Unloading Athletic Turf from Freight Truck
Posted by Matt Garrabrants on
Unloading Sports Turf from Freight Truck
Freight carriers do not help with unloading.
DO NOT REFUSE DELIVERY OR TURN TRUCK BACK. YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR FAILURE TO UNLOAD.
Overview
Unloading large athletic turf or long rolls from a freight truck can be scare customers; but it's fairly easy with some tow straps and a vehicle.
In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of unloading these heavy rolls safely and efficiently.
Typical weight of a turf roll length shown below.
| Roll Length | Weight | Unload Method |
|---|---|---|
| 15' x 20'L | 250-300 lbs | Drag or push off truck by hand or truck/tow straps |
| 15' x 30'L | 300-400 lbs | Drag or push off truck by hand or truck/tow straps |
| 15' x 40'L | 350-450 lbs | Drag or push off truck by hand (2 people) or truck/tow straps |
| 15' x 50-80'L | 450-1000 lbs | Requires tow straps, a vehicle, or a forklift to drag off the truck |
| 15' x 80'L+ | 1000-1500 lbs+ |
Requires tow straps, a vehicle or a forklift to drag off the truck. Very likely needs a forklift to move it once on the ground or many people to help roll it. |
This tutorial will give you a method to unload the turf from truck.
Materials Required:
- 2 looped end tow straps (20' each)
- 2 - 4 wheel furniture dolly's (if moving in through man door)
- Forklift with a carpet pole (optional)
- U-haul blanket or other
Step 1: Prepare the Area Before you begin unloading, clear the area of any obstacles in the path of the truck. Ensure there is enough space to maneuver the rolls safely. Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and safety shoes, to avoid any injuries.
Step 2: Use Tow Straps to Unload To unload the rolls.
- Create a lasso with the tow straps.
- Lay blanket down on ground to cushion edge of turf as it comes off truck
- Wiggle the lasso onto the turf and other end to truck or forklift
- Drag it to the back of the truck
- Drag turf off truck
Step 3:
- Turf is now on the ground.
- You can roll it where it needs to be with a few people
or - You can pickup each end and put on a 4 wheel dolly
or - You can pick it up with a forklift and bring it inside.
or - You can drag it with tow straps/people/small atv/utv
Note: If you have a forklift but don't have a carpet pole; avoid sticking the small fork into the turf, as it can tear or snap the cardboard tube inside and snap the turf.
Step 4: Rent a Forklift with a Carpet Pole (Optional)
For rolls 75' or larger, you might consider renting a forklift. Using a forklift with a carpet pole makes it easier to lift and move the rolls into the facility. Typical forklift rental can be up to $800 with daily rental and delivery/pickup fees....so using tow straps and a vehicle is a great low cost solution that works well.
In conclusion, unloading large carpet or turf rolls from a freight truck requires some preparation and the appropriate equipment. With these steps, you can safely and efficiently unload the rolls and get them into your facility and avoid re-delivery fees or failed deliveries.