FAQ

The methods of moving heavy equipment may depend on the dimensions of the goods being moved, and the locale of transportation. Some common methods of moving heavy equipment include:

An overhead crane can be used to lift a piece of machinery by utilising a winch and cables to lift the machinery off the ground; it is typically stabilised by one or two vertical columns and a bridge. Similarly to this, a chain hoist can lift and suspend equipment manually by a chain and winch system. These systems have limited mobility, however, and cannot travel over distances.

A machine skate is mobilised by four wheels on the bottom of the platform, on top of which heavy machinery can be placed for transportation. It requires further force to move the skate and machinery, however; the innovation of air skates has relieved this problem, using a film of air underneath the machinery to mobilise the machinery with ease.

A forklift is another method of moving heavy equipment, typically boasting two prongs which are used to lift and hold the machinery whilst an attached powered vehicle drives the unit.

Finally, a hand truck dolly, which is a platform supported by two wheels, can be used to transport smaller, heavier equipment. The dolly is rocked back onto its two wheels when the equipment is secured for transportation.

There are a few factors to consider when deciding between hiring and buying air skates:

Hiring air skates is preferable if you only require a one-time or infrequent use of the equipment, and will be more cost effective if this is the case. You may also choose to hire if the floors surrounding equipment are unsuitable for air skates - a temporary fix of the floors is more economic for infrequent use. Hiring air skates offers versatility in using the equipment for different machines as and when, rather than a permanent installation on one piece of machinery.

Purchasing permanent air skates may be suitable if machinery often needs repositioning, or if machinery is positioned in a hard to access location where alternatives such as forklifts cannot enter. Buying air skates can be more cost effective in the long run, plus can save time installing and removing the equipment for each use. Finally, buying air skates means machinery does not have to be lifted for the placement of hired skates each time it needs repositioning, reducing manual labour.