Heavy Haul Trucking in Winter

Driving a truck, laden with heavy equipment, across long stretches of road to deliver goods can be a challenging job in the best of circumstances. After all, an eighteen-wheeler handles a bit differently than your four-cylinder sedan. When you start to add in winter weather to the equation, things can get even more harrowing. Follow our tips for heavy haul trucking in winter weather.

Specific Challenges

Winter brings specific problems to be addressed. These challenges make driving in the winter uniquely problematic.

Cold

Obviously, cold and freezing temperatures lead to increased possibility of vehicle problems. Your risk of breakdowns, issues with battery power, tire pressure, rough performance, and more are increased in the cold. Poorer vehicle operation can lead to increased physical dangers.

Ice and Snow

Driving a larger vehicle in winter weather also amplifies other dangers, particularly those of inclement weather. Black ice is still a serious concern; losing control of a vehicle hauling heavy equipment is a frightening prospect. Drivers must take extra care and be vigilant of treacherous road conditions.

Sudden Weather Changes

While certainly a possibility at any time of year, winter often brings sudden weather changes. This makes planning longer transportation routes trickier in the winter months, as a sudden shift in the weather can alter the viability of a route.

Inspect the Vehicle

While a vehicle inspection should always be done before a haul, in winter it becomes all the more crucial. Check all fluid levels, tire pressure, and make sure the load is secured. Replace any worn-out parts and have all maintenance attended to. You must make sure to distribute the load evenly; this will ensure the lowest chance of the load causing the vehicle to lose control on the road.

Preparing for the Journey

As with any travel, if the weather is too extreme, do not make the journey. This can be difficult to do, especially if your business depends on heavy haul trucking. However, better to delay the delivery than to risk losing your goods or injuring a driver in an accident. Use prudence.

Dress appropriately. Wear layers and have plenty of spare clothing and blankets in your truck. Comfort can be key to making a more difficult journey pleasant.

Keep an emergency kit. Keeping a bag with a first aid kit, freeze-dried food, shelter, light, fire-starters, and a hand-crank radio is wise at any time of year. A kit like this can literally be the difference between life and death in the event of a disaster.

Drive slowly. Be extra cautious when driving in the snow. You need to give extra room when following other vehicles, and be prepared for frequent stops. Giving yourself extra room on the road can mitigate the risks of ice.

Along those same lines, avoid excessive braking.

If you are not prepared to handle the rigors of heavy haul trucking in emergencies, reach out to Moffitt Caswell Southern Trucking. Our qualified team is ready, willing, and able to assist you with all your heavy haul needs!