The top risks moving companies face
These tips can help reduce many of the common threats that are inherent in the moving business.
There are common risks moving companies encounter — when traveling long distances with a truck full of cargo, incidents are bound to happen. This article shares some of the most common risks a moving company might face and ways to prevent them.
Routine vehicle safety
Vehicle maintenance is vital to moving companies, as most issues generally start when maintenance is neglected. Some of it is unavoidable, as vehicles of this size are inevitably going to have their issues; however, the key to avoiding preventable incidents is by creating a system of maintenance tips that employees can easily follow.
Moving trucks are no different from personal vehicles when it comes to auto repair. Start by regularly checking safety features like seat belts, interior and exterior lighting, and signal lights; brake lights, headlights, as well as hazard flashers, are also important. Additionally, test the wipers and check the windshield washer fluid before a trip to ensure wipers don’t need to be replaced or that washer fluid doesn’t need to be topped.
From there, make sure the vehicle’s emergency equipment is on board in their expected locations. Store items like hand-operated jacks, jumper cables, hazard signage, and the spare tire in their designated places within the vehicle.
Furthermore, make sure the vehicle gets serviced at regular intervals. Oil changes, tire rotation, and overall routine maintenance checks keep vehicles running at peak performance. Also, check all other fluids like coolant and brake fluid in keeping with factory-recommendations, and regularly check tire wear, looking for signs of low tread or low air pressure.
Crime awareness and prevention
Moving vans and trucks are always packed with valuables and, unfortunately, thieves know it. It’s one of the reasons why some moving companies offer extra protection plans to their customers to keep them safe.
The first rule when securing a truck and its belongings is to avoid carelessness. Make sure at least one of the moving team members is with the truck at all times. Do so by taking turns at rest stops, gas stations, etc. This is important, as an unattended moving truck is an invitation for criminals lurking around.
Next, park the vehicle where it is visible at all times. Always be sure to lock it and park the truck where it can be seen if anything fishy is going on — parking under a street light or another well-lit area adds protection. Also, it’s important to not separate the cab from the trailer and to check on both regularly.
Work in teams
Teams of two make the moving process much easier. Having two team members ensures that the truck is continually watched, and it also offers an extra set of hands when it comes to loading and unloading.
Sharing drive time is another huge advantage of assigning multiple team members, especially on long trips. Not only does conversation help the driver stay awake and alert, but the extra pair of eyes might spot potential trouble.
Adverse road conditions and inclement weather
Road repair and inclement weather also contribute significantly to many moving van accidents. Some of the most difficult driving for large vehicles is encountered during road construction. Slower speeds, reading and following directional signs, as well as narrow lanes and detours can all alleviate potentially dangerous and even deadly accidents.
As for inclement weather, proper preparation for the driving climate has the potential to be life-saving. Prepare by checking the weather for the predetermined route and double-check that all necessities needed to travel during those conditions are packed. For example, if extreme winter weather is predicted, keep blankets, food, and water on board. Although it’s always a great idea to store extra non-perishable food and water while on the road, this is especially true during cold winter months. On the other hand, always check and test the AC in the cab and keep engine coolant on board for those simmering summer months.
Operator and partner comfort are not only concerns for moving companies but also for the customers, who have entrusted moving companies with their earthly possessions and family treasures. Preparing to protect that cargo is also part of the process.
How well a moving company protects and takes care of its clients’ belongings directly determines whether it earns a solid, reputable image to the public or not.
Taking these precautions can greatly enhance both the driver’s and cargo’s safety, as well as reduce so many of the common threats that are inherited in the moving company business. After all, reliability is a key component of every moving company striving to establish a solid reputation.
