Introduction (keyword‑led)
heavy machinery removals to Czech Republic require more than a truck and a few straps. From factory floor to a tight Prague city offload, success is engineered through measured surveys, signed RAMS, the right lift method, and a transport configuration that actually fits the route. This playbook turns complex industrial moves into a practical, step‑by‑step plan—from decommissioning and cranage to delivery, placement, and recommissioning—so you control risk, time and total cost of execution.
Who this guide is for
Plant/operations managers, project engineers, procurement, H&S leads, and site supervisors planning an international machinery move to Czechia.
What you’ll get in minutes
- A clear measurement checklist (doors, lifts, floors, gradients, overheads) you can copy into your site brief.
- A plain‑English RAMS & Lift Plan framework to align OEM, crane company and your facility team.
- A quick trailer & rigging selector (low‑loader, extendable, SPMT/MAFI; Hiab, gantry, Versa‑Lift).
- A practical permit pathway for oversize/overweight, municipal bays and cranes, including escort triggers.
- A simple protection matrix (export wrap, VCI, barrier bags, shock/tilt indicators) to match asset risk.
At‑a‑glance project map
| Phase | What this guide helps you decide |
|---|---|
| Survey | Exactly what to measure and photograph to avoid rework |
| RAMS & Lift Plan | Lifting points, CoG, exclusion zones, appointed roles |
| Permits & access | Which permits you’ll likely need and when to book them |
| Transport | Trailer configuration that fits height/weight/length limits |
| Protection | When to crate, wrap, use VCI and condition sensors |
| Delivery & placement | Last‑mile plan: shuttle/Hiab/gantry/Versa‑Lift mix |
| Recommissioning | Roles, sequence, tests and sign‑off documents |
Get an engineered move plan → Removals to the Czech Republic | See city access basics → Moving to Prague tips
TL:DR;
- Start with a measured site survey: floor loads, door/lift sizes, route gradients, overhead lines — capture photos and exact dimensions.
- Produce a RAMS + Lift Plan: agree lifting points, CoG, rigging, exclusion zones, radio comms and sign‑offs.
- Choose the right trailer (low‑loader, semi‑low, extendable, modular SPMT/MAFI) and, where needed, Hiab/gantry/Versa‑Lift for placement.
- Lock permits early: oversize/overweight, municipal bays, timed windows; plan escort vehicles where thresholds require them.
- Protect the asset: export wrap/VCI, moisture barrier, shock/tilt sensors, and certified crating for glass, marble and instrumentation.
- Control cost drivers: tonnage, dimensions, crane/gantry hours, route constraints, access complexity, waiting time.
- Stage the project: decommission → remove → transport → place → commission, with OEM involvement and documented sign‑offs at each step.
Scope: what counts as “heavy machinery” (with handling notes)
The term covers bulky, high‑mass, or high‑value assets that demand engineered handling. Use the tables and notes below as a planning lens—final specs are always confirmed via survey and RAMS.
Category overview (handling highlights)
| Asset category | Typical mass/dims (indicative) | Risk focus | Handling highlights |
| CNC centres / lathes | 2–18 t; long beds | CoG offset; pitch/tilt | Toe‑jacks + skates; Versa‑Lift; shock sensors |
| Injection moulding machines | 5–40 t; tall frames | Height, oil/fluid drain | Gantry lift or mobile crane; frame bracing |
| Press brakes / stamping | 8–60 t; wide | Floor point loads | Modular skates; engineered spreader beams |
| Transformers / switchgear | 3–30 t | Fragility, moisture | Rigging spreaders; moisture barrier + VCI |
| Chillers / HVAC plants | 1–12 t; large footprint | Coil protection | Crane/Hiab; corner boards; lift plan by roof |
| Printing lines | Multi‑piece; 1–8 t/section | Alignment | Sequential removal; coded wiring/labels |
| Lab/medical equipment | 0.5–5 t | Shock/vibration | Custom crates; air‑ride trailers; temp control |
All figures are indicative; your RAMS confirms exact method, limits and equipment.
Access & floor‑loading — quick references (heuristics, not structural calcs)
| Category | Typical clearance bottlenecks | Floor‑load sensitivity | Preferred placement aids |
| CNC centres / lathes | Door width ≥ 1.4–1.6 m; long bed turns in corridors | High at feet/bed; spread loads | Versa‑Lift, toe‑jacks + skates; steel plates |
| Injection moulding | Lift/door height; mezzanine edges | High at columns/feet | Hydraulic gantry; mobile/city crane |
| Press brakes / stamping | Width at door; shallow lift cabins | High point loads | Modular skates; spreader beams; cribbing |
| Transformers/switchgear | Turning radius in plant rooms | Medium–High; moisture risk | Spreaders; air‑ride; moisture barrier + VCI |
| Chillers/HVAC | Roof edges; crane radius | Medium; coil protection | City crane; corner boards; roof plan |
| Printing lines | Section lengths vs corridor bends | Medium | Sequential sectioning; coded wiring |
| Lab/medical | Clean‑room access; lift vibration | Medium (shock‑sensitive) | Custom crates; air‑ride; temp control |
Always verify floor ratings with facilities/structural engineering. Where point loads exceed ratings, we use steel plates/cribbing or alternative lift methods.
Category‑specific constraints & fixes (examples)
- CNCs: Long beds can “tail‑swing” on turns; mitigate with intermediate dollies and corner protection.
- Injection moulders: Drain oils/water circuits; brace tall frames; watch sprue cutter projections.
- Presses/brakes: Check pit covers and trench grates; use spreader beams to balance asymmetric loads.
- Transformers: Maintain dry chain; avoid condensation; use tilt/shock indicators.
- Chillers: Roof lifts require ground‑bearing checks for crane outriggers; plan weather windows.
- Printing lines: Label cables and reel media paths; align sections during placement.
- Lab/medical: Temperature and shock controls; confirm clean‑room gowning and access rules.
What to send with your RFQ (speeds up engineering & permitting)
- Asset list with L×W×H, weight, CoG notes and known lifting points (drawings/photos).
- Floor plans with door/lift sizes, corridor widths, turning radii and floor load ratings where known.
- Utilities isolation requirements (power, pneumatics, hydraulics, water, data) and fluid types/volumes.
- Site photos/video: street/kerbside, entrances, lift cabins/doors, stairs/ramps, roof access.
- Origin/destination postcodes and preferred windows; any building quiet‑hour rules.
- Special risks (glass/marble, metrology, clean‑room) needing crating/VCI/air‑ride.
Book a technical survey → Removals to the Czech Republic

Pre‑move engineering: survey, RAMS & lift planning
Before a spanner turns, confirm clear data. Use this engineered checklist to align origin and destination teams.
1) Survey inputs (measure twice)
- Measured access (both sites): door/lift apertures, corridor widths, turning radii, ramp gradients, threshold heights, kerb‑to‑door distance, roof access paths.
- Floor loads: published kN/m² and any point‑load limits near columns/pits; note slab joints.
- Utilities isolation: electricity (lock‑out/tag‑out), pneumatics, hydraulics, water, drainage, data; fluid drain/containment volumes and MSDS where relevant.
- CoG & lifting points: OEM drawings/photos, labelled eye‑bolts/lugs; approve test lifts if CoG is uncertain.
- Environmental factors: weather exposure at lift site, wind corridors on roofs, nearby overhead lines/trees.
- Traffic management: approach routes, turning space, bay suspensions, escort vehicle rendezvous.
2) RAMS (Risk Assessment & Method Statement) — practical outline
- Scope & roles: Appointed Person (AP), Lift Supervisor, Slinger/Signaller, Banksman, Driver, Rigger‑in‑charge.
- Hazards: pinch/crush zones, suspended loads, CoG shift during pick, slip/trip, voltage/exposed services, hot works, weather.
- Controls: exclusion zones, barriers, tag lines, radio protocols, PPE, tooling checks, stop‑work criteria.
- Sequence: decommission → pre‑rig → lift → load/securing → transport → offload → placement → handover.
- Emergency plan: equipment failure, first‑aid/eye‑wash, spill kit, emergency contacts and egress routes.
3) Lift Plan essentials (cranage/gantry)
- Rigging diagram with WLL for every component; sling angles (α) and D/d ratios considered.
- Cranes/gantries: capacity at working radius; load chart margin applied; outrigger/track bearing pressures calculated with mat size.
- Weather limits: planned operating wind limits and gust thresholds; define postpone/cancel triggers.
- Pick & set locations: ground‑bearing verification, exclusion zones, banksman positions, tag‑line use.
- Lifting lugs: inspection records or OEM confirmation; no ad‑hoc picks without sign‑off.
4) Day‑of comms & change control
- Channels: radios on a dedicated channel; agreed hand signals as backup.
- Briefings: 10‑minute toolbox talk covering today’s RAMS, routes, roles, weather, stop rules.
- Change triggers (stop & re‑brief): actual weight deviates materially, wind exceeds limit, access differs from survey, rigging substitutes, medical/near‑miss event.
- Daily log: lift timings, weather, crew list, deviations and approvals.
5) Pre‑lift checklists (origin & destination)
- Origin: isolation certificates, drained lines, covers removed, floor/door protection laid, rigging staged, photos taken.
- Transport: trailer match to dimensions/weight, load‑secure devices, shock/tilt sensors applied where required.
- Destination: permits/bays visible, goods‑lift/roof access booked, floor plates placed, final position marked/level checked.
- Documentation pack: RAMS, Lift Plan, certs for cranes/rigging, inductions, toolbox talk attendance, insurance details.
Mini table — who signs what (expanded)
| Document/Record | Owner | Sign‑off/Attendance |
| RAMS (Risk Assessment & Method Statement) | Move coordinator | Client H&S / site manager |
| Lift Plan (cranage/gantry) | Appointed Person | Crane company + client |
| Permits (traffic/parking) | Coordinator | Municipality/industrial park |
| Isolation certificates | Client/OEM | Facilities/engineering |
| Toolbox talk register | Lift Supervisor | All crew + client rep (present) |
| Ground‑bearing / mat calc (if crane) | Crane company/AP | Client H&S |
| Pre‑lift checklist (O/D) | Crew lead | Client rep |
| Handover/placement certificate | Crew lead | Client engineering/OEM |
Align survey, RAMS and Lift Plan with one request → Removals to the Czech Republic | See city access examples → Moving to Prague tips
Permits & regulations (practical, non‑legal)
This is a practical overview, not legal advice. We coordinate typical requirements and keep the paperwork tidy so the crew can focus on the lift.
What we typically arrange
- Oversize/overweight road permissions across Czech routes and any transit countries, plus escort vehicles where thresholds are exceeded.
- Municipal permits / temporary loading‑bay suspensions in Prague, Brno, Plzeň and other cities; timed windows in heritage zones.
- Crane siting & pavement protection (on‑street lifts): ground‑bearing verification, outrigger mat calculations, exclusion‑zone barriers.
- Traffic management where needed: stop/go control, temporary road closures, diversion signage.
- Noise/working‑hours waivers where allowed; otherwise we schedule within local quiet‑hour rules.
- International origin (e.g., UK): coordination of customs steps (e.g., reliefs/carnet/temporary import where applicable) with your broker; always verify on official sources.
Permit matrix (planning guide — non‑legal)
| Permit/type | When it’s typically needed | Issued/approved by | Suggested lead time* | What we need from you |
| Oversize/Overweight (road) | Load exceeds local width/height/weight limits | Road authorities (CZ + transit) | Early application recommended (varies by route/load) | Exact L×W×H, weight/axle loads, drawings/photos, route end‑points |
| Escort vehicles | Authority or route mandates pilot cars/police | Authorities / certified escort providers | Align with road permit | Final dims/weight; preferred dates/windows |
| Municipal bay suspension / loading bay | Kerbside space near site needed | City/municipality | Apply ahead of delivery window | Address pin, dates/times, bay length, site contact |
| Crane siting / pavement protection | Crane on public highway/footway | Municipality + traffic dept. | Align with crane booking | Crane model, radius & load chart, mat/ground‑bearing data |
| Temporary road closure / TM plan | Street too narrow or complex | Municipality / police / TM provider | Align with permit window | Site plan, diversion route, steward numbers |
| Noise/working‑hours waiver | Out‑of‑hours lifts in sensitive zones | Municipality / building mgmt | Case‑by‑case | Justification, schedule, mitigation steps |
*Lead times vary by authority and season; earlier is always better. We confirm current requirements during booking.
Booking flow (how we do it)
- Desktop route check → height/weight pinch points, bridge data, city rules.
- Stakeholder map → identify which municipality/authorities and any industrial‑park rules.
- Applications → submit drawings, dimensions, load charts, traffic‑management plan where needed.
- Crane siting & ground‑bearing → mat size and positions approved; exclusion zone mapped.
- Confirmations pack → all permits + timings compiled; driver and site receive copies and display instructions.
- Day‑of compliance → signage/barriers in place; permits displayed; photo log.
What can delay approvals (and how to avoid it)
- Incomplete dimensions/weights → share accurate L×W×H, axle loadings, CoG notes and photos early.
- Out‑of‑date drawings → confirm the exact variant and any attachments (guards, feeders, cabinets).
- Event days/festivals → central Prague/Brno often restrict operations; consider night or mid‑week slots or a shuttle plan.
- Conflicting works → roadworks or building sites sharing kerb space; reserve longer bays or adjust delivery sequence.
- Weather (cranes) → wind/gust limits may force re‑timing; keep a fallback day.
Day‑of checklist (non‑legal)
- Permits and municipal notices displayed in windscreen/at bay; time‑stamped photos taken.
- Exclusion zone/barriers installed; spotters/banksmen in position; radios tested.
- Crane mats placed per plan; ground‑bearing confirmed; utilities/overhead lines re‑checked.
- Traffic plan live: diversion signs, marshals, contact list; emergency access maintained.
- Noise: adhere to agreed windows or waiver; neighbours/concierge informed.
- Contingency: secondary bay or shuttle van location ready if primary space is blocked.
We are not a law firm and don’t provide legal advice. We coordinate common permit workflows and partner with local authorities and traffic‑management providers to keep your lift compliant and on time.
We’ll handle the permit path and time windows → Removals to the Czech Republic | City access tips → Moving to Prague tips
Rigging & lifting equipment — what we bring and when
Right tool, right risk. Your lift plan decides the final mix — below is a deeper selector with pairing guidance and day‑of controls.
Method selector (overview)
| Method | Best for | Pros | Watch‑outs |
| Versa‑Lift (high‑capacity forklift) | 10–30 t indoor placements | Precise, compact | Floor loads; mast height |
| Hydraulic gantry | Tall/fragile frames; confined lifts | No roof crane needed | Requires engineered track & cribbing |
| Mobile/city crane | Rooftop/chiller lifts; street picks | Fast; high reach | Outrigger pressure; weather windows |
| Toe‑jacks + skates | Millimetre indoor moves | Low‑profile; controlled | CoG drift; floor protection |
| Hiab crane truck | Self‑load/offload plant | Efficient, fewer units | Reach/weight limits at max radius |
| Modular/air skates | Delicate floors | Reduced point loads | Requires very smooth surfaces |
| Spreader beam / lifting frame | Wide picks; keep slings vertical | Reduces sling angles | Beam WLL & headroom requirements |
How to choose — quick decision tree (practical guide)
- Can you keep slings near‑vertical? If no, add a spreader beam or use gantry to maintain angles.
- Is the pick indoor with tight aisles? Use Versa‑Lift or toe‑jacks + skates; confirm floor load and turning radius.
- Is height the problem, not weight? Consider hydraulic gantry to avoid a street crane and keep loads controlled.
- Is the set‑down on a roof or through a window? Use a mobile/city crane; check ground‑bearing and wind limits.
- No kerbside space? Offload to a perimeter and shuttle/Hiab the last 200–500 m; then skates/gantry to position.
Capacity & precision bands (planning lens)
| Weight band | Typical assets | Best‑fit methods | Placement precision | Notes |
| ≤5 t | Lab gear, compact CNC, switchgear | Toe‑jacks + skates; small Versa‑Lift; Hiab | High (mm‑level) | Good floors required; protect thresholds |
| 5–15 t | CNC centres, small presses, chillers | Versa‑Lift; hydraulic gantry | High | Watch mast height; confirm floor ratings |
| 15–30 t | Injection moulders, large CNC | Versa‑Lift (high‑cap); gantry | Medium–High | Consider spreaders to control sling angles |
| 30–60 t | Press brakes, heavy frames | Hydraulic gantry; mobile crane | Medium | Street space & ground‑bearing drive method |
| 60 t+ | Large presses/transformers | Mobile crane; modular systems | Low–Medium | Early permits/escorts; engineered mats |
Sling & rigging notes (informative, not a calc)
- Lower sling angles increase leg tension — keep slings as vertical as possible or use a spreader beam.
- Confirm Working Load Limits (WLL) for every rigging component; never exceed the lowest WLL in the system.
- Use tag lines to control rotation; define no‑go zones and radio calls in the RAMS.
- Inspect lifting lugs and fixings; use OEM‑approved points only.
- For fragile frames, lift from engineered points with softeners and edge protection.
Floor & building protection (day‑of)
- Lay steel/aluminium plates or timber cribbing to spread point loads from wheels, skates and outriggers.
- Protect thresholds/tiles with rigid boards; confirm lift cabin capacities and dimensions.
- Keep escape routes clear; barriers and spotters in place before any pick.
Method pairings that work
- Gantry → skates for controlled placement in tight plants.
- Crane → Hiab shuttle → skates where streets are narrow but roofs need a pick.
- Versa‑Lift + spreader for wide‑base machinery with sensitive covers.
- Toe‑jacks + air skates for delicate floors where roller point loads are too high.
Calculations and final method selection must be completed by a competent person/Appointed Person. The above is guidance to help plan surveys and RFQs.
Ask for a rigging plan suggestion with your quote → Removals to the Czech Republic
Transport engineering: trailers & configurations
Choose based on height, length, weight, and route constraints.
Trailer selector (expanded)
| Trailer type | Best use case | Pros | Watch‑outs / limits |
| Low‑loader / semi‑low | Tall machinery within route limits | Very low deck height | Limited for extreme weights; ramping |
| Detachable‑neck low‑loader (Tiefbett) | Very tall/heavy machines needing low bed entry | Lowest loading angle; stable | Complex access; needs space to neck |
| Extendable step‑frame | Long beds (presses, CNC lines) | Length flexibility | Manoeuvrability in cities; swing |
| Extendable flat/beam | Long, uniform loads (tanks, beams) | Simple deck; quick loading | No weather protection; height checks |
| Modular multi‑axle (SPMT/MAFI) | Very heavy/oversize plant | Massive capacity; configurable | Permits/escorts; speed & complexity |
| Flatbed with Hiab | Self‑loading/offloading plant | Fewer units on site | Reach at radius; height/weather limits |
| City trailer (short, rear‑steer) | Tight urban access | Better turning circle | Lower payload; limited deck length |
| Box/curtain (air‑ride) | Sensitive lab/med gear | Clean, low vibration | Internal height limits; ramping |
| Mega/curtain high‑cube (air‑ride) | Tall but lighter/sensitive components | Extra internal height | Not for very heavy point loads |
Quick pairing matrix (scenario → transport → last‑mile)
| Scenario | Typical asset | Transport choice | Last‑mile mix |
| Very tall, moderate weight | Injection moulder; chiller | Detachable‑neck low‑loader | Crane/gantry → skates |
| Very heavy, compact | Transformer; press section | Modular multi‑axle (SPMT/MAFI) | Gantry/crane → skates |
| Very long bed | CNC/press bed | Extendable step‑frame or flat/beam | Versa‑Lift/gantry → skates |
| Sensitive, low‑vibration | Metrology/lab equipment | Box/curtain (air‑ride) | Air‑ride shuttle → lift |
| Tight city access | Plant to mixed‑use building | City trailer + Hiab | Hiab shuttle → skates |
| Multi‑collection/multi‑drop | Several machines, split weights | Step‑frame + staged loading | Perimeter offload → shuttle |
Route constraints & checks (practical)
- Heights: bridges, tram wires, tunnels; confirm full route—out and back.
- Widths & turns: roundabouts, street furniture, site gates; rear‑steer helps.
- Axle loads: match trailer/tractor axle groups to road and site limits.
- Gradients & ramps: watch deck overhangs and neck clearance.
- Surfaces: cobbles/uneven paving need lower speeds, plates or air‑ride.
- Urban rules: delivery windows, quiet‑hour constraints, bay availability.
- Weather: wind thresholds for cranes; snow/ice for traction and braking.
Securing & stability (informative, non‑standard‑specific)
- Keep CoG centred over the deck; balance axle loads.
- Use rated lashing points/chains/straps; protect edges; add blocking/chocking.
- Apply shock/tilt sensors for sensitive equipment; maintain a photo log of securing.
- Re‑check securing at first safe stop; document torque checks where applicable.
Last‑mile mix (examples): Perimeter offload by big truck → Hiab/city trailer shuttle to door → gantry/skates to final position. For tight cores, consider night or mid‑week windows and secondary bays.
Ask us to propose the trailer + last‑mile combo for your route → Removals to the Czech Republic
Protection & export packing (damage prevention)
A well‑engineered pack prevents mechanical shock, vibration, moisture and contamination from turning a successful lift into costly downtime. Below you’ll find decision guides, materials notes and QA steps you can copy straight into your RFQ and RAMS.
What robust protection achieves
- Preserves alignment & finish: no scuffs on painted/cast surfaces, no bent guards.
- Controls moisture/corrosion: sealed barrier + desiccants + VCI where needed.
- Speeds recommissioning: cables/components mapped, parts kits labelled, photos logged.
- Supports claims & QA: condition photos and shock/tilt logs provide evidence.
Crate vs. wrap — when to choose which (quick guide)
- Use export‑grade timber crating when assets are sensitive, top‑heavy, multi‑drop, heading to storage, or where handling is unknown. Include base tie‑downs and forklift pockets.
- Use shrink‑wrap + boards/frames when assets are robust with a short, direct route or entirely indoor handling. Add corner boards, rigid panels and impact guards on protrusions.
- Hybrid: palletised sub‑assemblies in crates; main frame wrapped with edge protection and shock sensors.
Materials & standards (practical notes)
- Timber to ISPM‑15 (HT‑stamped) for international routes; mark crate ID and gross/tare weights.
- Use closed‑cell foams and non‑abrasive separators; anti‑static materials for electronics/controls.
- Build lifting/tie‑down points into crate bases; avoid crushing cables/hoses under bearers.
- Add humidity indicator cards (HIC) on barrier‑bagged items; log readings at handover.
Moisture & corrosion control (barrier + VCI)
- For corrosion‑prone assets (e.g., unpainted machined surfaces), use aluminium‑laminate barrier bags with calculated desiccant and VCI emitters.
- Heat‑seal seams, reinforce corners, label “Do not open until installation”.
- For storage >30 days, plan HIC checks and desiccant refresh intervals; keep crates off the floor and out of direct weather.
Shock & tilt monitoring (informative)
- Apply shock and tilt indicators on crates or asset frames as agreed in RAMS.
- Define trip actions in the method statement (e.g., stop, inspect, record photos, countersign).
- Log serial numbers of indicators in the packing list to match evidence with the asset ID.
Cable & component mapping (fast restart)
- Photograph every disconnection; use loom numbering, colour caps and QR labels linking to the photo set.
- Bag fixings by assembly (not by type) and label their return positions; include a small spares kit (fuses, gland seals, cable ties).
On‑site surface & building protection
- Edge/corner guards on sharp or coated surfaces; rigid boards for glass/marble; coil/casing covers for HVAC.
- Floor and threshold protection at origin/destination; avoid crushing at slab joints.
- Weather covers for roof picks and open‑air staging.
Packaging QA — copy/paste checklist
| Stage | Check | Record | Owner |
| Pre‑pack | Asset clean, dry; lifting points verified | Photos; checklist signed | Crew lead |
| During | Foams/guards fitted; cables labelled | Photo log; component list | Rigger |
| Barrier | Desiccant placed; HIC installed; sealed | Seal photos; HIC baseline | Packer |
| Loading | Tie‑downs at rated points; edges protected | Lashing photo log; torque note | Driver |
| Arrival | HIC read; indicators checked; crate intact | Handover photos; sign‑off | Client rep |
Packaging matrix (expanded quick picker)
| Asset | Primary protection | Add‑ons |
| CNC / metrology | Custom crate + shock indicators | Air‑ride trailer; temperature control |
| Injection press | Frame braces + shrink + rigid boards | Oil drain; drip trays; tilt indicators |
| Press brake/stamping | Crate base + spreaders at pick points | Edge guards; sling softeners |
| Transformer | Moisture barrier bag + VCI | Lift spreaders; insulating pads |
| Chiller (roof lift) | Corner guards + shrink + weather cover | Crane nets; roof edge protection |
| Printing line | Section‑by‑section crates + cable maps | Alignment marks; tagged rollers |
| Lab/medical | Shock‑isolated crate + anti‑static wrap | Air‑ride; temperature logging |
| Switchgear | Crate with cable bay + desiccants | Tilt/shock indicators; gasket protection |
We engineer the pack to the actual risk profile of your asset and route. Final materials and sensor specs are confirmed in RAMS and the Packing Plan.
Need storage between stages? We can pack, store and redeliver in Prague; crates remain sealed and monitored with periodic HIC checks.
Ask for a Packing Plan + sample photo log with your quote → Removals to the Czech Republic
Czech last‑mile realities (Prague, Brno, Ostrava)
City cores are beautiful—and constrained. Plan the final 500 metres carefully with a kerb‑to‑bay strategy, not just a truck booking.
Street access snapshot (quick table — practical, non‑legal)
| Area/Zone | Typical constraints (indicative) | Kerbside options | Helpful tactics |
| Prague 1 (Old Town/heritage cores) | Timed delivery windows; narrow, cobbled streets; tram wires/overheads; limited loading bays | Pre‑book temporary bay suspensions; perimeter offload | Shuttle vans/city trailer + Hiab, night or mid‑week slots, second bay as fallback |
| Brno‑střed (central) | Resident zones; one‑way grids; limited turning | Time‑boxed loading; inner‑city cranes by permit | Rear‑steer city trailers, compact cranes; pre‑walk the route |
| Ostrava/Plzeň centres | Wider roads than Prague but events can block access | On‑street bays often available with notice | Avoid event days; confirm tram lines & bus lanes |
| Industrial parks (CZ nationwide) | Security gates & HSE inductions; PPE rules; strict speed/escort | Generous bays; marshalled access | Ensure driver IDs, induction times; align with shift changes |
These are planning heuristics only. We coordinate actual permits/bays with municipalities or park management and confirm on‑site rules before move day.
City‑by‑city notes (what to expect)
- Prague: Medieval street geometry meets modern tram power lines. Expect tighter turning, pedestrian zones and delivery windows in heritage streets. Typical play: perimeter offload → Hiab or shuttle van to door → indoor skates/gantry. For roof picks, book crane siting and confirm ground‑bearing + outrigger mats. Always check overhead clearances and balcony protrusions on pre‑walk.
- Brno: Central Brno‑střed mixes pedestrian areas with resident parking. One‑way streets make long rigs awkward; a rear‑steer city trailer or split loads often wins. Kerbside is easier in outer districts—use them as staging to shuttle into the core.
- Ostrava/Plzeň: Industrial districts are comparatively straightforward; city centres can be busy on event days. Confirm tram corridors, bus‑lane rules and any local roadworks; keep a contingency bay.
- Industrial parks: Access usually excellent but processes matter: photo ID, induction certificates, PPE, site speed rules and escort vehicles inside the park. Loading areas are large—perfect for gantry/Versa‑Lift placement.
Building realities & vertical access (verify on survey)
| Feature | Typical range (indicative) | What to measure |
| Goods‑lift door width | ~1.1–1.4 m | Clear opening, not just frame; any rebates/handles |
| Goods‑lift height | ~2.1–2.4 m | Lowest obstruction: light fittings, sensors |
| Cabin length/diagonal | ~2.1–2.6 m | Diagonal path for long bases/bedways |
| Floor point loads | Varies by building | Published kN/m² + slab joints; near columns/pits |
| Route gradients/steps | Ramps, thresholds | Need for ramps/plates and winch assists |
Values are common observations, not guarantees. We always measure and photograph each pinch‑point and confirm floor ratings with facilities/structural teams.
5‑step kerb‑to‑bay playbook
- Reserve space: apply for municipal bay suspension or use on‑site marshalling in parks; print/display notices.
- Pre‑walk & mark: chalk the machine path, door swings, and tight turns; place protection and ramps ahead of time.
- Shuttle & stage: offload to a safe perimeter; use city trailer/Hiab/vans to bridge the last 200–500 m.
- Vertical access booked: goods‑lift/roof access confirmed with building management; radio channel agreed.
- Fallback ready: a second bay or alternate entrance on the plan; if blocked, switch without downtime.
The last‑50‑metres toolkit
- Toe‑jacks & low skates, threshold ramps/plates, corner/edge guards, floor protection.
- Compact turntables for rotating long beds in corridors.
- Battery task lights for basements/plant rooms; radios for comms.
- Signage & barriers to hold a clean corridor; spill kits if oils are present.
Example micro‑schedules (illustrative)
- Prague Old Town (windowed access): 06:00 perimeter offload → 06:30 shuttle to entrance → 07:00 goods‑lift slot → 08:00 placement → 09:00 bay reopened.
- Industrial park (wide access): 08:00 gate‑in & induction → 08:30 crane set‑up & mats → 09:15 lift/position → 11:00 final level & torque → 12:00 handover.
Risk triggers & mitigations
- No bay on arrival → hold at perimeter; deploy secondary bay plan; update TM.
- Goods‑lift undersized → switch to gantry/Versa‑Lift or window/roof pick if structurally approved.
- Weather (wind/gusts) → adhere to Lift Plan limits; move to sheltered gantry plan where feasible.
- Crowd/pedestrian pressure → expand exclusion zone; add marshals; brief concierge/neighbours.
Cross‑link for access basics → Moving to Prague
Decommission → Transport → Recommission (with OEM support)
A successful industrial move is staged, documented and signed off at each transition. Below is a field‑tested sequence with deliverables you can drop into your RAMS.
- Decommission: isolate power/fluids, drain & cap lines, secure moving parts, document settings.
- Deliverables: isolation certificates, photos of control settings, labelled cables/hoses, fluid disposal log, OEM standby plan.
- Controls: lock‑out/tag‑out, spill kits, MSDS sheets, fire watch if hot works.
- Remove & load: rig per lift plan; protect floors; control lines & banksmen.
- Deliverables: rigging inspection log, lifting‑point verification, floor/threshold protection plan, exclusion‑zone map.
- Controls: radio checks, tag lines, spotters, stop‑work criteria posted.
- Transport: route monitoring; rest stops planned around escort rules.
- Deliverables: CMR/BOL, securing photo log, shock/tilt ID list, route brief with heights/turns/stops.
- Controls: securing re‑check at first safe stop; weather/road alerts; driver hours compliance.
- Place & level: final positioning, levelling, anchor points; torque settings.
- Deliverables: datum/level records, torque sheet, anchor patterns, placement certificate signed by client rep.
- Controls: exclusion zone maintained, floor load plates left in place until sign‑off.
- Recommission: OEM or client engineers reconnect services, refill, purge, and test; alignment/calibration where needed.
- Deliverables: recommissioning checklist, calibration certificates, trial‑run report, snag list closure.
- Controls: qualified personnel only; test guards/interlocks; emergency stops verified.
Note: Electrical/gas works must be done by qualified engineers. We coordinate timelines and safe access.
Stage ownership (summary)
| Stage | Primary owner | Key outputs | Sign‑off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decommission | Client engineering + our coordinator | Isolation docs; drained/cleaned asset; labelled cables | Client H&S + coordinator |
| Remove & load | Lift Supervisor + rigging crew | Rigging log; protection laid; exclusion zone active | Client rep present |
| Transport | Lead driver + coordinator | CMR/BOL; securing photos; indicator serials | Consignee signature |
| Place & level | Lift Supervisor | Level/torque sheets; placement cert | Client engineering |
| Recommission | OEM/client engineers | Calibration/test records; acceptance report | Client/OEM sign‑off |
Acceptance tests (examples to include in your brief)
- Static checks: guards, interlocks, emergency stops, oil levels, coolant/pneumatic pressure stability.
- Functional tests: axis homing, temperature stability, vibration baseline, no‑load run for 30–60 min.
- Quality checks: sample part/print, dimensional or electrical tolerance vs OEM spec.
- Documentation: calibration certificates, parameter backups, final photo set.
Cost drivers & how to control them (no prices)
The right plan cuts hours, not corners. Below are practical levers that reduce risk and cost without compromising safety.
| Driver | Why it matters | How to reduce |
| Mass & dimensions | Dictate cranes/trailers/permits | Dismantle into safe sub‑loads; confirm CoG |
| Access complexity | Street/lift/roof constraints | Night/mid‑week slots; shuttle/Hiab plan |
| Crane/gantry hours | Time = cost | Pre‑rig, clear paths, sign‑offs ready |
| Permits & escorts | Lead times & routing | Apply early; choose routes with fewer restrictions |
| Waiting time | Idle crews/equipment | Lock keys/permits; single point of contact on site |
| Protection level | Risk vs cost | Target protection to risk; crate only sensitive assets |
| Route distance/time | Driver hours & fuel; windows | Consolidate collections; smart staging near destination |
| Storage & handling | Double handling adds risk/cost | Keep crates sealed; minimise interim moves |
| Site readiness | Delays cascade across crews | Confirm inductions, access codes, lift bookings |
| Season/weather | Wind limits; snow/ice | Build float days; prioritise indoor/gantry options |
Cost‑savvy tactics: combine collections, accept broader delivery windows, pre‑book municipal bays, and stage to storage if the destination isn’t ready.
Smart trade‑offs
- Dedicated vs shared transport: share for smaller robust items; dedicate for high‑value or complex last‑mile.
- Crane vs gantry: gantry can remove street permits; crane can shorten overall site time.
- Full crate vs reinforced wrap: crate for long routes/storage; wrap for short, controlled moves.
False economies to avoid
- Skipping survey photos/measurements.
- Under‑specifying rigging or reducing spotters.
- Delaying permits until the final week.
Request an engineered quote → Removals to the Czech Republic
Timeline & project checklist (copy/paste)
At‑a‑glance schedule
| When | Key actions | Outcome |
| 8–6 weeks | RFQ + survey request; OEM coordination; preliminary RAMS | Scope drafted |
| 6–5 weeks | Survey; permit path identified; provisional bookings | Risks mapped |
| 4–3 weeks | Final RAMS/Lift Plan; trailer & crane bookings; packaging order | Method locked |
| 2 weeks | Inductions/toolbox talks; municipal/escort permits; isolation plan | Access cleared |
| Final week | Pack/crate; pre‑rig; floor protection; confirm windows | Ready to lift |
| Move days | Execute lift plan; transport; last‑mile; place & level | Safe delivery |
| Week after | Recommission; snag list; debris removal | Asset productive |
Detailed checklist (engineer’s cut)
- Survey → measures, floor loads, CoG, lift points, utilities, weather contingencies.
- RAMS & Lift Plan → draw‑ups, sign‑offs, certificates, exclusion zones.
- Permits → oversize/overweight, municipal bays, crane siting, escorts.
- Bookings → cranes/gantries/Versa‑Lift, trailers, storage, escort vehicles.
- Packaging → crates/VCI/shock sensors; labels, cable mapping, spare parts kit.
- Decommission → isolate, drain, cap, brace, photograph.
- Execution → banksmen, radios, spotters; protect floors; maintain log.
- Placement → level/anchor; torque & alignment; handover checklist.
- Recommission → OEM sign‑off; calibration; trial run; issue documentation pack.
Gate reviews (GO/NO‑GO)
- T‑14 days: permits in flight, crane/gantry confirmed, RAMS signed by stakeholders.
- T‑48 h: weather check, bay confirmation, site keys/induction complete, equipment list verified.
Parallel tracks
Permits & traffic management ● Packaging build ● Crane/gantry prep ● Site inductions ● OEM scheduling.
Documentation pack (who signs & when)
| Document | Purpose | Signers |
| Inventory with serials | Tracking & insurance | Crew lead + client |
| Condition photos | Claims protection | Crew lead + client |
| RAMS / Lift Plan | Safe system of work | Appointed person + client H&S |
| Crane & rigging certs | Compliance | Crane co. + coordinator |
| Ground‑bearing/mat calcs | Crane outrigger safety | Crane co. / AP + client H&S |
| Permits (road/municipal) | Legal use of road/space | Authorities + coordinator |
| CMR/BOL | Carriage record | Driver + consignee |
| Packing list | Contents control | Crew lead + client |
| Calibration certificates | Quality acceptance | OEM/client engineering |
| Commissioning report | Functional acceptance | Client engineering + OEM |
| Snag list & closure | Outstanding items resolved | Coordinator + client |
| Insurance cert | Coverage detail | Insurer + client |
How you receive it: a digital Project Pack (PDF + photos) shared post‑move; hard copies available on request.
FAQs
Do you handle oversize/overweight permits and escorts?
Yes—route planning and applications are included. Lead times vary; early notice keeps dates firm.
Can you lift onto a roof or through a window?
Yes—via mobile/city cranes or hydraulic gantries, subject to ground bearing and structural sign‑off.
What if my floor can’t take the load?
We spread loads with steel plates/cribbing or switch to gantry/air skates; structural engineer sign‑off may be required.
Do you provide crating and corrosion protection?
Yes—export timber crates, barrier bags, desiccants and VCI per asset sensitivity.
Who reconnects services?
OEM or qualified client engineers; we coordinate access and sequence.
Can you store machinery in Prague?
Yes—short/medium‑term storage with redelivery once your site is ready.
What insurance do I need?
Standard CMR applies in transit; we can arrange project all‑risk for high‑value lifts.
How far in advance should I book?
For complex lifts, 6–8 weeks gives best permit flexibility; faster turnarounds are possible for simpler moves.
Can you dismantle/dress the machine for transport?
Yes—within the OEM guidelines and with your engineering approval; we document all removals and provide a parts kit.
Do you support moves from the UK?
Yes—international removals to Czech Republic are part of our core service; we coordinate with your customs broker.
Do you offer shared/part‑load options for smaller plant?
Where safe and practical, yes. For high‑value or fragile machinery we recommend dedicated transport.
What happens if weather stops a crane lift?
We follow the Lift Plan wind/gust limits and pre‑agree a contingency day or a gantry fallback where feasible.
Move heavy, move safely, move once → Removals to the Czech Republic









