Modular construction is setting a new course as cities in the Middle East region rapidly expand.
Aramex Logistics and Shipping Services for Modular Construction
Modular construction, an innovation revolutionising the construction landscape, is akin to building with life-sized Lego blocks. Imagine assembling an entire hotel, not brick by brick on-site, but by piecing together prefabricated modules crafted with precision in a controlled factory environment.
The Middle East modularisation market was worth nearly $500M in 2020 and is projected to reach over $740 million in 2030.
A striking example of modular construction is Stadium 974 in Qatar, developed for the FIFA 2022 World Cup. Designed by Fenwick Iribarren Architects, the 40,000-seat sports venue is a dazzling assemblage of colourful shipping containers and modular steel structures, parts of which will be recycled. But, more than just an architectural marvel, Stadium 974 also made history. It’s the first FIFA World Cup stadium designed to be fully demountable. This meant that, once the tournament concluded, the entire stadium would be dismantled and reassembled elsewhere or repurposed into smaller venues.
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This example is not an exception in the Middle East. Modular construction is setting a new course as cities in this region rapidly expand. In fact, the Middle East modularisation market was worth $492.1 million in 2020 and is projected to reach $747.1 million in 2030. With benefits such as reduced waste, faster construction times, and cost-effectiveness, the trend of modular construction is predicted to gain remarkable traction.
Aramex Logistics and Shipping Services for Modular Construction
Furthermore, a recent study anticipates a steady growth rate in the Middle East’s modular construction sector, with countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia leading the charge. This burgeoning interest is bolstered by ambitious sustainability goals and an increasing demand for efficient, smart city infrastructure.
A steady growth rate is anticipated in the Middle East’s modular construction sector, with countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia leading the charge.
However, with modular construction on the rise, it also creates unique logistical puzzles. How do businesses transport this intricate, oversized freight, and does a disrupted global supply chain offer another set of challenges? Below, in a four-step guide, we navigate the labyrinth that is the logistics of modular construction.
Taming the beast: oversized freight
Modular construction possesses a distinct characteristic – it facilitates the assembly of buildings off-site. However, this approach often results in oversized freight that surpasses the capacity of standard transportation vehicles. At this juncture, effective project management becomes crucial, encompassing an understanding of transportation regulations and demonstrating logistical proficiency. Moreover, the possibility of damages can be considerably reduced by aligning with seasoned partners in the transportation and logistics sector. Selecting an appropriate partner ensures that your oversized cargo receives meticulous handling, arrives intact, and adheres to the designated timeline.
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The ripple effect: raw material prices
The global pandemic has had substantial repercussions, notably elevating the cost of raw materials to unprecedented levels. In the face of this situation, strategic procurement, astute inventory management, and optimisation of resources emerge as crucial strategies. Consequently, it becomes imperative to maximise the utility of every unit of lumber and steel, thus ensuring effective and sustainable usage of these precious resources.
With modular construction, waste can be reduced to as low as 2-3% through a streamlined process, compared to average on-site construction waste, which is around 15%.
Aramex Logistics and Shipping Services for Modular Construction
With modular construction, waste can be reduced to as low as 2-3% through a streamlined process, compared to average on-site construction waste, which is around 15%.
The Unseen Hurdle: Specialty Transportation Equipment
Attempting to transport modular freight without suitable trailers can be compared to the futile endeavour of inserting a square peg into a round hole. The resolution lies in meticulous planning and developing resilient relationships with suppliers. Guaranteeing the availability of appropriate trailers when required can eliminate potential delays, ensuring the uninterrupted progression of the project.
Aramex Logistics and Shipping Services for Modular Construction
Navigating through uncertainty: employing the right technology
Modular construction can be likened to the construction of a large-scale, complex jigsaw puzzle. Any delay or mis-sequence in delivery can lead to a disarrayed outcome. Regrettably, the service of many transportation providers lacks transparency, as if operating in obscurity. The solution is to employ advanced tracking systems and cutting-edge digital technologies to gain better control over the process. In addition, real-time updates can significantly contribute to seamless on-site coordination, thereby ensuring the successful completion of the project.
Key takeaway
Advanced technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), VR/AR, IoT, and AI are reshaping the construction process, enabling superior project management, cost efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
This digital transformation significantly revolutionises the construction industry’s approach to design, planning, and execution.
The logistics of modular construction might seem like a daunting labyrinth, but with these insights, businesses can be more ready to tackle the twist and turn. Moreover, every challenge surmounted here means a smoother, cost-effective, and timely delivery, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in construction.
Aramex Logistics and Shipping Services for Modular Construction
