Multi-Move with H.C Wilson
In 2025 we completed a multi-move operation with H.C. Wilson Transport Ltd, escorting eight trucks over two weeks from Elmswell, Suffolk to Weston Cider in Ledbury. Moving four tanks at a time, we provided one escort per truck and delivered full start-to-finish coverage for every load.
Project highlights
Cargo and equipment: Oversize tanks transported on extended trailers, hauled by 4-axle tractor units.
Scale: Eight trucks moved in two-week phased transfers, four tanks per convoy.
Escorting: Single escort vehicle assigned to each truck for continuous support.
Route survey: Comprehensive pre-move route surveys completed to identify constraints and manage complex sections.
Duration: Continuous escorting through transit and delivery to ensure safety and compliance.
Challenges and handling
Oversize and length: Extended trailers presented tight-turn and clearance issues at junctions and narrow lanes. Escorts used advanced positioning and signalling to manage traffic and minimise disruption.
Vehicle combination: 4-axle tractor units increased swept-path requirements; pilot teams coordinated turning sequences and provided real-time guidance to drivers.
Local restrictions: Weight, width and temporal restrictions along urban approaches required careful planning and timing; escorts liaised with local authorities where necessary.
Access to delivery: Tight access at Weston Cider required spot checks, temporary traffic control and coordinated reversing operations; escorts managed vehicle spacing and banked turns to deliver tanks safely.
Operational approach
Detailed route surveys prior to movements to map pinch points, height and bridge clearances, turning radii and likely conflict areas.
Pre-move briefings with H.C. Wilson drivers covering manoeuvres, hand signals and contingency procedures.
One-to-one escort assignment to maintain consistent communication and reduce response times.
Use of escort vehicles to control oncoming traffic, protect vulnerable road users and create safe passing opportunities.
Continuous liaison with site teams at origin and destination to coordinate loading/unloading windows and on-site movements.
Outcome All eight trucks and their tank loads were delivered without incident to Weston Cider. The combination of thorough route planning, experienced escorts and close coordination with H.C. Wilson ensured the operation met safety, timing and regulatory requirements while minimising disruption to local roads.
For multi-move or complex oversize projects, Slim’s Pilot Car Services provides route surveys, one-to-one escorting and end-to-end operational management tailored to heavy and extended-load transport.