Guide to Ship Heavy Machinery and Equipment

Our Guide to Heavy Equipment Shipping

Shipping heavy equipment requires precision, planning, and expertise to ensure everything arrives safely and on time. Bay Area Crating Services specializes in heavy equipment shipping, providing tailored solutions for machinery of all shapes and sizes. This guide breaks down the process step by step, offering insights gathered from our years of hands-on experience. If moving industrial machines locally or across the country, we aim to simplify the logistics while keeping your equipment protected every mile of the way. Discover how we can support your transportation needs with efficiency and care.

How to Plan for Heavy Equipment Shipping

Proper planning is essential when preparing heavy equipment for shipping. Effective heavy equipment crating, careful pre-shipment planning, and choosing the right transport partner all play key roles in ensuring a smooth process. Taking the time to organize these steps will protect your machinery while saving your time and money. Below, we’ve outlined important considerations to make your shipping experience easy and efficient:

• Assess the Equipment’s Size and Weight – Measure the dimensions and weight of each item before scheduling transport. This helps determine the right crate size and shipping method.
• Clean and Inspect the Machinery – Remove dirt, debris, and loose parts to prevent damage during transit. A clean inspection also helps identify any existing wear or issues.
• Drain Fluids and Disconnect Batteries – Fluids can leak and cause damage, so they should be drained before crating. Disconnecting batteries helps prevent electrical issues and keeps the equipment safe.
• Secure Moving Parts and Attachments – Lock or tie down any parts that could shift or detach during transport. This reduces the risk of internal damage and maintains the crate’s stability.
• Choose a Certified Shipping Company – Work with a provider that specializes in heavy equipment crating and meets export standards. Certification ensures your shipment complies with international regulations.
• Confirm Destination Requirements – Check if the receiving county or location has specific rules or documentation needs. This helps avoid customs delays and ensures smooth delivery.

Types of Equipment Commonly Shipped

Heavy machinery moves across borders every day, and each shipment requires careful handling. If you’re shipping construction equipment or shipping equipment overseas, knowing what types of items are commonly shipped in crates helps you plan better. Each item or category of items comes with unique transportation challenges and requires different levels of handling, packaging, and expertise. Below is a breakdown of the types of equipment commonly shipped:

• Construction Machinery – Excavators, bulldozers, and cranes are often shipped to job sites across the country or overseas. These machines require reinforced crates and secure tie-downs to prevent shifting during transit.
• Medical Devices – MRI machines, CT scanners, and surgical tables are crated with shock-absorbing materials. These items must be packed with precision to protect sensitive components.
• Aerospace Components – Jet engines, fuselage sections, and wing assemblies are shipped in custom crates built to exact specifications. These crates often include internal supports to prevent movement and vibration.
• Electronics and AV Gear – Servers, broadcasting systems, and large-scale audio setups are packed with anti-static and cushioning materials. Proper crating ensures these systems arrive ready for installation.

Regulatory Requirements and Permits

Transporting heavy machinery across borders demands full compliance with permits and regulatory standards. In the United States, shipping oversized or overweight equipment involves securing state-issued permits based on the load’s dimensions and weight. These permits may also include routine restrictions, escort vehicle requirements, and time limitations for travel. In Canada, provincial permits are required for oversize loads, and all machinery must meet U.S. environmental standards before crossing the border. Heavy equipment crating must also comply with international packaging regulations, including ISPM 15 for wood materials. Working with a certified carrier and customs broker ensures your shipment moves legally, safely, and without delay.

Why Custom Crates Matter for Heavy Equipment

Strong, well-built crates are essential for safe excavator shipping and other large machinery transport. Custom creates a match for the exact dimensions and weight of each item, which helps prevent shifting and damage during transit. Reinforced corners and balanced weight distribution keep the crate stable while in motion. Padding and foam inserts protect internal components from vibration, shock, and impact. For international shipments, crates must meet ISPM 15 standards, using heat-treated wood stamped for export compliance. These features work together to ensure your equipment arrives intact, ready for use, and fully protected from start to finish.

Ensure Your Heavy Equipment Is Protected

Heavy equipment shipping works best when every step is planned and executed with precision. Our guide gives you the tools to prepare, pack, and ship machinery with confidence. Bay Area Crating Services offers custom crating, certified packaging, and fast service across the Bay Area. If you’re moving excavators, construction gear, or oversized equipment, we’re ready to help. Reach out today for a free quote, and let’s get your shipment moving safely, quickly, and without delays.