A Freight Guide to Moving Heavy Machinery

Transporting heavy machinery is one of the most complicated tasks in terms of freight logistics because of the sheer weight of the cargo to be transported. A lot of heavy machinery and equipment weight more than a 100 tonnes, and hence the freight equipment required to move these items from one place to another needs to be very strong. Below the issues and solutions:

• Since heavy machinery cannot be fitted into regular sized containers because of their size, they are classified as “heavy lift cargo.” Most freight companies will not agree to standardise the transport of heavy machinery, and such cargo has to be freighted on a project basis. When this machinery has to be freighted between two countries, it is important to choose the right freight company with sufficient experience so that all the freight rules and regulations of the different countries as well as permits and other problems can be taken care of by the freight company.
• The transport of heavy machinery by road usually involves commissioning special trucks with flatbed trailers that can accommodate the loading of heavy machinery and equipment. Some freight companies prefer sending heavy machinery by air in order to cut down on the time taken to transport the items. For this purpose, there are special cargo aircrafts that have been built like the Antonov AN-225.
• Transporting heavy machinery by air is usually a very expensive proposition, so unless speed is an absolute necessity, it is not advised. Additionally, heavy machinery can be transported by water. This method is probably the most economical and there are various methods available for heavy machinery transport in both inland waters and by sea.

While considering which company to choose to transport heavy machinery, it is important to consider fright companies that provide storage and maintenance facilities for the machinery before and after they have been transported. It is also crucial to check the previous history of these companies for relevant experience and thoroughness.

Return to Articles page.

SJ International Freight Services Limited, UK have head offices in Bristol, England and Cardiff, South Wales.

Tel: +44 (0)117 932 1160
Fax: +44 (0)117 932 6572
Email: Bob.Feltham@rsj-international.co.uk~
or Steve.Frost@rsj-international.co.uk

Unit 16, Keynsham Road, Willsbridge, Bristol, UK.