Installation of Silos

You want to have a new silo installed without interrupting production. Encouraging news: with the right preparation and an experienced partner, this can be achieved in a safe, fast and predictable way. This article explains how silo positioning is achieved, what decisions are made at each step, and how risks can be mitigated. We make use of practical experience in the food, pharmaceutical and industrial sectors and provide you with concrete checklists. This way, you are fully aware of the situation.

What does the “installation of silos” mean in your factory?

The issue concerns not only how a silo is placed in the right location, but also the methods to achieve this without unforeseen planning, safety and budget complications. It includes three essential facets: sophisticated logistics, an appropriate lifting plan and careful on-site execution. In the food and pharmaceutical sectors, it is very important to operate in a hygienic, safe and traceable manner, with minimal downtime and clear documentation.

How does the installation of silos take place step by step?

• Preparation and recording: We start with a location check. What is the route in? How load-bearing is the floor? Are there any obstacles or ATEX zones? We measure everything and coordinate the foundation and anchor plan.
• Transport and permits: depending on the dimensions and weight, we organize exceptional transport, route guidance and traffic measures. Your schedule and our transport plan are in line with each other.
• Lifting plan and crane selection: we choose equipment based on load, flight and environment. In tight halls, we work with electric compact cranes in low emissions; outside, we opt for truck-mounted cranes with sufficient reach. We record everything in a lifting plan, including TRA and toolbox.
• Assembly and alignment: the silo is hoisted, positioned with taglines, aligned to tolerance and anchored according to plan. Where necessary, we use aerial work platforms and fall protection.
• Connect and deliver: after cold or heat tests, cleaning where necessary and visual checks, we provide certificates, inspection and measurement reports.

What industries does this work for?

• Food and beverages: flour silos, sugar silos, granules and liquid ingredients. Hygiene and cleaning are key.
• Pharmacy/medication: working in controlled zones, traceable materials and clear delivery files.
• Chemistry and plastics: extra attention to ATEX, dedusting and safe working procedures.
• General production and packaging: flexible planning around production changes and weekend stops.

What equipment do we use for silo installation?

• Truck-mounted cranes and special transport: ideal for precision long-flight installation.
• Compact electric mini cranes: silent and low-emission indoors, perfect in tight passageways.
• Aerial work platforms and fall protection: working safely at height with the right means of access.
• Rigging and tooling: skates, jacks, air cushions and laser measurement for millimetre work.

What information do you need for a quote?

• Silo specifications: material (stainless steel/steel), diameter/height, weight, lifting points, nozzles and any plates/steps.
• Location and accessibility: crane location, load capacity, obstacles, passageways, inside/outside and any ATEX zones.
• Drawings and planning: foundation plan, situation drawing, desired output window, work permits and requirements for delivery documentation.

What makes Pol Industrial Movements the right choice?

• One control partner: transport, compact lifting and access equipment under one roof. No switching between suppliers, but speed and overview.
• We have our own equipment and experienced teams, including electric mini cranes, truck-mounted cranes and aerial work platforms, with professionals who work in factories every day.
• Safety first: VCA method, formal lifting plan, TRA and demonstrable inspections.
• Minimal downtime: planning for your production, weekend stops and clear milestones.
• Complete package: disassembly, packaging/packing, transport, installation and temporary storage.

Useful links within our network

• Heavy and exceptional transport: route, exemptions and execution (https://www.pol-transport.nl/diensten/transport)
• Compact lifting equipment (electric mini cranes): ideal for interior work (https://www.pol-compactlifting.nl/)
• Renting aerial work platforms: working safely and efficiently at height (https://www.pol-hoogwerkers.nl/)
• Industrial removals (cases): inspiration from practice (https://www.pol-transport.nl/projecten/machine-verhuizingen---industriele-verhuizingen)

Frequently asked questions about the installation of silos

• How long does installation take? Usually 1 to 3 days on site, depending on weight, range and whether it's indoors or outdoors. Permits and engineering are scheduled in advance.
• Can you work inside a factory? Yes. We use electric compact cranes and low-emission equipment. We check routing, floor loads and obstacles beforehand.
• Do you arrange permits and traffic measures? Yes. We provide the route for exceptional transport, depots, road plates and any road closures together with partners.
• Do you also do foundation and civil? We coordinate with your manufacturer or civil partner. On request, we engage permanent partners and monitor the schedule.
• What documents will I receive afterwards? Lifting plan, inspection certificates, welding records where relevant, LMRA/TRA and delivery report; supplemented with cleaning or validation reports if required.

Installing a silo can take place efficiently, without complications and without unnecessary interruptions, provided that you work carefully. With one fixed point of contact, expert teams and the appropriate equipment, you guarantee control over time, costs and safety. Would you like to have your silo fully installed? Schedule a location shot today or send your sketches for review for a customized proposal.