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Transporting work platforms safely

The decision to rent a work platform has been made and the rental period is set. Now one of the most important tasks is at hand: transporting the work platform from A to B. Whether it is a short project nearby or a longer assignment at a remote location, the smooth and safe transport of the work platform is crucial to the success of your project. This requires careful planning , the right choice of transport mode and detailed preparation of the machines . In this article, we will walk you through the key elements required for efficient and hassle-free transport of your rented work platforms .

From considering whether to pick up the work platforms yourself or have them delivered , to tips for safe transport and more, we cover all the important aspects to ensure your work platforms arrive exactly where they are needed, safe and ready for use.

Should you transport the work platform yourself or have the rental company deliver it?

Whether you transport the aerial work platform yourself or have it delivered by the aerial work platform rental company depends on several factors. If you decide to collect it yourself, you will need a suitable means of transport and should have the necessary know-how to load and transport the aerial work platform safely. This option can be more cost-effective but requires additional effort and planning on your part. Alternatively, you can also have the aerial work platform transported by the rental company. This more convenient option ensures that the aerial work platform is delivered to your location professionally and safely. For more information on the respective costs and logistical details, we are happy to provide you with detailed documentation. The choice ultimately depends on your specific requirements and resources.

Self-transport or delivery? The advantages and disadvantages in comparison

Depending on your budget, experience and available equipment, you can choose between transporting it yourself or having the rental company deliver it.

self-transport

Advantages : Flexibility, possible cost savings.
Disadvantages : Requires suitable vehicles, experience in transporting heavy machinery and additional time for planning.

delivery by the landlord

Advantages : Professional handling, no logistical worries.
Disadvantages : Higher costs, dependence on the landlord's schedule.

transport planning

Have you decided to transport your aerial work platform yourself? Then you should consider a few important points when planning the transport. First of all, it is necessary to know the exact weight and transport dimensions of the aerial work platform - this includes the transport width, the transport height and the dead weight of the work platform. This information is crucial for choosing the right means of transport and for ensuring safety. It is equally important to know the maximum height and width so that the device can easily reach its place of use after unloading. The time of use also plays a role: plan enough time to transport the aerial work platform on time and safely. Also remember that special means of transport and permits may be required for larger models with higher working heights.

Thorough and forward-looking planning saves time and ensures that the aerial work platform arrives at the site safely and on time. If in doubt, many rental companies offer detailed information and support to make transport as easy and efficient as possible for the customer.

checklist

Before the transport begins, you should prepare the following points:

Dimensions and weight of the work platform : Note the width, height, length and weight.
Route : Check that the route is suitable for the dimensions of the stage (e.g. bridge heights).
Time planning : Allow sufficient time for loading, transport and unloading.
Permits : Find out if special permits are required for oversized items.

Choosing the right means of transport for work platforms

The selection of the right means of transport for transporting aerial work platforms depends primarily on the dimensions and weight of the work platform. Important factors include the load-bearing capacity of the transport vehicle, the width and weight of the platform, and the distances to be covered to the site of use.

For smaller mobile work platforms, such as scissor lifts with a low deadweight, a normal car with a trailer is often sufficient. For larger models that reach several meters in height and have a higher deadweight, however, specialised heavy-duty vehicles are necessary. These not only ensure safety during transport, but also enable the work platform to be loaded and unloaded without any risks.

Always pay attention to the maximum load capacity and dimensions of the selected means of transport. It must be able to safely support the weight of the work platform and the additional equipment. In addition, the ground conditions and the accessibility of the site should be taken into account to avoid complications.

Many aerial work platform rental companies provide detailed information on each model of their aerial work platform, including recommendations for suitable means of transport. It is worth asking for this information in advance and seeking professional advice if necessary. This will ensure that the transport of your aerial work platform is not only efficient, but also safe and compliant.

How to choose the right means of transport

Small work platforms (e.g. transporting small scissor lifts) : Often a car with a suitable trailer and suitable loading ramps is sufficient.
Medium-sized platforms (e.g. mast platforms or multiple scissor lifts) : already require trucks and a way to load the work platforms onto the loading area.
Large work platforms (e.g. articulated telescopic platforms) : require heavy-duty vehicles or semi-trailers with the appropriate structure.

Practical tips for smooth work platform transport

In addition to the correct planning and selection of the means of transport, the correct load securing and some practical tips are crucial for the smooth transport of your aerial work platform.

Firstly, it is important to use suitable securing accessories. These include, for example, tensioning belts that are strong enough to keep the aerial work platform securely on the means of transport. Make sure that the accessories comply with the applicable safety standards and are regularly checked for damage. This is important because inadequate securing can lead to serious accidents.

When loading the aerial work platform, ensure that the load is evenly distributed and that the center of gravity is as low as possible to ensure stability during transport. In addition, it is advisable to secure the aerial work platform against movement in all directions, especially if uneven roads or changing ground conditions are to be expected.

Certain measures must be taken to secure the aerial work platform during transport: First, the aerial work platform must be secured on the transport vehicle or trailer, e.g. using the safety bolt that secures the upper carriage against accidental swiveling. The second step is to secure the platform itself, e.g. by putting the jib into the transport position and securing the platform with tensioning straps. The third step is to secure the chassis, which requires at least six strong chains.

Safe loading and unloading

Extreme caution is required when loading and unloading work platforms, as these machines weigh several tons and even the slightest carelessness can lead to dangerous situations. Therefore, always wear suitable protective equipment, especially safety shoes with non-slip soles, even if these cannot offer complete protection in an emergency.

Pay particular attention to weather conditions: wet or slippery ramps caused by rain increase the risk of the platform sliding during loading or unloading.

Therefore, secure ramps and loading areas sufficiently and, if necessary, use anti-slip mats or similar aids to increase stability. Before use, check whether the ramps used can safely support the weight of the work platform.

transport checklist

Loading the work platform : Ensure even load distribution and a low centre of gravity.
Securing loads : Use suitable tensioning straps, chains or other securing systems that comply with regulations.
Check before departure : Check all fastenings and test the stability of the load.
Adjust your driving style : Drive carefully, especially when cornering or on uneven roads.

Legal regulations and permits

Also pay attention to the height limits and clearance restrictions on your route. Find out in advance about the exact dimensions of the work platform (height, width, length) and compare these with the clearance heights on your planned route.

Make sure that all necessary transport permits, especially for oversized machines, are obtained in a timely manner. Some regions or cities have special regulations for the transport of large machines that must be complied with.

When loading and unloading mobile elevating work platforms on public roads, appropriate measures must be taken to protect people in the vicinity, such as the use of traffic cones or barrier tape.

It is recommended to familiarise yourself with ISO 18893:2014, which covers safety principles, testing, maintenance and operation of mobile elevating work platforms, including transport and driving on public roads.

Avoid dangerous mistakes

Inadequate securing: Incorrect or inadequate securing methods can lead to serious accidents.
Wrong means of transport : Choose the vehicle appropriate for the size and weight of the stage.
Missing permits : Incomplete documentation may result in penalties or delays.
Be careful when loading and unloading! Work platforms can weigh several tons. Even if they are of little help in an emergency, safety shoes are a must. Rain and slippery ramps could cause the platform to slide when loading and unloading.

Conclusion: Do it yourself or hire professionals? The right choice for transporting work platforms

If you have the necessary experience and the right equipment, you can transport your work platform yourself. This requires detailed knowledge of safety precautions, the right means of transport and the know-how to correctly secure the load.

However, if you have any doubts or do not have the necessary resources, it is advisable to leave the transport to the professionals. Expert rental companies for work platforms have the necessary equipment, their own fleet, the experience and the knowledge to bring your work platforms to the site safely and efficiently.

This decision is not only a matter of convenience, but also an important measure to minimize safety risks and ensure the integrity of your equipment. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual circumstances - whether you choose to pick up the equipment yourself or use a professional transport service, the ultimate goal should always be to ensure that your aerial work platforms arrive at the job site safely and on time.