Shipment Overview
| Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Mode of Transport | Sea Freight – Door-to-Door DDP |
| Origin | Qingdao, China |
| Destination | USA (Client’s Warehouse) |
| Commodity | Excavator |
| HS Code | 8429521200 |
| Packaging | 1 Wooden Crate |
| Total Weight | 1,100 KG |
| Total Volume | 5.256 CBM |
| Shipping Method | Flat Rack, Ro-Ro, or Containerized Freight |
| Transit Time | 30-35 Days |
Shipping large construction equipment like excavators requires careful planning to ensure safe transport, regulatory compliance, and efficient delivery. This case study details the successful door-to-door shipment of an excavator from Qingdao, China, to a customer in the USA, with full customs clearance and last-mile delivery.
With door-to-door logistics, the customer avoided complex customs processes, import duties, and coordination of inland transport, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective shipping experience.
Why Choose Door-to-Door Sea Freight for Heavy Machinery?
- Hassle-Free Logistics – We handle export clearance, sea freight, customs duties, and final delivery.
- Cost Savings – Lower per-unit cost compared to air freight.
- Secure & Stable Transport – Excavators are safely transported using Ro-Ro, containerized, or flat rack methods.
- Predictable Costs – No hidden fees or unexpected customs charges with DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) service.
Key Shipping Considerations
1. Cargo Preparation & Packaging
🔹 Wooden Crate for Protection
- Industrial-grade wooden crate reinforced with steel straps.
- Impact-resistant padding to protect hydraulic components.
- Moisture-proof wrapping to prevent corrosion.
🔹 Loading & Stacking
- Flat Rack Loading: Secured with heavy-duty straps to prevent shifting.
- Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Option: Used for fully assembled machinery.
- Containerized Freight: If disassembly was required.
🔹 Compliance Labeling
- HS Code: 8429521200
- Handling Instructions: “Heavy Equipment – Handle with Care”
- EPA Certification Stickers (if required for U.S. import).
2. Export Documentation & Customs Compliance
To ensure smooth transit and fast customs clearance, the following documents were prepared:
- Commercial Invoice – Detailed breakdown of the excavator’s specifications.
- Packing List – Included crate dimensions and weight.
- Bill of Lading (B/L) – Ensured smooth tracking.
- Customs Declarations – Ensured compliance with Chinese export laws.
- EPA Certification – Verified compliance with U.S. environmental regulations.
3. Sea Freight Route & Transit Details
Route: Qingdao → Los Angeles / Houston / Savannah → Final Delivery
- Transit Time: 30-35 days
- Shipping Method: Flat Rack, Ro-Ro, or 40FT HQ Container
- Port of Entry: Selected based on customer preference for inland transport.
🔹 Choosing the right transport method:
✔ Flat Rack: Ideal for oversized cargo.
✔ Ro-Ro: Best for fully assembled machinery.
✔ Containerized: Used when the machine can be disassembled.
🔹 Want to compare methods? China to USA Heavy Machinery Shipping Guide
4. Customs Clearance & Last-Mile Delivery in the USA
Once the excavator arrived at the U.S. port, we managed:
✔ Import Clearance – Fast customs processing with pre-approved paperwork.
✔ Duty & Tax Handling (DDP) – All costs covered upfront.
✔ Safety & Compliance Verification – Ensured adherence to EPA & DOT regulations.
✔ Final Delivery to Customer – Transported via specialized low-bed truck.
Challenges & Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Oversized Cargo Handling | Used flat rack and secured lashing for safety. |
| Customs Clearance Delays | Pre-submitted all required paperwork. |
| Moisture & Rust Risks | Applied anti-corrosion coatings and sealed packaging. |
| High Import Duties & Fees | Used DDP to cover all costs upfront. |
Why Choose Our Door-to-Door Sea Freight Services?
✅ End-to-End Handling – From pickup in China to final U.S. warehouse delivery.
✅ Seamless Customs Clearance – No unexpected delays or fees.
✅ Heavy Equipment Experts – Specialized in excavators, bulldozers, and industrial machinery.
✅ Competitive Rates – Cost-effective shipping with no hidden charges.
Related Case Studies
Procurement & Logistics Guides
Conclusion
At Tonlexing, we specialize in door-to-door sea freight solutions for heavy machinery, ensuring a seamless shipping experience from China to global destinations like the USA, Canada, Europe, and beyond. With our expertise in customs clearance, secure packaging, and last-mile delivery, we guarantee cost-effective, hassle-free, and reliable transport solutions for excavators, industrial equipment, and oversized cargo.
🚢 Looking for a trusted logistics partner? Contact Tonlexing today for expert freight solutions tailored to your business needs!
