And What Sets the Best Apart from the Rest

When your project involves heavy or awkward loads, choosing the right crane-assisted haulage provider can mean the difference between smooth success and costly disruption. But with so many operators out there - and many using similar buzzwords - how do you know who to trust?

Here’s what to look for when selecting a specialist partner, what questions to ask, and how C.P. Duck Haulage sets the standard for reliability, safety, and precision across the South West.

Experience That Goes Beyond the Brochure

Don’t be dazzled by a shiny website alone. The real test of a haulage provider is what they’ve lifted, where, and under what conditions. Have they tackled tight residential drops as well as industrial moves? Do they understand rural access? Are they used to liaising with contractors, councils, or private homeowners?

At C.P. Duck Haulage, we bring over 25 years’ experience in crane-assisted transport - not just in logistics, but in real-world problem solving. We’ve positioned bronze sculptures in historic courtyards, placed hot tubs into gardens with no rear access, and lifted renewables onto off-grid barns. There’s not much we haven’t faced . . . or lifted.

In-House RAMS, Movement Orders & Lift Plans

Compliance matters. Whether your site needs a full RAMS package, a Movement Order for an over-width delivery, or a site-specific Lift Plan - the right provider should handle the paperwork with the same care they handle your load.

At C.P. Duck Haulage, we offer:

Generic RAMS on request
Site-specific RAMS from client detail or photographs
Comprehensive RAMS & Lift Plans following a site visit
Local Authority Movement Orders for vehicles/loads over 2.9 metres

No scrambling for documents. No last-minute gaps in compliance. Just peace of mind.

ALLMI-Certified Operators & LOLER-Tested Equipment

Always ask: Are your operators certified? Is your tackle LOLER-tested?

If the answer isn’t an immediate “yes,” keep looking.

Our operators hold ALLMI (Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers) certification - the UK benchmark for lorry loader safety and competence. All lifting gear is LOLER-tested and traceable, including slings, chains, mats, and frames.

This isn’t just about meeting regulations. It’s about making sure your load - and everyone around it - stays safe.

Fleet Fit for Purpose

The right equipment makes all the difference. But so does knowing it’s cared for.

Does your haulage provider have the reach, capacity, and configuration to meet your site’s access needs - and the right maintenance regime to back it up?

At C.P. Duck Haulage, we operate a FASSI 66 tm rear-mounted crane capable of lifting 3.1 tonnes at 16 metres. It’s mounted to an 18-tonne rigid for tight access work, or a 40-tonne articulated lorry with urban trailer for longer loads and increased reach. This gives us the flexibility to handle everything from city-centre drops to countryside manoeuvres with confidence.

Just as crucially, our fleet is maintained to exacting standards:

We partner with a trusted vehicle maintenance specialist
All vehicles and trailers undergo 6-weekly inspections
Our cranes are LOLER-tested every six months
Lifting accessories are routinely checked and individually certified
Daily walkaround checks ensure readiness before every lift

It’s not just about capacity - it’s about consistency, compliance, and care. Because when you’re lifting valuable assets into precise positions, you need a fleet (and team) you can rely on.

People You Can Actually Speak To

There’s nothing worse than being stuck in a call queue when your site is on a tight deadline. The right provider is responsive, human, and actually listens.

At C.P. Duck Haulage, when you call, you speak to someone who knows your job - often the same person planning your lift or driving the truck. No call centres. No miscommunication. Just fast, clear answers when you need them.

Industry Memberships That Mean Something

Don’t be afraid to ask: Are you a member of RHA? Are you ALLMI-approved?

These accreditations signal a provider committed to industry standards, continuing development, and best practice.

We’re proud to be members of both:

RHA – Road Haulage Association
ALLMI – Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers

They keep us accountable - and you protected.

A Family Ethos with Commercial Standards

C.P. Duck Haulage is family-run, but we operate with professional-grade rigour.

That means:

£10 million public liability cover
Full goods-in-transit insurance
Accurate paperwork, delivered promptly
Tailored solutions, not one-size-fits-all pricing

We’re big enough to lift serious loads, but small enough to care.

How to Choose with Confidence

When selecting a crane-assisted haulage provider, consider the full picture:

Can they demonstrate real experience?
Are they fully certified and compliant?
Do they handle everything in-house - lifting plans, movement orders, paperwork?
Will they take the time to understand your needs?

If any of those answers feel uncertain - it might be time to look elsewhere. Or, just give us a call.

Need Help planning your Lift?

Whether you’re moving a hot tub, installing public art, or handling a high-value delivery with complex access, we’ll work with you to plan a safe, compliant, and efficient lift - start to finish.

Call 0977 060487 or email chris@cpduckhaulage.co.uk

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