The Importance of Choosing the Correct Moving Solution
There are many factors to consider when designing a moving solution. The size, shape, weight distribution, the size of the crew, and floor surfaces all have an impact on transit, and understanding these variables is key to ensuring a smooth move.
There is another factor to consider that has less to do with the load itself: maneuverability. In the world of industrial lifting, maneuverability refers to the ease with which a load can be steered or directed while in motion. Maneuverability is determined by the dolly or machine skate. Some dollies are best for 90-degree turns and straight paths of travel, while others are omnidirectional, offering 360-degree maneuverability, lateral movement, and diagonal shifts.
Why Maneuverability Matters: The Millwright Mile
Millwrights and riggers are experts at moving large, heavy, and awkwardly-shaped equipment through extremely tight spaces. This community of skilled professionals often refer to the “millwright mile,” jargon for leeway of an inch or more. For experienced millwrights and riggers, having even an inch of wiggle room when moving a large piece of equipment feels like plenty of additional space to maneuver. “Wow, we’ve got a millwright mile to make this turn!”
The concept of the millwright mile illustrates the importance of maneuverability when choosing a dolly or machine skate system. In many situations, such as tight, crowded hallways and narrow doorways, there truly are just inches of margin to work with. Proper planning and a strong understanding of the path of transit is key to designing a solution with enough maneuverability for a smooth, successful move—whereas choosing a moving solution without the appropriate level of maneuverability can result in a failed move.
Maneuverability Considerations
When it comes to dolly maneuverability, there are two primary factors to consider: path flexibility and facility constraints.
Path Flexibility
In some cases, there are multiple ways to travel from Point A to Point B. This allows crews to evaluate a few different paths of travel and determine their best option based on the size and shape of the load and the widths of hallways and doorways.
In some scenarios, however, there is only one option for traveling from Point A to Point B—and it may not be ideal. Narrow pathways and multiple tight turns can make for a challenging move. However, understanding these challenges ahead of time allows crews to design a moving solution that makes the process as smooth as possible.
Another factor to consider when it comes to path flexibility is the longevity of the solution. An ideal moving path may be available today, but future construction projects, rearrangements, and other changes can make it inaccessible in the future.
Facility Constraints
Some facilities have wide hallways and doorways and clear paths throughout. Others are crowded, with tight pathways, narrow doorways, and sharp turns. A moving solution that works well in one facility may be less practical in another. Understanding the constraints of the facility is key to choosing the right solution.
GKS Moving Solutions
GKS is proud to offer two different moving solutions, each of which offer advantages for certain types of moves.
F/L 3-Point Systems
GKS three-point dolly systems are an excellent moving option for many scenarios. A three-point system is composed of a lead dolly, or L-dolly, with a 360-degree steering pad and a following dolly, or F-dolly, that supports the back of the load. The maneuverability of a GKS three-point machine skate system might be compared to a semi-truck: It can navigate a 90-degree turn easily, thanks to the steering pad on the L-dolly, but, depending on the setting, it may need a little extra space.
A three-point dolly system is an excellent option for moving cargo in and out of facilities and navigating long aisles. F/L dollies give users maximum control over the direction of travel. Additionally, three-point dolly systems are among the most cost-effective industrial moving solutions, making them a practical option for many users.
RL Rotating Dollies
For situations that call for the highest degree of maneuverability and lateral movement, rotating dollies, also called omni-directional dollies or omni skates, are an excellent option. A rotating dolly system from GKS has 360-degree maneuverability, so the load can travel forward, backward, sideways, and diagonally. Additionally, both ends of the load can be manipulated, giving crews tremendous flexibility when navigating compact spaces and sharp turns.
The primary drawback to a rotating dolly system is a tendency to drift a little when navigating long, straight pathways, over fifty feet or more. However, this can be mitigated: A team member can stay close to the rear end of the load and readjust for drift.
Find the Right Moving Solution With GKS
If you’re ready to invest in a dolly with excellent maneuverability, but you’d like some help choosing the right one, GKS Moving & Lifting Solutions can help. Our US-based customer service team will collaborate with you to understand your needs and goals, so you can make a confident purchase that will last you for years to come. Every GKS dolly comes with a five-year warranty, and every unit undergoes thorough testing before it leaves our facility to ensure that it will perform exactly as designed.
