The project logistics experts at C.H. Robinson recently assisted their client with transporting equipment for a new propane dehydrogenation (PDH) plant in Belgium.

This extensive project involved seven large modules, seven breakbulk pieces and 31 containers. To make sure nothing was overlooked, C.H. Robinson developed a comprehensive method statement which included detailed drawings, loading and discharge sequencing, equipment lists, aerial photos, vessel specifications, analysis of port capabilities, route plans, risk assessment, timelines, and more.

Self-propelled modular transporters (SPMT) were used to move the modules, one measuring 60.1 x 10.3 x 12.5 meters and weighing 473.15 metric tons, a few hundred yards from the fabrication shop to the port where they were stored on stands to await departure.

Once the vessel arrived at the port, all the cargo was loaded onto a single heavy lift vessel for the six-day transport from Spain to Antwerp. The bulk of the cargo was stowed below deck in the ship’s hold with the two largest modules stowed on deck and shrink wrapped to protect them from the elements during ocean transit. 

Once berthed in Antwerp, the cargo was discharged under the watchful eye of C.H. Robinson’s onsite project manager. The containers and breakbulk cargo were trucked from the terminal to the Jobsite, but the modules required a different solution due to their large size and the obstacles along the route. Therefore, C.H. Robinson arranged for all modules to be transported via barge to the final site, using SPMT’s to load and unload. In all, a total of four barge trips were required to move the seven modules. 

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