Over-Dimensional Cargo (ODC) Handling with Specialized Solutions

Over-Dimensional Cargo (ODC) is designed to pack and transport goods that standard containers cannot accommodate. So, this includes cargo such as construction equipment, wind turbines, and other massively heavy machinery.

However, why do EXIM businesses have to trade heavy and massive items across borders? Intentionally, these types of cargo that are too large to transport tap a global market that can improve profits. Domestic markets are just the beginning when it comes to shipping equipment that conventional cargo containers cannot accommodate. Whereas tapping the market on a global scale for over-dimensional cargo can make a sizable difference in business growth.

What are the Types of Over-Dimensional Cargo?

Oversized equipment covers the following dimensions:

•        Length: 20 to 40 feet

•        Width: Wider than 8 feet

•        Height: 11 feet from ground level

That said, over-dimensional cargo comes in different types:

•        Offshore and Energy Equipment

This type of equipment includes oil rig components, wind turbines, and power plant parts. They typically have large dimensions, are extremely heavy, and require specialized and safe forms of transportation.

This type of over-dimensional cargo is not limited to shipping across borders. EXIM businesses have to arrange their goods transportation through land, sea, and, if needed, air.

The cargo authorities can secure equipment through adequate packaging materials. They also need to secure the cargo based on the safety and compliance regulations.

•        Heavy Machinery and Equipment

The size, weight, and height of this equipment define its classification apart from the conventional dimensions. This means that the equipment does not have a set dimension throughout its body, such as those of cranes and excavators, transformers, mining tools, and more. Handlers must often dismantle the equipment and load it into specialized trailers to transport it securely to their destination.

•        Large Structures and Components

If you want to transport pre-fabricated buildings, parts of bridges, or industrial plant sections, over-dimensional cargo is your next step. Handlers can transport these massive components through barges or specialized trailers. They should accurately plan the transportation of these structures by assessing the routes and coordinating with authorities for safe and timely travel.

Over-dimensional cargo handling services are offered at the Chennai CFS in Tamil Nadu this year. This section handles the entry of heavy and massive components at a dedicated ODC gate to streamline movement.

Solutions to ODC-handling Challenges

Challenges involved legal to regulatory issues, specialized handling requirements, professional capabilities, accountability, and infrastructural limitations.

•        Regulatory compliance

Over-dimensional cargo calls for different permits in different jurisdictions, including escorts and licenses.

Solution: Hire expert logistics providers who have the experience and sense of accountability to handle ODC transportation.

•        Specialized handling requirements

These components and equipment are heavy and massive, creating the likelihood of damage during transportation.

Solution: Expertise in handling such equipment and strong coordination between handlers and authorities can lead to preventing damage. It can also ensure a secure transportation to the final destination.

•        Infrastructural limitations

Bridges, tunnels, and roads cannot always sustain the transportation of heavy equipment such as towers, low-bed trailers, and so on.

Solution: Plan the modes of transport from identifying suitable routes to making sure every path can accommodate the dimensions of the cargo. Do not neglect existing narrow roads, roads with weight restrictions, or low bridges. Conduct necessary road assessments and other transport pathways and mode-related challenges.

Future Trends for Over-Dimensional Cargo

Technology can play a vital role in improving the solutions to the challenges of handling over-dimensional cargo.

Logistics companies can introduce electric or hybrid vehicles to initiate sustainable practices to reduce emissions and the environmental impact. At the same time, handlers can optimize space utilization, reduce waste, and apply eco-friendly practices for packaging materials.

Innovative over-dimensional cargo handling can benefit from technology integration and tracking systems. Handlers can track the movement of over-dimensional cargo through real-time tracking software, identify potential roadblocks, and create solutions beforehand.

Professional Over-Dimensional Cargo Handlers

When it comes to handling ODC through sustainable and innovative ways, hiring the right handlers matters. Your cargo requires specialized services with the skills to manage and navigate the safe and secure transportation of large-scale equipment. They should explore the potential challenges involved, the complexities, and offer customizable solutions.

They should do necessary road surveys to identify where transport vehicles are not permitted. The logistics experts must be aware of alternative routes for times when routes are blocked or ruled out for transportation.

Your logistics providers must obtain the necessary permits that your cargo necessitates for a safe and guaranteed delivery. 

Any large and heavy cargo that exceeds the conventional dimensions will require over-dimensional cargo handling services. Are you looking for reliable logistics companies to look after your large and heavy components, machinery, or equipment? You can connect with Allcargo Terminals to ensure that your over-dimensional cargo is handled safely and transported with adequate security to ensure your business continues to grow.