A transformer can fit on a vessel and still miss its installation window because a bridge limits the final road leg or the site crane is booked for the wrong week. A heavy-lift shipment should be planned as one move from factory pickup to the agreed handover point. Each stage needs a confirmed route, a handling method and an identified party responsible for the handover.
Start with the packed cargo
Ask the manufacturer for a dimensioned drawing, verified gross weight, centre of gravity, lifting points and support locations. Use the shipping dimensions, including any skid, cradle or protective packing. Flag handling restrictions early, such as whether the unit must remain upright. This gives the road, terminal and vessel teams the same information when they assess equipment and clearances.
Check the route at both ends
Review factory access, turning space, overhead obstructions, bridge limits and any permits or escorts required. At each port, confirm the berth, handling equipment and the working space available. For a crane lift, check the capacity at the planned working radius. At destination, work backwards from the installation date to reserve the trailer, crane and site access window.
Agree on the handovers before loading
Set out who provides the lift and securing plans, who arranges any required surveys, and when approvals are due. Share the loading and discharge sequence with the teams responsible for transport, terminal handling and site receipt. If the installation date is fixed, identify where the cargo can be held if the vessel or site schedule changes.
What to send with your enquiry
Share the cargo drawing, packed dimensions and gross weight per piece, pickup and delivery addresses, cargo-ready date and required site delivery date.
Planning a transformer, turbine or other oversized move? Send your shipment details to our project logistics team at ssgmkt@sabelatrans.com.
PUBLISHING NOTES
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Plan a heavy-lift shipment from factory to site. Learn what to check for cargo drawings, road access, port handling, vessel selection and final delivery.
References Sabelatrans project logistics
