For cargo handling tasks, what you have isn't always what you need. Then again, even the most efficient operation can't possibly own and offer every conceivable piece of hardware and remain competitive.
Take mobile yard ramps, for example. What seems a simple item actually comes in such a variety of sizes and specifications that it's highly unlikely that any one concern could even store all the different units, let alone keep them ready for use. There is an option used by most sensible cargo-handling firms. Like a lot of loading bay equipment, mobile yard ramps can be hired, on a short or long-term basis.
Starting with the basics, we can consider what you should look for. Steel construction is a worthwhile primary requirement, especially if the steel is protected with top quality paint that boasts rust inhibiting additives. However, sturdiness and good looks aren't everything. By definition, mobile yard ramps must be moveable and outstanding design and manufacturing standards are essential to ease of use.
Well-designed mobile yard ramps will be capable of transferring throughout their structure the substantial dynamic loads they must accommodate. Their ability to do this with loads up to, say, 12,000kg, transferring this to twin axles should be a given. The same goes for longevity – they have to cope with such loads day in, day out – for life.
Ease of use is another important factor. Mobile yard ramps may be moved using a forklift truck. Some have a pushing attachment for this purpose. The presence of a tough run-on plate is desirable; after all, having positioned the ramp, a forklift will have to use it. It's also desirable for mobile yard ramps to be finely balanced, making them easy to handle and manoeuvre. There is, in addition, the matter of setting the ramp to the required height. The inclusion of a hydraulic hand pump makes for quick and easy raising and lowering.
Hiring mobile yard ramps makes a lot of sense in terms of both practicality and economy. That said, it's well worth considering any hidden costs when negotiating hire arrangements. What hidden costs? The first that springs to mind is servicing. Mobile yard ramps might not look too complicated but they do have moving parts and there is also the matter of fatigue servicing. Are these included in the hire charge?
The same might apply to transportation. To cope with big, heavy loads, mobile yard ramps must themselves be big and heavy. For example, a 12-tonne ramp can be 11.7 metres long, 2.6 metres wide and weigh nearly 4,200kg. You may have the very vehicle to collect and return a ramp like this but if you haven't, face facts; one isn't going to fit on your car's roof rack. Are delivery and collection included and if they aren't what are the costs?
When hiring, as in many other contexts, knowledge is power. This principle has been known since the 16th Century and it remains useful to this day. Knowing about all the costs – including those that aren't immediately obvious – empowers you to strike the most enticing deal for you, your company and its clients.
No comments:
Post a Comment