Efret has developed a specialist out-of-gauge (OOG) European transport solution for a leading European manufacturer, moving large refuse collection vehicle bodies from Spain to the UK.

The project demonstrates our expertise in managing cross-border abnormal loads, bringing together specialist transport equipment, operational planning and in-house customs knowledge within one coordinated solution.

The challenge

The cargo consists of large refuse collection vehicle bodies, with individual units weighing approximately 6,500kg and measuring 2.53m wide and 3.3m high. Their dimensions mean specialist low-loader equipment is required rather than conventional road freight.

Moving oversized cargo between Spain and the UK requires careful coordination. Efret developed a solution encompassing specialist equipment, safe loading parameters, scheduling and the cross-border requirements associated with transporting out-of-gauge cargo between the EU and UK.

The solution also needed sufficient flexibility to accommodate different load sizes and configurations.

Specialist out-of-gauge transport from Spain to the UK

Managed by Bart Pikula, Efret’s Head of Automotive, the project combines Efret’s specialist transport capabilities with the customs expertise of its wider team.

Dedicated low-loader equipment is used to transport the units between Spain and the UK, with Efret coordinating the international road movement. Loading and unloading are undertaken by crane at origin and destination.

For cross-border abnormal loads, careful preparation is essential. Vehicle selection, cargo dimensions, loading requirements, route planning and border formalities all need to be considered as part of the overall transport solution.

Customs expertise for cross-border abnormal loads

An important element of the project is the specialist customs insight provided by Efret’s in-house team.

Rather than treating customs clearance as a separate part of the journey, Efret considers transport and customs requirements together. This coordinated approach helps ensure the necessary procedures are planned in advance and reduces the potential for unnecessary delays when moving specialist cargo between the EU and UK.

More than just specialist transport

Bart Pikula explains:

“I love a challenge and this is a great example of where Efret really adds value. It’s not simply about providing specialist transport; it’s about bringing together the right equipment, operational planning and customs expertise to deliver a complete cross-border solution for the customer.”

The project demonstrates Efret’s ability to manage out-of-gauge European transport and cross-border abnormal loads, combining specialist road transport, operational planning and customs expertise to provide customers with a complete solution for complex European freight movements.

If you have a pending out-of-gauge transport project and need some advice, get in touch with our expert team.

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