Wherever you are, we are: How SMS Equipment supports your remote operations

Originating in Komatsu Germany Mining’s Düsseldorf factory, this shovel made an epic journey — by sea, road and rail — to Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador, a voyage taking over a month and traversing almost 7,000 kilometres.

This kind of transportation project is not for the faint of heart.

“Transporting large equipment to remote sites involves complex logistics to ensure a safe and efficient execution,” says Carolina Ribeiro, Logistics Coordinator at SMS Equipment. From initial discussion to assembly, a transportation project can take three to four months of planning and execution and requires collaboration among several parties: OEMs, carriers, site crews and logistics teams.

Details such as routes, permits, modes of transport, bridge capacities, height restrictions, road conditions, port access and last-mile challenges must all be accounted for. Remote and seasonally accessible areas have additional considerations, but our logistics team works closely with our trusted vendors and partners to ensure everything is accounted for. “Through detailed planning and clear communication, we ensure every project’s success,” says Ribeiro.

With the plan mapped out, the PC7000-11 was fully assembled and tested at the factory, and the mine operator conducted its inspection. The equipment was then dismantled and packaged for shipping, embarking on the next leg of its travels.

When the PC7000-11 arrived at the mine site, the team from our Wabush branch began assembly. It’s a complex undertaking as it is, but this was Northern Labrador, in winter. Weather conditions proved challenging: extreme cold, high winds and blowing snow slowed the process. With safety being paramount, the team had to take breaks to escape the cold, while personal protective equipment and heaters helped them stay warm as they worked. Despite the challenges, the team fully assembled this powerhouse right on schedule.