Asphalt Paving Machine Shipping

Before pickup, confirm that your paver is operational and can be safely driven or positioned for loading. Check that the engine starts reliably, the hopper raises and lowers properly, and the screed functions for positioning. For track pavers, verify that the tracks rotate smoothly. For wheeled pavers, check that tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread for loading operations.

If the paver is not operational (due to mechanical issues, hydraulic problems, or engine concerns), disclose this to your SAC coordinator at booking. Non-operational pavers require specialized loading equipment such as a crane or heavy forklift, which must be pre-arranged. Do not wait until the driver arrives to report operational issues that affect loading.

Before transport, position the screed in the retracted or narrow configuration to minimize width during transport. Raise the hopper to the transport position to provide ground clearance and reduce overall machine length. Secure any movable components in the transport position using the paver’s factory transport locks or secure chains where provided.

An improperly positioned screed that extends beyond the transport envelope can create width issues, permit complications, and safety hazards. A hopper left in the lowered position may have insufficient ground clearance for highway transport. Your SAC coordinator will confirm the transport dimensions based on your paver’s configuration at booking.

Before transport, thoroughly clean asphalt residue from the paver deck, hopper, and screed. Hardened asphalt creates additional weight, can damage trailer decks if pieces break off during transit, and may present loading hazards. Many carriers will refuse to load a paver with excessive asphalt buildup due to these concerns.

For pavers coming directly off a paving job, schedule time for proper cleaning before the carrier arrives. Heat the screed slightly to soften residue if needed, then scrape and remove buildup. A clean machine allows for proper tie-down placement and prevents debris from creating problems during highway transit.

Before transport, remove or secure any loose components that are not permanently attached. This includes removable screed extensions, end gates, slope sensors, and any aftermarket accessories that could shift or detach during transit. Clean out the operator platform and any storage compartments.

For pavers with quick-attach screed extensions, confirm that attachment pins are fully seated and secured or remove the extensions entirely if appropriate. Document any components that have been removed so they can be reinstalled correctly at delivery. Screed plates and augers should be secured against movement.

Before booking, measure your paver’s total length, width with screed in transport position, height with hopper raised, and approximate operating weight. Screed width is the critical dimension for permit assessment. Measure the full width including any attached extensions in their transport position. Accurate measurements are essential for correct trailer matching.

Provide these dimensions to your SAC coordinator at booking: overall length, transport screed width, height with hopper raised, undercarriage type (track or wheeled), and approximate weight. Inaccurate dimensions that result in the wrong carrier being dispatched can cause loading failures and costly rescheduling.

Before the pickup date, confirm that the pickup location has adequate access for a heavy-haul flatbed carrier and appropriate loading conditions. Pavers are typically driven onto the trailer under their own power, which requires a stable, level loading area and a trailer with an appropriate ramp angle or loading dock.

For non-operational pavers or sites without suitable loading areas, confirm that a crane or heavy forklift with adequate capacity is available for loading. Track pavers can be particularly challenging to load without the right ramp angle. Communicate site conditions to your coordinator so the right carrier with appropriate expectations is dispatched.

Before pickup, photograph the paver thoroughly from all angles: front, rear, both sides, screed, hopper, tracks or tires, and any existing damage or wear points. Time-stamp the photos and retain them for comparison at delivery. The carrier driver will complete a Bill of Lading condition report; review it against your documentation before signing.

At the delivery location, confirm that the site can accommodate the carrier and provide safe unloading conditions. Active paving operations, soft ground, steep grades, or limited turnaround space can create challenges. If the delivery site has access limitations, discuss alternative staging locations with your coordinator before the shipment is dispatched.