Using the right type of delivery service can make or break a project

In all our years of experience in this industry one of the big mistakes we see companies making is not investing in having a professional organise specialised delivery, start-up and installation of their infrastructure.

Standard Delivery just won’t be adequate for most infrastructure equipment deliveries. In the majority of cases a Liftgate or Right-on Site service will be required. 

IT and Infrastructure Managers who’ve “been there and done that” know better. Often, they’ve learnt the hard way and know the importance of a thorough site inspection and pre-planning process to make sure things run smoothly on the day. 

So, what are the risks if your pre-planning isn’t done properly?

Something as simple as a single step inside a building or from gutter to curb can jeopardise the entire delivery.

At best, this type of issue can lead to additional cost and time blow-outs on the day for additional on-site time for the freight provider and project contractors such as builders, electricians or IT contractors. 

But often it means re-delivery 24-48 hours later (if that’s even possible), meaning expensive re-delivery fees, additional labour costs, project delays and missed deadlines. If it has to be a weekend delivery, the entire project is delayed by a week, which can be business critical.

Managers who haven’t had the experience (and haven’t had to answer to management when things go wrong on a major delivery), often don’t realise how much is involved in the delivery planning for an infrastructure project.

Specific factors to consider

There are factors that need to be considered related to: the product; the site; the delivery company and vehicle; the business’ own building and company policies; the staff involved; and even customs requirements for international shipments.

1.    Product

IT, power and cooling infrastructure is typically bulky, heavy, sensitive and difficult to manoeuvre through buildings. All of these factors need to be taken into account in the planning process.

2.    Site

Every inch counts in some deliveries. Loading dock heights, specific delivery times, entrance dimensions, goods lift access and dimensions can all delay a delivery without adequate planning.

3.    Delivery company & vehicle

Delivery of such goods requires experienced and flexible movers and often specialised equipment and vehicles.

4.    Company & building policies 

All people involved in the delivery, including staff, contractors and freight company employees need to be aware of any relevant policies and have the right security clearance and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

5.    Staff & contractors

Co-ordination of safety inductions and availability and scheduling of all involved parties is an essential step in ensuring a smooth delivery.

There is certainly a lot to consider and if you engage a professional to co-ordinate this process on your behalf, you have someone to guide you through, ensuring nothing is missed. 

BDC's approach to infrastructure deliveries

We have a tried and tested pre-site survey methodology and have organised hundreds of complex infrastructure deliveries. Our clients don’t have to worry about any small details being missed. The entire process will be mapped out, documented and communicated ahead of time.

If you have an infrastructure delivery and install on the horizon and would like some help to ensure a smooth process on the day, get in touch: sales@bdcservices.com.au or 1300 00 11 95