Since most projects using mini excavators have short project cycles, these machines are frequently moved between sites, resulting in numerous loading and unloading operations on flatbed trucks.
Improper loading and unloading can easily lead to accidents such as the machine falling or tipping over, and in severe cases, injuries. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the precautions for loading and unloading mini excavators on flatbeds.
During loading and unloading:
Choose a flat, hard surface for loading and unloading, and maintain a sufficient distance from the roadside.
Reducing engine speed and driving at low speeds during loading and unloading.
Using loading and unloading platforms with sufficient strength and hooks is mandatory.
Confirm that the width, length, and thickness of the loading and unloading platform are suitable for safe loading and unloading (if the tracks are retractable, they must be fully extended). If the platform has excessive curvature, add padding blocks under it to increase support.
The loading and unloading platform must be securely attached to the truck bed. To prevent the vehicle from sliding laterally on the loading and unloading platform, clean any mud from the running gear.
Wipe away any grease, oil, water, or other contaminants from the loading platform.
Never change direction while on the loading platform.
If you need to change direction, lower the loading platform first, then change direction. When rotating the upper swivel mechanism on the truck, rotate slowly due to instability under the tracks.
During transport:
Lower the bulldozer blade onto the truck’s loading platform.
Extend the boom cylinder piston rod and bucket cylinder to the end of their stroke, lower the boom, and gently lower the bucket onto the wooden blocks, adding stoppers before and after the tracks. During transport, insert shackles into the vehicle’s hook holes and secure them with chains or wire ropes. Ensure they are securely fastened and take care to prevent lateral slippage of the vehicle.
