
Shipping industrial, commercial, or agricultural equipment overseas can be a complex process. So read on, and learn more about what you should be considering when planning to ship your equipment internationally.
What’s The Best Method Of Shipping Equipment Overseas?
If your equipment (such as a bulldozer or tractor) can move under its own power, it will likely be shipped using RoRo (Roll On, Roll Off) ocean-going freight. Equipment that can’t move will be shipped in a cargo container if it fits, or on a flat rack.
In RoRo shipping, your vehicle will simply be driven on and off of a specialized cargo ship that’s sort of like a giant, floating parking garage. Non-wheeled equipment will be transported in a cargo container if it will fit. If the equipment does not fit in a cargo container, it may be transported on a large, flat-rack shipping container that will keep it safe and contained during the transportation process.
Air freight shipping is almost never used for equipment shipping, because it’s extraordinarily expensive, particularly for very heavy and bulky pieces of equipment. However, it is an option for very important or time-sensitive shipments.
What Do I Need To Do To Pass Customs When Shipping Equipment Overseas?
This will vary depending on the country where you’re shipping your equipment. In general, though, you’ll need to secure and fill out the proper customs forms, have a bill of lading and/or cargo manifest, and proof of ownership or other paperwork that proves who owns the equipment.
Your overseas equipment shipping company will help you secure the proper forms and paperwork, understand customs duties or taxes you’ll pay, and walk you through the process of shipping your equipment overseas.
How Much Will It Cost To Ship Equipment Overseas?
There is no set cost for shipping equipment overseas. Every project is different, so you will need to get a quote from a company such as A-1 Auto Transport. Factors that affect the cost of your job include the type of equipment, its total size and weight, whether or not it fits into a cargo container, the origin point and destination, and much more.
It may be a good idea to consult with multiple equipment shipping companies to see how much you will pay. This ensures you’re paying a reasonable, industry-standard rate. Before you contact an equipment shipping company, make sure you can provide accurate and thorough information about your equipment. This ensures you’ll get an accurate quote.
Contact A-1 Auto Transport To Ship Your Equipment Safely Anywhere In The World
If you want to ship equipment overseas, A-1 Auto Transport is here to help you. With our extensive network of logistics specialists, we’ll ensure a safe, timely, and on-budget delivery for your valuable industrial, agricultural, or commercial equipment. Contact us online or call now to get started.

Written By:Joe Webster


Joe Webster began his journey in the auto transport field by attending the University of Southern California (USC), where he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Marketing.
After college, he started his career in the auto transport industry from the bottom up and has done virtually every job there is to do at A-1 Auto Transport, including but not limited to: Truck Driver, Dispatch, Sales, PR, Bookkeeping, Transport Planner, Transport Manager, International Transport Manager, Brokering, Customer Service, and Marketing. Working with his mentor Tony Taylor, Joe Webster has learned the ins and outs of this industry which is largely misunderstood.
With over 30 years experience in the industry, we've been helping people ship their vehicles, motorcycles, RV's, heavy equipment, household goods and more across the country or overseas without a hitch. Ask us anything.
Email me - info@a1autotransport.com