Infographic: Planning Modular Transportation Logistics

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Transportation logistics might be among the final phases of your modular construction project, but it is arguably one of the most important. So much more than loading modules on a truck, planning modular transportation logistics involves proactively coordinating a myriad of different processes and procedures so your modules can get to their final destination safely and on time. If not done correctly or punctually, it can compromise your budget and timeline. 

In this article, we will outline the key stages in transportation logistics planning and their significance in your modular construction project’s lifecycle. One point that we cannot emphasize enough: To ensure a smooth and successful project, it is vital to engage your logistics partner right from the beginning. Each stage of the project impacts the next, and the early involvement of a trusted partner can greatly enhance the chances of achieving overall project success. With that in mind, this is how we at Stream Modular approach planning modular transportation logistics.

Planning Modular Transportation Logistics

To simplify the understanding of this complex process, we have created an accompanying downloadable infographic that visually illustrates each stage of transportation logistics planning and highlights its importance in the lifecycle of your modular construction project.

Stage 1: The Pre-Planning Construction Phase

Before beginning any modular construction project, you need to determine your budget and timeline. Having a precise picture of those details sets the foundation for the entire project, so it’s crucial to be as accurate as possible. You will need to gather the following high-level details:

1) Modular count

Identify the number of modules you are transporting to the build site. You will need to know exactly  how much capacity to reserve, and we’ll need to start planning the sequence of delivery, which can impact how and where you store your modules. Ideally, you will have considered transportation logistics from the design phase, so your modules will be as simple and efficient to transport as possible. 

2) Applicable dimensions

Determine the EXACT dimensions of the modules to ensure compatibility with transportation and installation requirements. We emphasize the word exact because we have seen people misstep here. Dimensions include any volume associated with each module — such as an air conditioning unit or exhaust pipe sticking out the side. These dimensions affect the permitting and routing required, so accuracy is crucial. 

3) Weight

Understand the exact weight of the modules to arrange appropriate handling equipment, route, and transportation methods. Note that we’re using the word “exact” here again: that includes the fully outfitted module, plus any extra weight of the packaging and securing materials. Any misinformation or omission could make your transportation permits null and void or possibly prevent the trucks from being able to follow the planned route, setting you back in time and spend.

4) Delivery model

Decide on the delivery model, whether utilizing a staging yard or opting for just-in-time delivery, based on project timelines and constraints. Some questions to ask in order to make that determination:

Yes, I need a staging yard because…

• There’s no room. My job site isn’t ready to receive the modules, but we need space in the factory.
• We need a buffer. A staging yard allows us to keep the modules close to the job site and move quickly when needed, like having mods ready to go so the crew isn’t waiting to install when they’re ready.
• We need to be agile. Timelines and set pace can change throughout a project. A staging yard near the jobsite allows for more agile adjustments to the delivery pace. 

No, I don’t need a staging yard because…

• There is a convenient shipping location: If the factory is located near the job siteit may be easy to directly transport the modules without the need for a staging yard. This saves time and eliminates the need for an intermediate storage yard.
• We have just-in-time delivery: In some cases, a modular construction project may follow a just-in-time delivery approach. This means that modules are manufactured and transported to the construction site precisely when they are needed. With careful coordination and planning, the modules can be delivered directly to the site without the need for storage in a staging yard.
• There are on-site storage capabilities: If the construction site has ample space and suitable facilities to temporarily store the modules, such as a designated area or laydown yard, a separate staging yard may not be required. The modules can be delivered and stored on-site until they are ready to be installed, minimizing the need for off-site storage and associated logistics.

In these scenarios, the absence of a staging yard can simplify the transportation logistics, save costs, and streamline the overall construction process.

With these details in mind, we can then work to reserve capacity with carriers that meet those requirements. Your logistics partner should also have a network of carriers that they trust and have worked with before, so they can match their experience and knowledge with your components.

Stage 2: Active Preparation

Once the pre-planning phase is complete, your team should start actively preparing to transport your modules. The goal of this phase is to create a very specific plan of how all of the modules will get to the build site, coordinating all of the resources you’ll need — e.g. equipment, labor — to ensure they arrive safely and on time. 

1) Module details

Work closely with Stream Modular or your logistics partner to provide precise information about the modules you gathered from stage 1, including dimensions, weight, and module count. If any changes have happened since stage 1, make sure to convey that information and determine if that will impact any coordination or efforts that have already happened. 

2) Equipment 

Identify and secure the appropriate equipment that will ensure seamless transportation and delivery processes. This includes trailers, cribbing, and handling equipment — down to the type of hitch the carrier will need. Your logistics company will also determine whether your modules will need to be loaded onto the trailers with a specialized hydraulic carrier or via some other method, such as a Combilift straddle carrier or a crane. 

3) Project flow details

This step is all about coordinating with a precise schedule. Determine the timing, cadence, critical dates, and the module and equipment’s availability for pickup to optimize project management and streamline operations.

4) Compliance coordination

Collaborate with Stream Modular or your logistics partner to handle compliance-related tasks such as filing permits, arranging escorts (if required), and conducting site and route surveys to ensure a smooth project execution.

Note: If you haven’t already, this is a critical time to involve your logistics partner, such as Stream Modular in planning modular transportation logistics. This is where we find our experience is crucial to driving efficiencies — not to mention, preventing potential problems or roadblocks or making a plan to work around them.

Stage 3: Project Management

Following the active preparation phase, the project transitions into the management stage. Stream Modular assumes full control of the project, ensuring the successful, on-time delivery of every module. The key objectives of project management in modular transport include:

1) Project flow

Stream Modular establishes a clear project flow, outlining the sequence of tasks and milestones in the successful delivery of the modules to the build site. This ensures efficient communication and coordination throughout the project lifecycle.

2) Communication

Effective communication is vital for project success, so, during this phase, we are constantly speaking with our drivers and onsite teams. With real-time GPS tracking, we know exactly where our trucks are at all times, and we stand ready to make a plan if delays occur or something unexpected pops up. Particularly for just-in-time deliveries when trucks are going directly to the site, it’s crucial we know when the site is ready for each load — a typical modular delivery is not of the size that can just pull over and wait, after all!  Stream Modular provides tracking and regular updates, keeping all stakeholders informed about the progress and any potential changes or challenges. 

3) Execution

On-time delivery and proper sequencing of modules are essential for project success. Stream Modular ensures timely execution and adapts to changes in schedule, if needed, to mitigate delays caused by weather, construction, or changes in setting pace.

The key to planning modular transportation logistics? The right partner

From pre-planning to execution, you can confidently navigate the challenges and complexities of any modular construction project with the right logistics partner by your side from the beginning of planning modular transportation logistics. Engaging Stream Modular is an indispensable step toward project success, rooted in smooth coordination, timely execution, and seamless delivery. 

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:

• 3 Pro Tips for Offloading Prefabricated Modular Buildings More Efficiently
• Startup Modular Factories Should Consider Logistics in Operational Decisions
• How Our Hydraulic Carriers are Custom-Built for Modular Transport