At DBI Transport, we’ve seen firsthand how the right matting solutions make the difference between a smooth, efficient move and a costly delay. After all, the ground beneath the load is just as important as the trucks and trailers carrying it.
We’ll break down what rig mats are and when they’re needed in heavy haul projects. This way, you’ll understand why rig matting is a necessity for safe and successful transport.
What Are Rig Mats And What Are They Used for?
Rig mats, sometimes called rigging mats, are heavy-duty platforms built to handle the toughest transport and construction challenges. Made with durable wood and reinforced steel frames, they’re designed to support extreme weight and provide a stable surface for heavy equipment.
In the world of specialized transport and rigging, the mats serve several important purposes:
- Load stability
- Ground protection
- Site accessibility
- Safety
Some rig mats differ slightly to serve different use cases. For instance, access mats are lighter and easier to maneuver than a typical rig mat. These mats create temporary roadways or access routes for trucks and smaller equipment going on site. And swamp mats are designed specifically for wetlands or unstable terrain.
People sometimes use these different mat names interchangeably. However, understanding the differences between them ensures you’re choosing the right mat for your project.
Their dimensions and weight also vary depending on the project’s needs:
- Common sizes are 8’ x 20’ and 8’ x 40’
- A 20’ rig mat can weigh anywhere from 3,000 to 4,500 lbs, depending on its construction
- Some heavy mats need special lifting tools (grapples) to move safely on site
It’s crucial to factor in mat size and weight when planning your haul because different laws and regulations apply to oversize loads. Read more about heavy hauling in our article, “How Does Oversize Load Hauling Work in Canada?”
When Are Rig Mats Needed in Specialized Transport?
Not every haul requires rig mats. But, they become essential when the ground, equipment, or load presents challenges.
In heavy haul and specialized transport, people typically use rig mats in these situations:
- Supporting outriggers and cranes: When using large cranes or equipment with outriggers, mats crucially provide a stable base. This prevents the equipment from sinking into the ground and ensures safe lifting and loading.
- Protecting surfaces: Heavy trucks and trailers can cause damage on construction sites, paved roads, or industrial yards. Rig mats protect the ground, saving crews time, money, and cleanup.
- Crossing soft or unstable terrain: A good example in Alberta is hauling mining equipment to a site that can’t support the oversize load. Swamp mats, access mats, and rig mats are often essential in wetlands, muddy access roads, and remote job sites.
Beyond ground protection and supporting heavy equipment, rig mats ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations. They reduce the risk of equipment tipping or loads shifting.
Ultimately, rig mats are critical to keeping crews, equipment, and cargo secure.
Need to move across frozen terrain? Learn about our Ice Road Transport Services.
DBI Transports Expertise in Heavy Haul with Rig Mats
At DBI Transport, we know that moving oversized and heavy loads is about planning, precision, and the right support equipment. Rig mats are one of the tools that allow us to transport massive loads across challenging terrain safely in Canada and the US.
With a robust fleet of trucks and trailers, our team handles everything from construction machinery to mining equipment. Pairing that equipment with proven solutions like rig matting helps our clients avoid delays and protect their crew, equipment, and worksites.
If your next heavy haul requires expert planning and specialized equipment, reach out to our team today. We’re here to help you get your load where it needs to go, safely and on schedule.