Transport Planning For Stainless Steel Tank Design

Transport planning for stainless steel tanks is a critical consideration when designing stainless steel storage tanks or pressure vessels. Effective logistics ensure that the tanks are delivered on time, within budget, and without complications.

 A&G Engineering is renowned as Australia’s premier fabricator of stainless-steel tanks and pressure vessels. Depending on the project requirements, tanks can be pre-fabricated in the workshop and transported to the worksite either as complete vessels or as a series of components to be assembled on site.  

As part of the initial project brief, A&G Engineering’s Transport Administrator, Emma Minato, conducts an assessment of potential routes from A&G Engineering’s workshops to the installation location. This extra step ensures accurate quotation and ensures there are no unexpected interruptions to the project being delivered on time. 

Design, Cost Management and Compliance 

Emma said, “The client will invariably have a preference. For example, they may want the tank to be fabricated in our workshop and transported as a complete unit. By considering the transport challenges, we can recommend the optimum size and shape of the tank and specify a logistics-friendly product that can be delivered complete and ready to install.”  

Emma added, “At this time we will build a transport quote. Design is a key factor in cost management. If, for example, we need to lift power lines along the route, it can have a significant impact on cost. We let the client know early so they can either adjust their specifications or allow for the cost in their budget. The client may choose to reduce the diameter of the tank, so that it sits lower on the trailer, and increase the length to maintain the same volume. This can help reduce transport costs, while still delivering the tank volume and performance required.”  

Emma said, “I usually get involved in the project if there is a requirement for oversize load management. A lot of our tanks require oversize permits and are generally escorted which is a part of my role. The regulatory and compliance requirements are onerous and attention to detail is absolutely critical as there is no room for error. You have to tick all the boxes to get the tank on the road without any problems. We do this for our clients so they don’t have to worry about it, and to ensure we are always fully compliant.” 

As A&G Engineering delivers its tanks and vessels around the country, route planning and fatigue management is essential. A&G Engineering are BFM (Basic Fatigue Management) certified and are subject to an intense audit every two years. As Emma noted, “BFM accreditation is critical to us, and we have to ensure that every box is ticked and everything that we do complies. It keeps our team safe and our customer happy.” 

In-House Logistics Excellence 

A&G Engineering has a dedicated in-house transport and logistics team with its own fleet of prime movers, low-load trailers and cranes, managed by a highly experienced and accredited team. Emma noted, “Our transport and logistics team is set-up for this work. We do everything ourselves – a seamless tank build and delivery process with clear and concise communication. Not only does this make A&G Engineering price competitive, but it enables us to manage the entire end-to-end process from initial concepts to installation and commissioning.” 

“The quality of A&G Engineering tanks is renowned. Our capabilities in transport and logistics speaks for itself. We have an ongoing and strong appreciation for compliance and many returning customers, which is testament to the robust processes we have in place. It’s just part of the experience that a customer can expect when they work with A&G.” 


A&G Engineering have been manufacturing stainless steel storage tanks and pressure vessels for 60 years. The unmatched combination of experience, flexibility, expertise, and technology combine for every A&G Engineering project to minimise production and operational risk and ensure on-time, on-budget, and as-specified delivery.      

If you have a technical query or want to find out how A&G Engineering can help you with your next project, talk to our expert team by calling us on (02) 6964 3422 or email sales@agengineering.com.au with your inquiry.     

We look forward to hearing from you.