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Expert Heavy Haulage & Transport Services in the UK
Established over 45 years ago, JB Rawcliffe & Sons Ltd has built a reputation as a leading UK transport company specialising in heavy haulage, abnormal load transport, and cargo handling. Our expertise extends to machinery handling, transformer installation, and heavy goods storage, supported by a modern fleet of specialist vehicles and advanced systems. With a commitment to safety and efficiency, we provide tailored solutions for challenging logistics projects, serving sectors such as construction, defence, and marine.

Our team of experienced professionals ensures meticulous route planning, compliance with legal requirements, and 24/7 support for urgent needs. Backed by accreditations like Achilles UVDB Verified and FORS Bronze, we prioritise client satisfaction through cost-effective, reliable services. Headquartered in Skelmersdale, we combine decades of industry knowledge with cutting-edge technology to deliver seamless transportation solutions across the UK and internationally.
Services
Abnormal Load Transport Cargo Handling Heavy Haulage Machinery Handling Heavy Goods Storage Transformer Installation Salvage & Recovery Jacking & Skidding Tracked Machine Hire Route Planning
Highlights and features
  • Over 45 years of experience in heavy haulage and logistics
  • Modern fleet of specialist vehicles and advanced systems
  • 24/7 emergency response for urgent transport needs
  • Nationwide coverage with a central base in Skelmersdale
  • Accredited by industry-leading safety and logistics organisations
Associations and certifications
  • Achilles UVDB Verified
  • FORS Bronze
  • CCNSG Safety Passport
  • National Grid Persons
  • CSCS
  • Basic Electrical Safety Competence (BESC)
What people say
Top company Great service Delivered on time Excellent drivers Reliable transport
Services
Abnormal Load Transport
Specialist transportation for oversized and overweight cargo requiring bespoke logistics solutions. We handle loads exceeding 44,000kg or 2.9m width, with route planning, police notifications, and escort vehicles. Our expertise ensures compliance with legal requirements while minimising disruption to other road users. Clients benefit from tailored solutions for complex projects across construction, energy, and industrial sectors.
Cargo Handling
Comprehensive loading, unloading, and storage services for bulk cargo and containers. Our 12-acre facility features cranes with capacities up to 120,000kg and secure storage with 24/7 CCTV. We handle sensitive equipment in all weather conditions and provide packing solutions to prevent transit damage. Ideal for import/export operations and damaged cargo recovery with insurance-compliant documentation.
Machinery Handling
Installation, removal, and transportation of heavy industrial machinery using certified equipment. Services include hydraulic skid systems, air skates, and forklift trucks with capacities up to 40,000kg. We support power stations during shutdowns and provide turnkey solutions for equipment relocation. Clients benefit from reduced downtime and enhanced safety during complex machinery moves.
Transformer Installation
Specialist installation and removal of heavy transformers using jacking, skidding, and rigging systems. Our equipment adapts to space constraints where cranes cannot operate. We provide foundation assessments and risk mitigation for power plant projects. Clients receive cost-effective solutions with minimal operational disruption for energy sector clients.
Salvage & Recovery
24/7 service for recovering loads from accidents or theft. We use heavy-duty cranes and specialist equipment to retrieve abnormal loads including wind turbine parts and steel structures. Secure storage and alternate transport options are provided. Clients benefit from rapid response times and discreet handling of sensitive recovery operations.
Questions
What types of heavy haulage services do you offer?
We specialise in abnormal load transport, machinery handling, transformer installation, and cargo handling. Our services cover construction, defence, marine, and industrial sectors with bespoke logistics solutions.
How do you handle oversized cargo?
We use specialist vehicles including self-propelled modular transporters and hydraulic gantry systems. Our team conducts route surveys and obtains necessary permits to ensure safe transportation of oversized loads.
Do you provide 24/7 emergency services?
Yes, we offer 24-hour salvage and recovery services for urgent load retrieval, with rapid response teams available nationwide to handle accidents or equipment failures.
What safety accreditations do you hold?
We maintain Achilles UVDB Verified status, FORS Bronze accreditation, CCNSG Safety Passport certification, and comply with National Grid safety requirements.
Can you handle international transport projects?
Yes, our experience extends to European movements and international joint ventures, including a recent project in Kenya for heavy equipment transportation.
What storage facilities are available?
We offer 12 acres of secure storage with 24/7 CCTV, including indoor crane facilities for items up to 20,000kg and outdoor capacity for loads up to 120,000kg.