Buying a construction equipment transporter: a checklist

Start with the machines you carry

Four questions matter when you buy a truck to carry construction equipment. How much does each machine weigh in its transport configuration? Does it fit on the usable deck? Can it clear the ramps and the transition onto the deck? Can it be secured in the intended position? Check the heaviest and longest machines as well as the one with the least ground clearance. These may be three different machines.

Construction companies, access platform hire firms, equipment dealers and hauliers can start by listing the machines they transport regularly. Record occasional loads separately. That gives you a basis for specifying a truck body for day-to-day work and comparing it with a semi-trailer or low-loader where needed.

Check payload and axle loads together

Start with the maximum permissible gross vehicle weight. Subtract the weight of the road-ready truck, including the body and equipment carried permanently. The result is the theoretical upper limit for the load. When comparing quotes, check what equipment each figure includes. A winch, toolboxes and extra fittings all reduce the remaining payload.

Where the machine sits affects axle loads

Depending on its centre of gravity, a heavy machine can overload an axle or axle group even when the vehicle stays within its maximum gross weight. Have the intended loading positions checked against a load distribution plan. The vehicle documents and a weighbridge check of the agreed build can help you compare the quoted figures with the truck as it will be used. In Germany, also check the permitted axle loads under section 34 of the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO).

Specify the deck by its usable dimensions

Ask for the usable length and the clear width where the wheels, tracks and attachments will sit. The headboard, winch, ramp stops and rear slope affect where the machine can be positioned. Ask the bodybuilder to show these areas on a drawing of the proposed build.

For taller machines, check the overall loaded height. A lower deck can provide extra clearance through workshop doors and under low structures. Check the loaded dimensions of the whole vehicle against your regular routes. For tracked machines, also check that the deck can support the load over the areas where the tracks make contact.

Compare ramps and approach angles

A shallow approach angle makes loading easier for many machines with low ground clearance. Check the transitions from the ground onto the ramp and from the ramp onto the deck. Long wheelbases or low components can cause the machine to ground at the change in angle. For loading, follow the instructions of the machine manufacturer and the bodybuilder. German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) lists ramp angle, width, load capacity and surface as points to check.

• Compare the ramp width and adjustment range with the machine’s tyres or tracks and its track gauge.
• Confirm whether the capacity applies to each ramp or to the pair, and under what loading conditions.
• Check the space behind the truck and the surface that will support the ramp ends.

Hydraulically folding ramps with lateral adjustment make it easier to switch between machines with different track gauges. If you regularly carry access platforms with low ground clearance, compare the ramp geometry with that of a GEFAS access platform transporter. That body has its own ramp and payload specifications.

Choose suitable lashing points, winch and controls

Check which lashing points you can reach

Compare the lashing points on the truck body with the designated attachment points on the machine. Both need to be accessible in the intended loading position. The loading diagram for the machine will help you find its designated points. The daN figure gives the rating of an individual point. The securing arrangement also depends on the lashing method, angles, equipment and machine instructions. Section 22 of the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) governs load securing in Germany. BG BAU summarises the checks for transporting construction machinery.

Size the winch for the intended job

Ask how much pull the winch delivers on the drum layers you expect to use, and which rope routing the manufacturer permits. Gradient, rolling resistance, the rope layer and the available attachment points all affect the specification. You need those details alongside the rated pull to determine which machines the winch can load.

When comparing quotes, walk through the full loading sequence. Where will the operator stand? Can they see the ramps, stabilisers and winch from that position? How will they operate the system if it fails? Position toolboxes and lights where they are needed in daily use.

Worked example: a 32-tonne MAN chassis

The GEFAS construction equipment transporter on special offer shows how the deck, ramps and controls work together on a specific build. The figures below are taken from the offer.

Read these figures together when comparing quotes. The capacity of the ramp pair and the payload of the truck apply to different components and loading conditions. Ask for confirmation of the usable clear width, axle loads and intended loading positions for your machines. GEFAS can confirm the scope of supply and availability on enquiry.

What to include in your enquiry

• The manufacturer, model and data sheet for each machine you carry regularly.
• Actual transport weights, overall dimensions, track gauges and ground clearance with attachments fitted.
• Loading positions and attachment points shown in the machine documentation. Include photos in transport configuration if you have them.
• Typical loading sites and any need for a winch, hydraulic controls, storage boxes or extra lighting.
• If fitting the body to an existing chassis, include the vehicle details and the load distribution plan if available.

These details help you compare quotes against the same requirements. Before placing an order, confirm any outstanding dimensions and load ratings against the drawing or data sheet for the specific build.