Autumn is a busy time for site work, with people trying to get cabins, materials and machinery in place before the weather turns. When someone emails us about a HIAB lift, we reply with a few questions before anything is booked. It is not paperwork for the sake of it. Every lift is planned before the vehicle is booked, and the answers you give shape which lorry we send, how it is set up and how the day runs.
Tell us about the load
The first thing we want to know is what we are moving. A rough description is a good start, but photos are even better. We ask about the size of the item, roughly what it weighs if you know, and whether it has lifting points, forklift pockets or a frame we can attach to. If you are not sure about the weight, tell us what the item is and where it came from, and we will work it out with you.
Tell us about the load and we will plan it. That might mean a rigid HIAB for a single item, an artic HIAB for longer loads, or a wagon and drag if there is more than one piece to carry. If you are new to lorry mounted lifting, our guide to what a HIAB is and how it works covers the basics.
The site and how we get in
Next we ask about access. Where does the lorry park, and is the ground firm and level, such as concrete, asphalt or compacted hardstanding? Are there gates, overhead cables, trees, tight corners or width restrictions on the way in? Is there a road outside that might need a parking suspension or a permit?
A quick photo of the entrance and the parking spot tells us a lot. It helps us choose the right vehicle and plan where the stabiliser legs will go, so the setup is decided well before the lorry leaves the yard.
Where it needs to go
We then ask exactly where the load needs to be set down. Is it going onto a prepared base, onto blocks, into a building through a loading door, or onto another unit? Knowing the final position means our drivers can plan the reach and the angle of the lift, and the slinger knows how the load should be rigged so it lands square.
For portable cabin moves this is especially useful, because the base needs to be ready and level before the cabin arrives.
Timing, people and paperwork
Finally, we ask about timing and who will be on site. Are there delivery windows, a site induction, or a booking system at the gate? Who is the contact on the day? Do you need lift plans or method statements for your file? Our drivers hold ALLMI training, and we are happy to share the documents your site manager asks for.
The more you can tell us at the start, the smoother the day goes for everyone. If you have a lift coming up this autumn, email us with photos and a short description, or send your details through our quote form, and we will come back to you with a plan.
