Volumetric Construction: Overcoming Transportation Challenges

The importance of transportation in volumetric construction

The transport of large, heavy, valuable mods from the factory to the construction site requires careful planning and execution. Planning is essential to ensure safe and timely delivery while minimizing disruptions to production schedules, on-site operations, and budgetary considerations. In this article, we will explore some of the common transportation challenges in volumetric construction and discuss strategies to overcome them.

What is volumetric construction

Volumetric construction, or volumetric modular construction, is a type of modular construction in which builders stack and join factory-finished and prefabricated modules at the build site to form a complete building. Benefits of this construction method include reduced construction schedules, increased consistency and quality, and better budget control, among others.

It is important to note the difference between modular construction and volumetric construction. While modular construction involves assembling pre-fabricated components on-site, volumetric construction takes it to the next step by delivering fully functional modules (often including furniture and fixtures) to the site, simplifying the building process.

Common logistical challenges in volumetric construction and how to overcome them

Efficient transportation leads to time and cost savings. You can minimize fuel consumption and reduce overall project expenses by optimizing routes and utilizing the appropriate carriers for module transport. Moreover, efficient logistics planning allows for better coordination between suppliers and contractors involved in the project. However, some common transportation challenges occur frequently in volumetric construction.

Route planning, accessibility, and infrastructure 

Volumetric modules are often large and bulky, making them over dimensional and subject to additional costs, escort vehicles, and permitting. Modules may need to travel through narrow roads, bridges, or tunnels that are not designed for oversized loads. Limited access points, weight restrictions on bridges, and a lack of appropriate loading and unloading facilities can significantly hinder transportation, causing delays in construction or increased costs. Finally, there are permitting requirements along many routes that you need to plan for in advance. These aspects of the transportation route can be a challenge when shipping modules from a factory to a build site.

Secure strapping and handling 

Volumetric modules need to withstand the rigors of transportation, often across long distances. Proper securing of modules is vital to preventing damage during transit.  Moreover, weather and road conditions can present significant challenges during transportation, impacting both the module and the transport vehicle, particularly in the case of long-distance deliveries. Navigating through narrow roads, one-way streets, congestion, or construction can significantly affect the timely delivery of modular units, adding to the challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions.

On-time and sequential order delivery 

Efficient transportation of modules from the factory is crucial. It requires speed, punctuality, and precise sequencing to prevent delays and potential cost increases to the project.The  proper modules need to be delivered in the anticipated order to avoid congestion in the construction area. Additionally, they need to arrive exactly as predicted — neither too early nor too late in the project timeline — to avoid downtime on the build site. 

Solutions for safe and secure transport of volumetric modules

Route planning, accessibility, and infrastructure 

Engaging with local authorities and volumetric transportation specialists early in the project can help identify potential roadblocks and find suitable routing alternatives when any come up — saving you time and money. This proactive approach ensures that any necessary permitting, road modifications, or temporary route diversions are planned well in advance to avoid delays and complications during transportation.

Secure wrapping and handling 

Implementing robust quality control measures at the factory can help ensure module integrity during transportation. Beyond that, you’ll want to ensure your modules are transported with correct strapping and exact measurements — and that your factories and staging yards are equipped with the best cribbing materials for your project. 

In addition, if you’re working with a logistics specialist, they can help to ensure the carrier and crew implement proper handling procedures. Furthermore, investing in specialized lifting equipment can minimize the risk of accidents and damages. Finally, account for weather forecasts with weather monitoring systems and backup plans in case of adverse weather conditions and adequately protect against weather elements during transportation.

Timeliness and accuracy solutions

A project manager can coordinate and manage the transportation timeline without missing any key points in the process. You will also want to create transit buffers or have a nearby staging yard to avoid delays. 

 A good option is to bring in an experienced professional to lead the coordination. Transportation professionals can ensure the smooth and efficient transit of volumetric modules by engaging with transportation authorities, optimizing module design, planning suitable routes, ensuring secure wrapping, and accounting for other unforeseen delays that can occur.

Successful volumetric construction projects with Stream Modular

Transportation challenges in volumetric construction can be daunting but can be overcome successfully with careful planning and coordination. At Stream Modular, we leverage our experience to implement best practices to ensure efficient, on-time delivery of your modules, such as:

• Assigning a single project manager to coordinate the project as a whole;
• Conducting a site survey to check out potential stumbling blocks and to establish team communication;
• Creating transit buffers to ensure just-in-time delivery;
• Or having a nearby staging yard to avoid delays;
• Working with manufacturers from the design phase to help plan for easier transportation.

Consult with logistics specialists experienced in overcoming the transportation challenges in volumetric construction to safely simplify and streamline your modules shipping process.

Read more: 

• 7 Tips for Modular Transportation
• Perfecting Modular Construction Plans
• Pros and Cons of Different Trailer Types

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.