O’Neill’s Heavy Haulage Named Specialist Sector Operator

O'Neill's Heavy Haulage : The Limerick-based company, renowned for its exceptional team, innovative solutions, and record-setting projects, continues to lead the way in transporting heavy and abnormal loads across Ireland, the UK, and Europe. O'Neill's Heavy Haulage, based in Hospital, Co Limerick, has been named Specialist Sector Haulage Operator of the Year 2025 at the Fleet Transport Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights the company's expertise in transporting heavy and abnormal loads across Ireland, the UK, and Europe.

Renowned for its exceptional management team, skilled equipment operators, and state-of-the-art specialised equipment, O'Neill's consistently delivers innovative, cost-effective solutions to even the most complex transport challenges.

With a fleet that includes Volvo, Scania, and DAF tractor units, as well as an extensive range of specialist trailers featuring hydraulic and air suspension systems, the company is equipped to handle the heaviest and most demanding projects. Its services extend far beyond transportation, including route surveys, securing permits, removing obstacles, and liaising with Gardai or police forces. O'Neill's also manages third-party equipment such as cranes, ensuring seamless delivery of oversized and abnormal loads.

And the fleet is meticulously maintained in-house using the company's brake tester and shaker facilities, guaranteeing reliability and readiness for every project. Over the years, O'Neill's, which has been operating for 77 years, has set records for transporting the longest, widest, and heaviest loads on Irish roads. Notable projects include the delivery of The Spire on Dublin's O'Connell Street and the record-breaking transfer of a sugar-making plant from Carlow to Mallow, with a total convoy weight exceeding 1,000 tonnes.

This award is a testament to the company's reputation for excellence, its long-standing commitment to its clients, and its ability to overcome the unique challenges of heavy and abnormal load haulage. Winning the award is a significant achievement for O'Neill's. For managing director Jimmy O'Neill, the award represents a lifetime of hard work and dedication to building a company that is trusted across Ireland and abroad. "This achievement wouldn't have been possible without the dedication of all our drivers, support staff, and everyone involved," Jimmy reflects. "Our drivers have always delivered on time and in perfect condition - no scratches, no dents - ensuring we maintain an impeccable reputation." It's the culmination of years of effort, highlighting a team that operates with professionalism and reliability day and night.

"Some of our drivers have been with us for nearly 15 years, and the relationship we've built over that time is top-class. I have complete trust in them - they know exactly what needs to be done, whether it's delivering to a wind farm or another site. I don't have to oversee every step because the team takes care of everything.

I can be at home, knowing the job is handled perfectly. The drivers follow every sequence, coordinate deliveries seamlessly, and even liaise with the Gardai when needed. That level of experience and trust is invaluable - it's what makes our team so strong."

The company's reputation is built on its unwavering commitment to excellence, even in the most challenging circumstances. Previously shortlisted in 2021, Jimmy believes this recognition was well-earned: "We work really hard in a very challenging sector. But we always deliver, and the reputation we've built is proof of that." O'Neill's stands out for its ability to navigate tough conditions, such as transporting 60- to 70-meter-long loads on narrow Irish roads - tasks that demand exceptional skill. "When people see our trucks on the road, they notice our drivers' professionalism and the high standard of work we deliver," Jimmy notes.

What truly sets O'Neill's apart is its trust-based, customer-focused approach. "It's a personal touch that we provide, and we always deliver for the client on time." The company prides itself on saying "yes" to clients' needs, offering reliability and peace of mind in an industry where delays are costly. "The client is very happy with things that are handled by us," adds Jimmy. With a combination of trusted relationships, high standards, and industry-leading expertise, O'Neill's continues to raise the bar for specialised transport services.

Looking ahead, the company has entered an exciting new chapter as Michael O'Neill takes over the general running of the company. Michael, who previously worked as an engineer with Intel, made the decision to join the family business a few years ago. "What actually happened was he text me at the time that he was either moving to Australia or coming to work with me, so he made the choice and stayed here," Jimmy recalls.

Now, Michael's ambition and fresh ideas are driving the company forward, ensuring its reputation for excellence continues to thrive while exploring new opportunities in the heavy haulage sector. For Jimmy, this transition marks the fulfilment of a long-held hope to keep the business within the family. As he takes a backseat to focus more on his pub business, Jimmy is optimistic about the company's future under Michael's leadership.

Looking ahead, Jimmy envisions O'Neill's Heavy Haulage going from strength to strength, with the potential for future generations of the O'Neill family to play a role in the business.

It's a testament to the legacy of a company that has been a cornerstone of the industry for 77 years - and one that is set to endure for many more.

Transport & Logistics - Driving The Industry Forward