Delivery Route, Crane and Set-Site Planning

Module dimensions, weight, turning movements, bridge capacity, overhead obstacles and crane geometry can determine whether a design can reach the lot.

Reviewed for destination-code contextInternational with U.S. and Canadian emphasis
Permanent-home context: This guide uses “modular home” for a code-compliant building made as three-dimensional modules, transported to a permanent site and assembled on an approved foundation. It does not use the term as a synonym for a trailer, mobile home or HUD-code manufactured home.

Survey the complete route

The carrier should review road widths, curves, grades, bridges, culverts, overhead lines, seasonal restrictions and final approach. A route that works for ordinary trucks may not work for a long, wide module.

Permits and escorts can vary by route and date. Construction detours or utility work can invalidate an earlier assumption.

Plan the crane operation

The crane contractor needs module weights, lifting points, set sequence, radius, ground bearing and available setup area. Outrigger loads may require engineered mats or ground improvement.

Keep the public, neighbours and workers outside the lifting zone. Traffic control, utility shutdowns and temporary road closures should be assigned in writing.

Provide a fallback plan

Weather, equipment failure or site conditions can delay a set. Identify secure staging or storage and a method to protect modules if they cannot be placed immediately.

Delivery responsibility should include damage reporting, insurance and authority to stop unsafe work.

Apply this guide to a real project

For delivery route, crane and set-site planning, create a dated project note tied to the destination address and current drawing revision. Identify the authority, designer, factory or contractor responsible for each unresolved item. Attach the written evidence for ‘Has the actual carrier reviewed the route?’ and ‘Are module dimensions and weights confirmed for the final design?’ rather than recording a verbal assurance.

Before a deposit, production release, shipment or final payment, convert every open question into a named action with an owner and deadline. Keep superseded drawings and decisions in the record so later inspectors, lenders, insurers and future owners can understand why the completed house differs from an early sales plan.

Questions to resolve before proceeding

  • Has the actual carrier reviewed the route?
  • Are module dimensions and weights confirmed for the final design?
  • Has the crane contractor approved setup and ground conditions?
  • Where can modules wait safely if the set is delayed?
Stop point: Do not rely on map software or a casual drive-through as the delivery-access review.

Primary references to check