This case study covers delivery of oversized vessel using chartered vessel to Sweden.
Cargo particulars and task
The shipment consisted of a full set of azimuth thrusters, including:
- 1 × storage tank appx. 18 m x 7 m x 7 m 25 tons
Customer turned to us to design a transport solution to move the ø7 m diameter tank from North part of Finland to Sweden. Our work was split in several phases:
- preliminary transport feasibility study based on initial drawings & configuration; recommendations for product design adjustments
- revised transport evaluation including route inspection; lifting plans; lashing & securing plans
- project execution – delivery
Scope of work
Our scope included:
- road transportation to port
- vessel chartering (underdeck stowage requirement)
- stevedoring, supervision of loading operations
- cargo securing onboard
- last mile delivery
- installation works
Key challenges
From technical point of view the main challenge was lack of lashing points available on the cargo.
To mitigate these risks, we implemented a securing concept combining:
- placing cargo on steel stools
- welding of stoppers against stools to prevent shifting
- usage of lifting lugs for tie-down lashing
Project execution
One of the key operational constraints was timing. Due to the cargo dimensions, the tank was planned for direct transshipment from the trailer into the vessel’s hold, requiring precise coordination between the road transport and the vessel’s loading schedule.
The cargo was collected from the manufacturer’s facility in the late afternoon, as the movement of oversized cargo on public roads was restricted to night-time hours. Escort vehicles accompanied the transport throughout the route to ensure safe and compliant delivery to the port.
Upon arrival at the terminal, the tank was lifted directly into the vessel’s hold and positioned on pre-installed steel stools. The cargo was then secured using a combination of welded sea fastenings and heavy-duty lashings. While the transport frame was specifically designed to minimise hot works, limited welding was still required due to the cargo geometry and the available securing arrangements on board.
At the discharge port in Sweden, the tank was unloaded by tandem lifting with mobile cranes, as no suitable quay cranes were available. In addition, the allowable ground bearing pressure on the quay was assessed in advance, and temporary load distribution mats were installed beneath the crane outriggers to ensure safe lifting operations.
We handle other oversized and heavy shipments, applying updated engineering standards.
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If you are dealing with similar cargo, feel free to get in touch.