Moving heavy machinery isn’t just about muscle—it’s about precision, planning, and experience. Whether you’re relocating a single CNC machine or orchestrating a full-scale plant move, avoiding common machinery moving mistakes can save you serious time, money, and stress.
Here are the top pitfalls we see in the field—and how to avoid them by working with a professional machinery moving company.
1. Skipping a Site Walkthrough or Pre-Move Assessment
Before any machinery is unbolted or lifted, a comprehensive site walkthrough is essential. Too many teams rush into a move without:
- Measuring clearances (doors, ceilings, docks)
- Evaluating floor load capacity
- Identifying hazards or obstructions
- Assessing required disassembly steps
Mistake: Assuming all machines will fit and function in the new space without evaluation.
Pro Tip: A proper pre-move assessment by seasoned industrial movers ensures safety, reduces surprises, and improves scheduling accuracy.
2. Underestimating Load Weight or Center of Gravity
Many machinery moves go sideways—literally—due to incorrect assumptions about weight distribution or a machine’s center of gravity.
Mistake: Relying on outdated specs, guessing weights, or using the wrong rigging equipment.
Pro Tip: Always verify specs with the manufacturer, and if possible, use load cells to confirm. Let certified riggers calculate lift plans using the appropriate cranes, skates, and lifting systems.
3. Poor Communication Between Teams
Even a short move can go wrong if everyone’s not on the same page. We’ve seen issues arise when electricians, millwrights, and movers operate in silos.
Mistake: Failing to coordinate internal departments, outside vendors, and transportation partners.
Pro Tip: Assign a single point of contact and hold a pre-move coordination meeting. At LMM, we provide complete project oversight to keep everyone aligned from start to finish.
4. Ignoring Legal and Safety Requirements
Heavy equipment relocation often requires local permits, road escorts, and OSHA-compliant safety procedures. Many companies don’t realize this until they’re already mid-move—and facing fines or delays.
Mistake: Moving without permits or ignoring OSHA standards.
Pro Tip: Hire a company familiar with machinery moving regulations in your area. We handle all permits, lift plans, and safety protocols to keep your move compliant and on time.
5. Choosing Price Over Experience
While cost is always a factor, choosing a low-bid provider without heavy rigging experience can backfire.
Mistake: Hiring a general contractor or freight mover instead of an experienced machinery moving company.
Pro Tip: Ask for past project examples, certifications, insurance, and references. A few extra dollars spent on the right team can prevent thousands in damage or downtime.
How LMM Helps You Avoid These Mistakes
With decades of experience serving clients across Southeast Michigan and Northern Ohio, LMM provides:
- Expert rigging and machinery moving for all industrial sectors
- Thorough pre-move planning and site evaluations
- Certified, safety-compliant crews and equipment
- On-time, budget-friendly execution—even for complex moves
Smart Planning Means Fewer Headaches
Don’t let avoidable mistakes derail your next relocation project. By working with an experienced machinery moving partner like LMM, you get the peace of mind that comes from meticulous planning, flawless execution, and zero surprises.
Call to Action
Planning a machinery move? Contact us today to schedule a site assessment and avoid costly setbacks before they happen.