Lowloader Hire

Move large or heavy loads with ease

Explore our Lowloader Hire Service; our team is skilled in managing the transportation of loads of all shapes and sizes, so whatever you need to move, we can help.

Our Vehicles

We have a number of articulated semi lowloaders on our fleet that can be utilised to move heavy, wide or tall loads, in line with customers’ specific requirements, and with a maximum weight capacity of 40 tonnes. Our heavy haulage tractor units are paired with specialist wafer deck trailers to meet customers’ needs, whatever these may be.

Articulated semi lowloaders are ideal for transporting loads that exceed typical height and weight limits. Wafer deck trailers feature a unique design; a hinged connection between the tractor and the trailer, allowing for greater flexibility and manoeuvrability, which is particularly advantageous in tight driving conditions.

The "semi" aspect refers to the trailer partially resting on the tractor, distributing the load weight effectively. Semi lowloaders are lower to the ground compared to standard trailers, enhancing stability and making loading easier, especially for abnormal loads of all types, from construction equipment to high generator units. Their adaptability makes them invaluable for heavy-duty transport tasks.

Lowloader transporting a digger vehicle
Lowloader lorry transporting a digger

Alternative Trailers

Our heavy haulage tractor units can also be teamed with low height extendable step frame trailers, which are ideal for heavy and oversized loads that require extra support and flexibility in handling. Key features of these trailers include:

Low profile: Its reduced distance from the ground compared to standard trailers means that it has a lower centre of gravity, which enhances stability during transport and is particularly beneficial for carrying tall items that might otherwise be prone to toppling or are at risk of exceeding height restrictions on roads.

Adjustable length: Extendable step frame trailers have a built-in mechanism that allows the length of the trailer to be adjusted according to the size of the load. This flexibility is crucial for transporting particularly long items such as construction materials, beams or industrial machinery. The ability to extend the trailer helps accommodate various load sizes securely and efficiently.

Dropped rear section: The “step frame” refers to the trailer design where the rear part of the trailer bed is lower than the front. This stepped design facilitates easier loading and unloading of heavy equipment and machinery, which can be driven or rolled onto the trailer from the rear. The step also allows for taller items to be situated closer to the ground, helping to maintain clearance under bridges and overpasses.

Additional Services

We can provide additional support services for abnormal loads including Route Surveys and Abnormal Load Escorting, which serve a specific purpose in ensuring the safe and efficient transport of goods.

Route Surveys

A Route Survey and Swept Path Analyst is a detailed assessment conducted to identify the safest, most efficient route for transporting large loads, minimising risks and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. It involves:

  • Route selection: Choosing a path that can accommodate the size and weight of the load with minimal disruptions or modifications needed
  • Infrastructure analysis: Checking for adequate infrastructure along the route, such as roads, bridges, overpasses, to ensure they can support the load’s weight and dimensions.
  • Obstacle identification: Identifying potential obstacles along the route, such as narrow passages, low bridges, or tight turns that might require special handling or rerouting.
  • Permit requirements: Determining what permits are required for the chosen route, as oversized loads often need special permissions from various local, state, or federal authorities.
Abnormal Load Escorting

Abnormal Load Escorting involves the use of escort vehicles to accompany an oversized load during transport. It’s crucial for maintaining road safety, protecting the load and infrastructure, and ensuring that the transport operation complies with legal requirements. Escort vehicles perform several functions:

  • Safety communication: Escort vehicles help communicate the presence of an oversized load to other road users. This can involve signalling when the load is making wide turns, changing lanes or encountering obstacles.
  • Traffic management: Escort vehicles can help manage traffic around the oversized load, ensuring safe passage and minimising disruption.
  • Route clearance: They may go ahead of the load to ensure the route is clear of unexpected obstacles or to manage traffic control.
  • Emergency support: In case of any issues during transport, escort vehicles are on hand to provide immediate assistance and help resolve problems.

Safety First

  • All of our loader trailers are fitted with rear self-tracking or power steered axles to provide increased manoeuvrability.
  • Our lowloaders are equipped with specially-designed cycle safety systems, and we ensure all our drivers undertake additional training for Safe Urban Driving, which encompasses cycle safety.
  • Our lowloaders are fitted with fall protection and handrails to keep our driver/operators safe whilst moving on and off the vehicles.

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