Rig Move Planning in Saudi Arabia: 6 Proven Steps

Rig move planning: Short answer: a land rig move in Saudi Arabia is a planned sequence of rig-down, transport and rig-up. It needs the right mix of low-beds, flatbeds, cranes and forklifts, support equipment such as compressors, welding machines, generators and tower lights, and a trained crew led by a move supervisor. Good planning before the first load leaves the old location is what keeps the move on schedule.

1. Survey the route and the new location

Check the distance, road and desert track conditions, bridges, power lines and permits. Confirm the new pad is prepared, compacted and level. Our civil support crews can build rig pads and access roads.

2. Build the load list

List every component with its size and weight: substructure, mast, drawworks, mud tanks, pumps, generators, camp cabins. The load list decides how many low-beds, hydraulic low-beds and flatbeds you need, and which crane capacity.

3. Plan the equipment

• Normal and hydraulic low-beds for heavy and tall loads
• Flatbed trailers and dynas for smaller components
• Mobile cranes and forklifts for rig-down and rig-up
• Air compressors, welding machines and generators
• Tower lights and man lifts for night work
• Escort vehicles and pick-ups for crews

4. Sequence rig-down, transport and rig-up

Agree the sequence with the rig manager so the first loads to arrive are the first needed at the new location. Lifts follow a lift plan, and riggers and banksmen work to the site permit-to-work system.

5. Move the camp

Relocate porta cabins, washrooms, water tanks and generators so the crew has accommodation at the new site from day one.

6. Close out

Inspect the old location, collect all loads and record the move time for the next plan.

Ariane Ventures provides complete rig move services with transport, lifting, support equipment, camp relocation and supervision across the Kingdom.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a rig move take?

It depends on rig size, distance and route. A good load list and sequence plan, agreed in advance, is the main factor in shortening move time.

What is a hydraulic low-bed used for in a rig move?

Its deck can be raised, lowered and steered hydraulically, which helps with heavy, tall or awkward rig components and difficult access.

In short: good rig move planning decisions come from clear scope, the right documents and a partner who can mobilise quickly. Ariane Ventures, a registered Saudi Aramco vendor, can help with rig move planning questions and quotations across Saudi Arabia; contact us on WhatsApp or through the quote form.