Shipping Heavy Machinery: A Complete Guide for Global Equipment Transport
Shipping heavy machinery involves much more than just loading equipment onto a trailer or vessel. Whether you’re moving construction equipment across the country or exporting industrial machines overseas, success depends on the right method, documentation, and logistics support.
At Royal Shipping Lines, we specialize in domestic and international heavy machinery transport. This guide covers everything you need to know to move your equipment safely, legally, and cost-effectively.
🏗️ What Is Considered Heavy Machinery in Shipping?
Heavy machinery refers to large, often immobile or self-propelled equipment used in construction, agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Common examples include:
Excavators
Bulldozers
Tractors
Cranes
Drilling rigs
CNC machines
Before you ship, you must know your equipment’s specifications—dimensions, weight, and mobility—which will determine the best shipping method and whether permits are needed.
🚢 Best Shipping Methods for Heavy Equipment
The right heavy machinery shipping method depends on your equipment’s size, configuration, and destination:
1. Ro-Ro Shipping (Roll-on/Roll-off)
Ideal for wheeled or self-propelled machinery
Equipment is driven onto the vessel and secured below deck
Fast and cost-effective for international transport
2. Flat Rack Container Shipping
Used for oversized or irregularly shaped machinery
Machinery is lashed onto an open container frame
Provides secure transport for non-containerizable cargo
3. Breakbulk Shipping
Best for extra-large, disassembled, or static machines
Machinery is individually loaded and secured on the ship’s deck or hold
Allows for flexibility with unusual dimensions
4. Lowboy or Step Deck Trailers (Domestic)
Common for ground transport within the U.S.
Designed for heavy loads and tall equipment
Each method has trade-offs in terms of cost, transit time, and protection, which our experts can help evaluate.
🔧 How to Prepare Heavy Machinery for Shipment
Preparation is critical to avoid damage, delays, or customs issues. Follow these steps:
🔧 Drain fluids (fuel, oil, coolant) to prevent leaks
🔋 Disconnect batteries and secure all electrical connections
🔐 Lock or remove moving parts like arms or blades
💦 Power wash the machinery to remove dirt, grease, and contaminants
🏷️ Label disassembled parts for easy reassembly
Tip: Clean equipment is a requirement for international shipments to pass agricultural inspections.
📄 Required Documents for Heavy Machinery Shipping
Proper paperwork ensures smooth customs clearance and legal compliance. You’ll typically need:
Bill of Lading (BOL)
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Import/Export Licenses (if applicable)
Harmonized System (HS) Codes
Insurance Certificate
EPA or emissions compliance forms (for applicable machines)
Working with an experienced freight forwarder like Royal Shipping Lines helps ensure your documents are complete and accurate.
🌍 Why Choose Royal Shipping Lines for Machinery Shipping?
At Royal Shipping Lines, we’ve handled thousands of complex machinery shipments worldwide. We offer:
🌐 International and domestic heavy equipment transport
📦 Crating, containerization, and securement services
🚛 Door-to-door and port-to-port logistics
✅ Customs clearance and import/export compliance
🛡️ Insurance and real-time tracking
Our logistics specialists help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure on-time delivery—every time.
🚀 Final Thoughts: Make Heavy Machinery Shipping Hassle-Free
Shipping heavy equipment doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right planning, professional documentation, and a reliable logistics partner, you can transport your machinery safely, legally, and affordably.
Get in touch with Royal Shipping Lines today for a customized logistics plan tailored to your equipment and destination.
📞Office: +1 (305) 884-8127
📱 WhatsApp: +1 (305) 979-3596
📧 Email: info@royalshippinglines.com