Transportation is a critical factor in ensuring smooth construction progress, especially when dealing with materials like concrete that have limited working time. Key considerations include aligning transport capacity with production rates, accounting for distance and route conditions, and implementing contingency plans. Proper coordination between mixing stations and transport fleets prevents bottlenecks, while real-time monitoring and scheduling optimizations help mitigate delays caused by traffic or weather. By proactively addressing these logistical challenges, projects can maintain steady material flow and avoid costly work stoppages.
Key Points Explained:
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Matching Transport Capacity to Production Rates
- Calculate the number of vehicles needed based on the mixing station's output and the round-trip time to the site. Underestimating leads to material pileup; overestimating wastes resources.
- Example: If a station produces 60 m³/hour and each truck carries 10 m³ with a 2-hour round trip, minimum 12 trucks are required (60 ÷ 10 × 2).
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Accounting for Transportation Distance and Routes
- Longer distances require more vehicles or larger capacities to maintain supply continuity. Analyze routes for traffic patterns, weight restrictions, and accessibility.
- Poor road conditions or urban congestion may necessitate adjusted schedules (e.g., nighttime deliveries) or alternative routes.
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Material-Specific Handling
- Concrete's limited setting time demands strict adherence to schedules. Delays risk hardening in transit, forcing disposal and remixing.
- For other materials (e.g., steel, prefab components), secure loading/unloading methods prevent damage and rework.
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Contingency Planning
- Reserve 10–15% extra vehicles for breakdowns or unexpected demand spikes.
- Pre-approve backup suppliers or rental fleets for emergencies.
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Real-Time Coordination
- Use GPS tracking and dispatch software to monitor fleets and reroute dynamically.
- Assign a logistics coordinator to synchronize mixing, loading, and site unloading teams.
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Weather and External Factors
- Hot weather accelerates concrete curing; cold weather may require insulated trucks.
- Pre-check permits for oversized loads or seasonal road closures.
By integrating these measures, projects minimize downtime and ensure materials arrive just-in-time—neither too early (causing clutter) nor too late (delaying crews).
Summary Table:
| Consideration | Key Action | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Transport Capacity | Match fleet size to mixing station output and round-trip time. | Prevents material pileup or resource waste. |
| Distance & Route Conditions | Analyze traffic, accessibility, and adjust schedules for optimal transit. | Reduces delays and ensures timely delivery. |
| Material Handling | Adhere to concrete setting times; secure loading for fragile materials. | Avoids spoilage, damage, and costly rework. |
| Contingency Plans | Reserve extra vehicles (10–15%) and pre-approve backup suppliers. | Mitigates risks from breakdowns or demand spikes. |
| Real-Time Coordination | Use GPS tracking and assign a logistics coordinator for synchronization. | Enables dynamic rerouting and efficient team alignment. |
| Weather & External Factors | Adapt to temperature extremes (insulated trucks) and pre-check permits. | Ensures compliance and material integrity under varying conditions. |
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