7 Tips for Modular Transportation Logistics

Planning modular transportation logistics is a complex, multifaceted process that involves a variety of stakeholders and phases. We broke down everything you need to know with a helpful infographic recently, and, because our community liked it so much, we wanted to follow up with some sage advice and industry secrets from our team of experts. Now, you can embark on this process with some important tips that will help you create a truly streamlined and effective delivery logistics process that will better your business.

7 modular transportation logistics tips from the specialists

1) Partner with a logistics specialist that allows you to outsource all the planning and execution. 

The modular transportation planning and logistics process is complicated and involved. While hiring a logistics partner is an investment, it will overwhelmingly save you time and money in the long run by bringing expertise to your planning and by avoiding roadblocks or complications when the inevitable unexpected arises. 

Working with a trusted logistics partner like Stream Modular ensures that the job will be handled properly, from permits across state lines to route planning and coordinating with your job site team for a seamless delivery. You’ll reduce the need for in-house coordination and management of the logistics process while gaining efficiencies from your partner’s experience.

2) Develop a detailed, comprehensive transportation plan. 

Your modular transportation plan needs to be incredibly detailed, taking into account factors like the size and weight of the modules, the number of trucks you’ll need, and the module handling requirements. By noting and organizing every detail, you can minimize the risk of delays or damage and better ensure that module delivery to the job site is on time.

What’s more, the sequence and timing of deliveries in modular construction are critical. That’s why you need to view a project in its entirety and as a series of steps that produce a result, rather than a collection of individual shipments. When one thing changes — like a delay, rearrangement, or adjusted shipment timing — the project manager can make all the necessary downstream logistics adjustments.

3) Streamline the communication process. 

Communication is key for the entire logistics process. Without clear and constant communication there can be misunderstandings that cause delays or accidents. 

But, constant and clear communication doesn’t mean a bombardment either, because overly communicating can also cause confusion. So, it is imperative to streamline the communications between key stakeholders at the factory, logistics company and job site. 

Always know the right point of contact, and speak with them ahead of the job so that you not only have a rapport, but can communicate with them in an effective way. Part of this is also letting everyone in on the plan ahead of time, explaining their role and what they can expect on the day-of so that everyone can prepare properly. 

Setting standards for communication will also help, letting people know if or when you will be getting in touch, as well as how. 

Pro tip: When working with a logistics partner like Stream Modular, you can trust them to take care of all communication responsibilities on your behalf. You ensure a well-defined project flow that encompasses a thorough breakdown of tasks and milestones, enabling the smooth delivery of modules to the construction site. This approach fosters efficient communication and coordination throughout the entirety of the project lifecycle.

4) Implement a tracking system. 

In line with having a clear and streamlined communication process, it’s important to have GPS locations on your modules at all times. Not only can this help you identify any issues or delays in real-time, but it also allows you to take quick action and notify the necessary parties about the next step or new plan. 

5) Optimize the modular design. 

To enhance the smoothness of your project, a crucial pro tip is to integrate logistics considerations during the design phase. Working with designers and manufacturers from the earliest stages of a project can streamline the entire delivery process while also saving you time and money.

For example, using different materials to free up some weight, or optimizing module dimensions can greatly minimize your transportation costs and increase efficiency.

6) Use technology to your advantage.

Artificial intelligence seemingly is dominating nearly every headline these days. But, you don’t need to make a major investment in bleeding-edge technology to drive efficiencies in your modular transportation logistics.

For example, you can use drones or virtual reality to inspect the modules and ensure they are the right size, loaded and secured properly. Using technology like this, you can actually improve safety and reduce the risk of damage during transportation.

7) Invest in high-quality module wrapping and securing materials. 

 Don’t overlook the significance of wrapping and securing materials when transporting your modules. Some may assume that if they bypass a staging yard, they can disregard the need for durable packaging. However, this assumption is false.

If your delivery from the factory to the job site will take days or travel through different kinds of weather, the wrapping quality is just as important as if you’re storing modules at a staging yard.

 Proper wrapping ensures the modules’ protection during transportation and storage. It is essential to incorporate these considerations into your project cycle, as they can impact project costs and potentially increase your margin. Neglecting proper packing techniques could lead to damage, delays in module delivery, and additional crane time.

Learn more from our experienced modular transportation logistics team

We at Stream Modular live and breathe modular transportation logistics, and we love sharing our knowledge with the industry. Reach out with any questions you may have or advice you’re seeking, and we will be happy to be a part of the conversation. 

Stream Modular is a transportation logistics company specializing exclusively in modular construction. We help modular manufacturers and builders transport mods, pods and panels so they arrive on time and safely to the build site.

Read more:

• In Modular Building Transportation, Start Logistics Planning from the Design Phase
• Why Stream Modular?
• Bringing It Home: The Transportation and Assembly of Modular Buildings is a Science and an Art