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Originally Posted On: https://streammodular.com/blog/freight-shipping-benefits-offsite-construction/

Offsite construction is quickly growing due to its many benefits

Offsite construction represents a fast-growing industry with a projected global compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% between 2023-2030. The growing demand for prefabricated modules is driven by their significant advantages in construction freight shipping, such as cost and time savings, heightened safety, and enhanced flexibility. As the demand for sustainable and cost-effective construction practices continues to rise, offsite construction represents a transformative shift in the industry with far-reaching benefits for streamlining logistics.

Faster timelines

One of the biggest benefits of offsite construction is the shortened timeline. Because modules are constructed offsite in a factory setting, sitework and foundations can happen simultaneously. This alone can significantly shorten the overall construction timeline — depending on the project, by as much as 25 – 60%.

Fabricating the modules inside a controlled environment also virtually eliminates the possibility of weather-related delays for construction freight. This predictability can facilitate better planning for transportation schedules, making scheduling more efficient.

Finally, the modules often arrive on site with flooring, cabinets, counters, plumbing and electrical fixtures, and appliances, requiring less effort and time for onsite outfitting. Faster construction completion ultimately means that the shipping duration is a smaller fraction of the entire project timeline.

Increased safety and quality

With less labor on site, there are fewer injuries and health hazards. The factory-controlled environment enhances overall safety because of limited exposure to external elements and controlled working conditions. With a safer work environment, the onsite prefab team can conduct specialized work that maximizes their skills and the builder’s labor investment.

Building in a factory also allows for rigorous quality control measures for the modules. This results in higher-quality construction materials and better workmanship. It also allows for higher precision and replicability while lowering production costs due to automation. Then, inspecting and testing modules before shipping reduces the likelihood of defects and the need for rework at the construction site.

The prefab experts over at Digital Building Components say it best, “Our automated machines build your components directly from the model, eliminating the waste of paper drawings as well as the potential for human error. The result is a smarter, faster, and better way to deliver a building.” By building digitally, right off a model, they can incorporate project-specific creativity into their controlled prefabricated approach.

Reduced costs and impact

There are a handful of ways that offsite production can reduce the costs associated with shipping construction freight, but transportation and material waste savings are two of the most significant.

Efficiency in transporting construction freight

Transporting pre-assembled modules instead of traditional construction materials optimizes shipping for both space and efficiency. This allows for cost savings through the ability to include multiple modules in a single shipment, while also reducing logistical complexity and environmental impact.

While these loads may be larger than conventional construction freight, the overall reduction in the number of shipments not only results in cost savings but also minimizes disruption to the local community. Prefabricated modules facilitate compliance with strict construction rules on noise set by planning authorities, ensuring minimal impact on both costs and the community in which it is being built.

Choosing a logistics provider specialized in transporting prefabricated modules is paramount due to the unique challenges associated with their size and complexity. While these shipments may be larger, relying on a provider experienced in handling such loads ensures efficiency and minimizes the overall number of shipments. Failing to transport these panels properly can lead to costly consequences. A specialized logistics partner understands the intricacies of handling prefabricated modules, ensuring compliance with regulations, reducing the risk of damage, and safeguarding against logistical complexities that may arise.

Better control over materials

The construction process in a factory setting allows for better control over materials, resulting in minimized waste because products come pre-built and ready to install. There is also less chance of lost or misplaced materials.

Additionally, there is no need to store materials at the build site when building modules in a factory. This helps the construction site stay more compact. It also saves the time and budget typically necessary for storing construction freight, and the workforce to move materials back and forth.

More flexibility

Offsite construction offers flexibility in inventory management and transportation modes. Depending on the size and weight of a module, it can be transported by truck, train, or ship. This flexibility allows for optimization based on the specific needs and constraints of the project.

Factories can also maintain a steady supply chain of materials, ensuring that mods are readily available when needed. This can help avoid delays caused by shortages or unforeseen issues in the supply chain. This flexibility benefits both the timeline and budget of your project.

Finding a logistics partner

As offsite construction continues to grow, considering new construction freight shipping solutions is more important than ever. Contact our team today to learn more about how our logistics specialists can ensure the success of your next freight project.