When Fracht FWO needed assistance with hauling a behemoth weighing a staggering 315,500 pounds (143.1 tons) from Tacoma, Washington to Portland, Oregon, it turned to Omega Morgan’s specialised transport division. This wasn’t your average delivery – it was a colossal transformer, and its journey involved intricate planning, innovative solutions, and a touch of nighttime drama!

The Omega Morgan team knew this wouldn’t be a straightforward trip. The transformer, once secured, would tower over 15 feet tall (4.57 metres), exceeding the height limit for most freeway overpasses. Adding to the complexity, the combined weight of the transformer and truck would tip the scales at a hefty 620,400 pounds (281.5 tons), requiring careful route selection to avoid overloading bridges. The width and length of the beast presented another hurdle, making tight turns a potential nightmare.

Specialised transport, mountainous route

Omega Morgan’s team meticulously crafted a route that bypassed congested freeways. Their path weaved through Washington’s mountains, passing Castle Rock and Longview before crossing into Oregon and following the Columbia River towards Portland.

The journey began at the Port of Tacoma, where a 550-ton hydraulic crane hoisted the transformer onto a specialised trailer. A temporary stop at Omega Morgan’s Fife storage yard allowed for a two-month pause before the final leg.

The specialised transport’s grand finale involved a 160-ton dual-lane transport trailer and a crucial weight and measurement check, a requirement for such colossal cargo. Due to the sheer size, night-time travel was necessary, ensuring minimal disruption during the two-day journey. The first night saw the load reach Castle Rock, Washington, and the next tackled the stretch through Longview, Oregon, before finally arriving at its Portland substation destination.

The Final Hurdle: A Bridge Too Far (Almost!)

The final act wasn’t without its challenges. Crossing one of Portland’s major bridges demanded a complete traffic shutdown. Omega Morgan’s team, in collaboration with local traffic control, ensured a smooth passage by halting traffic on both sides of the bridge. But the journey wasn’t over yet. After crossing the bridge, another hurdle awaited the specialised transport crew – a low overpass. The solution? Carefully lowering the trailer at night, allowing the transformer to crawl underneath. This intricate manoeuvre, coordinated with multiple crews and authorities, ensured a successful nighttime operation, minimising disruption to daily commuters.