1. Toe Jacks
It's the first step in the process. Because heavy machinery usually has very little ground clearance, a standard jack won't fit underneath.
Their specialty: They have a low "toe" that can slide under the machine even if there is a gap of just a few centimeters.
Function: They use hydraulic pressure to lift the machine as much as necessary to install the skids.
2. Load Skates / Dollies
After the machine is lifted, the skids are placed at its corners.
Composition: They consist of durable rollers (usually made of polyurethane) that withstand tons of pressure without damaging the industrial floor.
Flexibility: There are fixed skates and steerable skates, which have a steering wheel to direct the load around corners.
How do they work together in practice?
Lifting: The jack lifts one side of the machine.
Installation: Slide the skates under the support points.
Descent: The jack lowers the machine onto the skids.
Transportation: The machine now "floats" on the rollers and can be moved by pushing or with the help of another vehicle.
Important: The use of these means always requires a flat and clean floor, as even a small pebble can block the rollers of a scooter under the weight of several tons.