Each type of cargo has unique characteristics that must be accommodated when transporting it. When transporting steel, close attention must be paid to standards and safety regulations. Loads of rolled steel must be properly fastened to ensure safety and prevent uncontrolled displacement during movement. To fulfill the above requirements, a special type of rolling stock called coil trailers is used.
Semi-trailers of this type have reinforced flooring and so-called transport troughs into which coiled steel is loaded. Additionally, loads are secured with transport belts, chains, anti-slip mats, and props. Correct fastening guarantees the safety of the cargo as well as everyone on the road. These semi-trailers can be loaded from above and from the side.
Irina Polyukhovich
“AsstrA cooperates with the largest steel producers in the world. As a rule, one coil trailer can transport 2-4 steel rolls weighing 6 tons each. The team in Warsaw is responsible for organizing the transportation of special cargo not requiring a transport permit,” says Irina Polyukhovich, a Specialist in the Specialized Road Transportation Division at AsstrA in Warsaw.
Monika Krol
“For the transport of oversized cargo in European countries, such as Poland or Germany, a permit is required if the weight of the load of the automatic coupler (tractor + trailer) exceeds 40 tons. However, the key challenge lies not in obtaining a permit but rather in finding a reliable carrier who owns his own trough for transporting coils weighing over 29 tons. Such trailers are rarely found on the Polish market,” says Monika Krol from the Oversized Division at AsstrA in Poznan.
Steel is susceptible to corrosion. Therefore it is important to ensure that proper temperatures are maintained during transportation. In particular, on hot days, it is necessary to prevent condensation of water vapor on the steel elements in order to prevent corrosion. When transporting steel, it is important to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. When parked, semitrailers loaded with steel goods must be indoors.
“In the world of logistics, cargo preparation delays, late vehicle arrivals, and canceled transport orders are daily challenges. Team members show their professionalism by instantly responding to situations as they arise and adjusting action plans so that each supply chain participant completes the intended goals.
In August, a situation arose when an automotive industry customer’s regular carrier was not able to provide a vehicle to be loaded in Neunkirchen, Germany, with delivery to St. Petersburg. However, the goods had to be delivered according to schedule in order not to stop production in Russia. Therefore, the client turned to AsstrA for help.
On the same day, a shipment for another client was planned from Germany to St. Petersburg, and we decided to redirect the truck. Thanks to their quick response, the AsstrA team was able to offer favorable delivery times for both clients. All supply chain requirements were satisfied and there were no additional costs for any party. Moreover, our partner carrier received an additional transport order. Everyone we work with, whether a regular customer or a new partner, appreciates our proactive approach to handling emergency situations like this one,” summarizes Irina Polyukhovich.