-equipment.htm
About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.