Project cargo shipping for construction equipment and building materials machinery
Construction equipment such as excavators, loaders and cranes is mostly out of gauge. Self-propelled units ship ro-ro, others on flat rack or break bulk; securing and weight distribution are central to the plan.
Typical machines and equipment
- Excavators and loaders
- Concrete plants and mixers
- Crane and tower crane parts
- Asphalt and aggregate plants
- Brick, cement and precast production lines
- Dozers, graders and rollers
What to watch in transit
- Tracked machines: suitability of floor and ramp
- Dismantling long booms and carrying them separately
- Weight distribution and securing of heavy parts
- Recording remaining fuel, oil and battery on the paperwork
Suitable equipment and method
- Ro-ro: For self-propelled construction machines.
- Flat rack: For machines split into parts or exceeding container width.
- Break bulk: For very large plant parts and heavy modules.
What we need to plan
- Operating weight and transport dimensions
- Dismantling plan (boom, bucket, tracks)
- Ramp or crane availability at the loading site
- Oil, fuel and battery status
Frequently asked questions
How is an excavator transported?
A self-propelled excavator ships ro-ro or on a flat rack. The boom and bucket are removed if needed and the machine is secured with chains and straps. Dimensions and operating weight are needed for the plan.
What is ro-ro shipping and which cargo suits it?
Ro-ro is carriage where wheeled or tracked cargo is driven or towed onto the vessel. It suits self-propelled machinery and vehicles; size and weight must fit the ship's ramp.
What is lashing and why is it needed?
Lashing is securing cargo with chains, straps and wedges so it cannot shift or tip during sea and road transport. It is the basis of safe carriage for heavy and oversize machinery and is planned by weight, centre of gravity and method.
What does out-of-gauge cargo mean?
Cargo exceeding the internal length, width or height of a standard container is out of gauge. It travels on flat rack or open top equipment, often with special permits and a securing plan.
What are the dimensions and weight limit of a flat rack container?
A flat rack is a platform-type container without side walls or a roof, available in 20 ft and 40 ft versions. Dimensions and payload vary by manufacturer. Detailed values are in our Container Dimensions tool.