Heavy Haulers Daily Blog

Shipping a tank truck on a hot shot trailer

Planning Efficient Routes for Heavy Hauling in Snowy Conditions

Winter route planning is essential for heavy hauling equipment in snow. Careful consideration of safety, road conditions, alternative highways, and weather forecasting helps navigate the unique challenges of snowy terrains. Efficient route planning sustains the load’s, driver’s, and other road user’s safety. Efficient route planning is critical in heavy hauling in snow. It helps identify roads with minimal exposure to snow accumulation with better removal and maintenance.

Shipping a tank truck on a hot shot trailer

Factors Influencing Heavy Haul Route Selection in Snow

Heavy hauling in snow requires an experienced company that considers all the vital factors influencing route selection in winter. A suitable heavy load road is essential for effective and efficient cargo delivery.

Key factors that influence winter route planning include:

Road Conditions and Closures

When planning the appropriate route for efficient winter transportation, evaluate the condition of significant highways and possible closures. Also, assess the snow clearance and maintenance capabilities of these roads.

Major highways have a higher prompt clearance rate than secondary roads that may be likely closed. Consider if the route has salt spreaders, snowplows, and other vital removal tools and equipment.

Terrain and Elevation Considerations

Efficient winter route planning should also consider terrain and elevation. Take note of highways with high-elevation mountain passes because they are more prone to heavy snowfall. It’s essential to avoid steep grade routes, which can be dangerous in snowy conditions with risks of skidding.

Predicted Weather Patterns

Monitor weather forecasts for snowfall predictions to effectively plan your heavy hauling in snow. Check the snowfall duration on potential routes and consider roads with low snow accumulation.

Tools and Technologies for Winter Route Planning

Heavy hauling in snow requires various tools and technologies to help you plan winter routes. Expert and experienced companies have the right equipment to facilitate efficient winter transportation.

Common tools and technologies include:

Advanced GPS Systems with Real-Time Updates

For optimized safety and timely delivery, you can plan your winter heavy hauling route by incorporating advanced GPS systems for efficiency and prompt response in case of any eventualities. Ensure the truck is equipped with GPS navigation systems with real-time updates, route planning, and alternative route suggestions features depending on weather conditions.

Weather Forecasting Tools

When planning for heavy hauling in snow, utilize reliable weather forecasting services to access real-time information on weather conditions, especially on your planned route, pickup, and destination location. Other vital tools are the Road Weather Information Systems (RWIS) used by several states and regions to provide data on:

  • Road surface conditions
  • Air temperature
  • Precipitation
  • Expected snowfall and more

Traffic Monitoring Systems

These systems provide real-time traffic and road condition updates such as closures, accidents, slowdowns, and heavy snowfall highways. The systems help ensure your heavy equipment shipment arrives safely and on time by picking the most suitable route.