How Logistics and Collaboration Drive Successful Modular Construction
- Audree Grubesic
- 56 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Advancing Prefab 2026 | Heith Bibby & Audree Grubesic
At Advancing Prefab 2026, Offsite Dirt Network had the opportunity to sit down with Heith Bibby, CEO of Mandeville Modular, to discuss a critical yet often overlooked component of modular construction: logistics and transportation.
While modular construction is often celebrated for its efficiency and controlled factory environment, the journey from factory floor to final installation requires just as much strategic planning. From module design to sequencing and transportation, every step must be carefully coordinated to ensure a seamless assembly on site.
Designing Modular Systems with Logistics in Mind
According to Bibby, logistics is one of the first considerations when designing a modular building system.
“It’s great to build something,” Bibby explains, “but you also have to think about how you’re going to transport it and place it in its final location.”
At Mandeville Modular, this means designing units with critical lift points built directly into the system. These points act as clear guidance for crews responsible for moving and installing modules, ensuring that each component is handled correctly during transportation and installation.
Just like consumer products often show where a box should be lifted, modular units benefit from clearly defined pick points that reduce confusion and improve jobsite efficiency.
Sequencing Modules for Efficient Installation
One of the most important elements of modular construction happens during the set and assembly phase.
Mandeville Modular creates installation guidelines, sometimes referred to as a “cheat sheet,” to help contractors understand the correct sequencing of modules once they arrive on site. Installing modules out of order can complicate the assembly process and potentially delay the project.
By clearly mapping out where each module should be placed and when, Mandeville ensures the installation process remains organized and efficient.
Supporting Clients Beyond the Factory
Even when Mandeville Modular is not responsible for installation, the company often sends a representative to the project site to assist during the module set.
This extra level of involvement helps ensure that the building is assembled exactly as designed. The representative works alongside contractors and builders to guide the process and troubleshoot any challenges that arise during installation.
This approach reflects Mandeville’s commitment to delivering not just modular units, but a complete system designed for success.
Building Plug-and-Play Modular Systems
Another key focus for Mandeville Modular is creating plug-and-play systems for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing connections.
The goal is for modules to connect seamlessly during installation so that once the building is complete, the finished structure looks and functions like any traditional construction project. Ideally, occupants should never be able to tell that the building was assembled from individual modules.
Scaling Modular Projects
Mandeville Modular has worked on a wide range of projects, from smaller modular developments to large-scale structures.
Currently, the company is designing a 39-story high-end modular hotel in Hawaii, one of its most ambitious projects to date. In addition, the team is developing a 43,000-square-foot navigation center for the city of San Bernardino, which features one of the largest open interior spaces the company has built.
Projects of this scale require significant collaboration between engineers, architects, developers, and consultants.
Bibby emphasizes that successful modular projects begin with bringing together the right team.
“We like to start with the concept — even if it’s just a sketch on a cocktail napkin — and then bring the brightest minds together to make that vision a reality.”
The Role of Collaboration in Offsite Construction
One theme that continues to surface across the offsite construction industry is collaboration.
Bibby believes that innovation happens when companies share ideas, experiences, and lessons learned rather than keeping solutions to themselves.
“The day you stop learning is the day growth stops,” Bibby explains.
By working collaboratively across the industry, modular construction can continue evolving and expanding its role in the future of the built environment.
As offsite construction grows, conversations like this one highlight the importance of systems thinking, planning, and partnerships across every stage of a project.
FAQs
What role does logistics play in modular construction?
Logistics is critical in modular construction because modules must be transported safely from the factory to the job site and installed in the correct sequence. Proper planning ensures modules arrive safely and are assembled efficiently.
Why is sequencing important when installing modular units?
Sequencing determines the order in which modules are placed during installation. Installing modules in the wrong order can create complications during assembly and delay project completion.
How do modular manufacturers support job site installation?
Many modular manufacturers provide installation guidelines and may send representatives to job sites to assist contractors during the set and assembly phase. This helps ensure the building is installed as designed.
Comments