Heavy equipment transport from China
excavators, loaders and road construction machinery

An excavator, wheel loader or paver from the same series may be supplied with different booms, buckets, cabs, tyres and counterweights. A quotation based only on a catalogue link is therefore preliminary. The quotation requires actual dimensions in the transport position, operating and transport weights, load distribution at the support points, minimum ground clearance, centre of gravity and a diagram of approved lifting and securing points. The manufacturer or supplier must confirm the data.

Describe the machine’s operating condition separately. Confirm whether it can drive onto the platform under its own power, whether the brakes and steering work, whether any fluids are leaking, whether the battery is charged and whether the engine starts. Non-running machinery requires a winch, crane or another loading method. A hidden defect during loading endangers people and equipment, so broad descriptions such as “new” or “working” are insufficient.

Removing the bucket, boom, cab, wheels or counterweight may reduce the height, width or weight of the main cargo piece and open additional route options. Dismantling does not always reduce total cost: it creates additional cargo pieces, crane work, packaging, risk of damage to connections and subsequent reassembly. The decision is made after comparing the total cost of the two configurations, and the operations are performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions by qualified specialists.

Identify each removed part in accordance with the assembly diagram. Cap hoses and connectors against contamination, collect and label fasteners, and protect working surfaces. Heavy attachments require their own supports and securing; they cannot simply be treated as spare space on the platform. Before dispatch, confirm that the consignee has the crane, tools, consumables and documentation needed to reassemble the machinery safely.

After preparation, compact machinery may fit in a standard or High Cube container if it meets the door dimensions, weight limits and securing requirements. Enclosed transport protects against the external environment but can restrict access to securing points. A standard curtainsider is suitable only within its permitted dimensions and loads. Tall, wide, heavy or tracked machinery often requires a platform or low-loader.

Platform type is selected for the complete transport configuration and route. A low loading deck may reduce the overall height of the vehicle combination, but overall length, loading angles and axle-load distribution remain critical. Self-propelled loading is permitted only with a safe ramp, adequate traction and guidance from the responsible person. The deck is protected from tracks and wheels where necessary, while booms and articulated sections are secured in the transport position.

Oversized or heavy-transport status is determined from the actual dimensions and weights of the loaded vehicle combination and the rules in every country on the route. A single numerical threshold cannot be applied across an international corridor. Once the platform is selected, the route engineer checks permitted weights and axle loads, structure clearances, road widths, turning radii, roadworks, seasonal restrictions and access through control points.

Depending on the route, special permits, approvals, pilot vehicles, escorts or restrictions on travel times may be required. Authorised authorities and specialist participants in each jurisdiction confirm the applicable requirements. The logistics provider coordinates data collection and applications but cannot guarantee when a permit will be issued or what the authority will decide.

Recheck the route immediately before departure: a temporary restriction, bridge repair or weather change may invalidate the previous plan. Include time for route surveys and approvals in the schedule. For a critical delivery, consider a contingency route or a different degree of dismantling, but do not dispatch the machinery until every required approval has been obtained.

Before work starts, conduct a safety briefing and assign roles. The site must support the machinery’s weight and provide sufficient space and lighting. Load according to the agreed plan with no personnel in the danger zone. Once positioned, verify the centre of gravity and load distribution. Lower or secure the working attachments, lock articulated sections as instructed, and hand the keys and controls to the responsible person.

The securing calculation and instructions determine the number and specifications of chains, straps, chocks and anti-slip materials. Securing devices must not pass over vulnerable pipework, cylinders or cab components. After initial movement, the fastening is checked in a safe location, then monitored at specified intervals and after events that could weaken it. Photo recording complements, but does not replace, physical verification.

Commercial and transport documents must describe the machine and every removed part consistently. Verify serial numbers, number of cargo pieces, weight and value before dispatch. Import may require evidence of conformity, origin, safety or other characteristics. The required documents depend on the machinery’s type, intended use, condition and classification; confirm them in advance with a customs representative and the competent authorities. Transport advice does not replace a customs or legal opinion.

The total cost comprises collection, dismantling and packaging, crane work, transport equipment, permits, escorts, transit, transshipments, insurance and unloading. Seasonality, platform availability and route changes also affect the price. Lead time includes preparing the machinery and documents, engineering, approvals and the actual movement. Therefore, the final calculation is possible after receiving technical data, and the calendar is indicated as a range with a reserve.

The recipient prepares the site, crane or ramp, personnel and location for the removed parts in advance. Before unloading, documents, seals and visible condition are checked, fastenings and possible traces of displacement are photographed. Unloading is carried out according to a separate plan, because removing fasteners can change stability. Start-up is carried out after inspecting the levels, battery, connections and removing all transport locks according to the manufacturer's instructions.