Transporting heavy machinery is one of the most high-risk logistical tasks in the construction and civil industries. Whether it’s an excavator, track machine, roller, generator, or industrial plant, a single oversight during transport can create safety hazards, compliance issues, costly delays, or damage to expensive equipment.
At OTS Group, we see the same preventable mistakes across worksites throughout New Zealand — often made when contractors try to save time or cut costs. In reality, these shortcuts almost always lead to even greater expenses.
Here are the five most common mistakes contractors make when moving heavy machinery — and how partnering with a specialist like OTS Group helps avoid them.
1. Using the Wrong Transport Equipment
The Problem
Not all trucks and trailers are designed for heavy or oversized machinery. Many delays and damages come from trying to force equipment onto platforms that aren’t suitable — such as standard flatbeds that can’t accommodate the weight distribution or loading angles of tracked machinery.
Using the wrong equipment can lead to:
- Machine instability while loading
- Overloading axles or suspension
- Damage to undercarriages or hydraulic components
- Off-balance loads that are unsafe on the road
The Solution
OTS Group’s Machinery Transport service uses purpose-built units including:
- Low loaders for large or tall machinery
- Hydraulic tilt trays for quick, safe loading
- Heavy-duty flatbeds for robust and oversized equipment
- Specialised tracked machine transport setups
By matching each machine to the correct transport platform, we ensure loading is safe, fast, and compliant.
2. Incorrect or Unsafe Load Restraint
The Problem
Load restraint isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement under NZTA and WorkSafe guidelines. Yet many contractors still rely on incorrect or worn tie-downs, or they assume “it should be fine for a short trip.”
Poor load restraint can cause:
- Shifting during braking
- Equipment falling or tipping
- Hydraulic leaks or structural damage
- Severe safety risks for the public and workers
The Solution
OTS Group uses certified load restraint systems designed specifically for heavy plant. Our operators follow established procedures, ensuring:
- Tie-down points meet legal standards
- Correct tensioning for each load
- Extra restraints are used for attachments
- Pre-trip checks confirm stability
This ensures your machinery stays secure from start to finish — even during emergency braking or rough road conditions.
3. Failing to Plan for Oversize or Overweight Compliance
The Problem
Many machines in New Zealand exceed standard transport limits for width, weight, or axle loads. Contractors often underestimate the paperwork, routes, and timing restrictions required to legally move oversize machinery.
Common issues include:
- Missing or incorrect oversize permits
- Restricted route points (e.g., bridges or tight corners)
- Time-of-day restrictions for wide loads
- Underestimating pilot vehicle requirements
The Solution
As specialists in Tracked Machine Transport and oversize logistics, OTS Group handles:
- NZTA oversize permits
- Route assessments
- Pilot/escort vehicle arrangements
- Compliance documentation
We ensure every move meets NZ standards — protecting contractors from delays, fines, or halted movements.
4. Underestimating Site Access Challenges
The Problem
Not all delivery sites are created equal. Soft ground, steep access, tight corners, and unstable surfaces can make delivery dangerous or impossible. The result? Machinery stuck in the wrong place, wasted time, and expensive recovery.
Many access failures happen because:
- The truck isn’t suitable for the terrain
- The machine can’t be unloaded safely
- No pre-site inspection was completed
- Contractors assume any truck can reach any site
The Solution
OTS Group has extensive experience delivering into challenging locations. When access is limited, we deploy:
- Track machines to assist with movement
- Alternative delivery strategies
- Specialist operators skilled in difficult terrain
Our nationwide experience means fewer surprises — and fewer costly delays for contractors.
5. Choosing Transport Providers Based on Price Alone
The Problem
In an effort to “save money,” some contractors choose the cheapest transport option available. Unfortunately, this often leads to:
- Equipment arriving late
- Inexperienced operators
- Safety shortcuts
- Inadequate insurance coverage
- Damage during loading or transit
The cost of repairing a damaged excavator, replacing shattered windows, or delaying a project far outweighs the minor savings of a cheaper transport provider.
The Solution
Contractors across NZ choose OTS Group because we combine reliability, safety, and competitive pricing. Our Business Solutions also support companies that move machinery frequently, providing:
- Dedicated scheduling
- Clear communication
- Consistent service levels
- Reduced downtime through efficient routing
It’s not just transport — it’s a partnership built around keeping your projects running smoothly.
Avoiding These Mistakes Saves Time, Money, and Stress
Heavy machinery transport is a specialised field, and even small errors can lead to major disruptions. By working with an experienced provider like OTS Group, contractors can avoid the most common mistakes — and ensure their machinery arrives safely, on time, and ready to work.
Whether you’re moving a single excavator or coordinating multiple machines across NZ, our team can help streamline the entire process.
Book Safe, Reliable Machinery Transport Today
Call 0800 22 00 33 or contact OTS Group to arrange specialist machinery transport anywhere in New Zealand.