The shipping industry has seen remarkable growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for transporting goods across the country and internationally. Among the vast quantities of freight moved each year, a significant portion consists of heavy machinery. Shipping such machinery is a complex and specialized task, requiring careful planning, the right equipment, and an in-depth understanding of the process.
Moving Heavy Machinery
Moving heavy machinery, especially across long distances or overseas, presents unique challenges. It often involves oversized or irregularly shaped equipment that cannot be easily transported using standard methods. In most cases, the task is too big to be handled alone, necessitating the services of a machinery shipping company with expertise in moving heavy freight. These companies use modern shipping technology specifically designed for handling heavy and oversized machinery.
However, this process is not without risks. Heavy machinery shipping is a dangerous and challenging job that requires meticulous attention to detail throughout the entire journey. A single mistake, such as improperly loaded or secured machinery or loose equipment, can lead to severe consequences, including damage to the cargo, accidents, or even endangering lives on the road. Given the complexity and potential hazards involved, it is vital to be well-informed and fully prepared before embarking on the machinery shipping process.
Creating the Machinery Shipment Listing
The first step in shipping heavy machinery is creating a shipment listing. This listing serves as a comprehensive document that answers key questions and provides essential details to the shipping company. It helps the company determine the type of transport required and whether any special accommodations or services are necessary for a particular piece of machinery. The information provided in the listing also enables the company to offer a fair and accurate shipping quote.
When creating a shipment listing, you will typically need to provide the following details:
- Density of the item: This refers to the weight and space the machinery occupies, which is crucial for determining shipping rates.
- Make and model of the machinery.
- Number of items to be shipped.
- Trailer preference: Indicate whether the machinery is already on a trailer or if you have a specific trailer preference.
- Photos of the machinery: Clear images help the shipping company assess the condition and requirements.
- Additional details: Any other relevant information about the machinery being shipped.
- Pickup and delivery information: Include the pickup date, time, and location, as well as the expected delivery date and location.
Determining the Density of Your Heavy Machinery
The density of the machinery plays a pivotal role in calculating shipping costs. Due to the size and irregular shape of heavy machinery, its density is often calculated based on its total maximum size, as if it were stored in a large shipping crate. The process for determining density involves three steps:
- Measure the dimensions: Measure the length, width, and height of the machinery.
- Calculate the volume: Multiply the dimensions to obtain the volume in cubic inches. If shipping multiple items, repeat the process for each and sum the total volume.
- Convert to cubic feet: Divide the volume by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches in a cubic foot).
- Calculate density: Divide the weight (in pounds) by the total cubic feet. The result, in pounds per cubic foot, is the machinery’s density.
Understanding the density of your shipment allows the shipping company to determine the space and weight your machinery will occupy and assess whether special accommodations are needed.
Unexpected Challenges in Heavy Machinery Shipping
While the basic steps of shipping heavy machinery might seem straightforward, there are several often-overlooked challenges that can complicate the process. These are some occurrences that people wish they had considered before shipping:
- Permits and Regulations: Oversized loads often require special permits, which can vary depending on the route and destination. Some machinery might even be too tall for certain roads, requiring route adjustments to avoid bridges or power lines.
- Weather Protection: Many people overlook the importance of protecting machinery from the elements. Exposure to rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures can cause damage, particularly to sensitive parts.
- Disassembly Requirements: Some machinery may be too large or complex to transport in one piece. Disassembling and properly securing parts before shipping can prevent damage during transit.
- Loading and Unloading Challenges: Having the right equipment to load and unload heavy machinery is crucial. Depending on the type of machinery, you might need cranes, forklifts, or specialized trailers.
- Insurance Coverage: Not all insurance policies cover every potential issue during transport. Understanding what is and isn't covered can prevent unpleasant surprises in the event of an accident or damage.
The Role of Liners in Machinery Shipping
One critical yet often underestimated aspect of machinery shipping is the selection of the correct liner. Liners play a pivotal role in protecting heavy machinery during transit, especially when shipping over long distances or in adverse weather conditions.
The primary function of a liner is to shield the machinery from external elements, such as moisture, dirt, and temperature fluctuations, which can cause rust, corrosion, or other forms of damage. A high-quality liner ensures that the machinery arrives at its destination in the same condition it was in when it was loaded.
Moreover, the correct liner can prevent shifting during transport, which is particularly important for oversized or irregularly shaped machinery. Shifting can lead to instability, increasing the risk of accidents or damage. By securing the machinery in place, a proper liner minimizes movement and provides an additional layer of protection.
In addition, some liners offer specialized features, such as fire retardancy, UV resistance, or chemical resistance, making them suitable for transporting machinery with specific vulnerabilities or in particular environments.
Preparing for Shipment: Essential Steps
Preparing heavy machinery for shipment involves several critical steps to ensure a smooth and safe transport process:
- Obtain Required Permits: Familiarize yourself with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines and secure any necessary permits for transporting oversized loads. Early preparation can prevent delays and legal complications.
- Review the Machinery Manual: The manufacturer’s manual often contains specific instructions for preparing the machinery for transport. This might include disconnecting batteries, securing loose parts, or disassembling components.
- Protect Exposed Parts: Use appropriate covers or liners to shield the machinery from environmental factors during transit. This step is crucial for preventing damage from rain, dirt, or extreme temperatures.
- Ensure Proper Loading and Unloading: Designate a spacious area for loading and unloading the machinery and have the necessary equipment on hand. Whether the machinery needs to be driven, lifted, or craned onto the transport vehicle, being prepared is essential.
Conclusion
Shipping heavy machinery is a complex and demanding task that requires careful planning, specialized equipment, and attention to detail. From understanding the density of your shipment to selecting the correct liner, every step plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and successful transport of your machinery.
By partnering with an experienced heavy machinery shipping company and being aware of the potential challenges, you can navigate the process with confidence. Proper preparation, including securing permits, protecting the machinery from the elements, and ensuring proper loading and unloading, can prevent costly mistakes and ensure that your machinery arrives safely at its destination.
In the ever-growing shipping industry, where the demand for moving services remains high, staying informed and prepared is the key to success. Whether you are shipping across town or across the globe, understanding the intricacies of heavy machinery shipping will help you avoid pitfalls and achieve a smooth and efficient transport process.
