There are a few important facts to consider when loading and securing a coach to a flat rack for shipping, of particular importance are coaches with pneumatic suspension as shown in the photos below.
Briefly Air suspension is a type of vehicle suspension powered by an electric or engine-driven air pump or compressor. This compressor pumps the air into a flexible bellows, usually made from textile-reinforced rubber. The air pressure inflates the bellows, and raises the chassis from the axle.
The purpose of air suspension is to provide a smooth, constant ride quality, but in some cases is used for sports suspension. Modern electronically controlled systems in coaches and light trucks almost always feature self-leveling along with raising and lowering functions.
As a consequence of air suspension care must be taken when lashing the coach to the flat rack, once the engine is off the suspension lowers, our preferred method of lashing is to place timber chocks under the suspension in order to provide support when the lashing is tensioned.
This method prevents unnecessary downward force on the suspension during the transport cycle, the downward force is equally distributed between the tyres and timber chocks preventing movement.
