By Tony Li    Photo：CANVA

Transporting large-scale equipment is a complex process involving multiple stages and specialized expertise. It must be arranged based on factors such as equipment type, dimensions, weight, transport distance, and route conditions. Below is an overview of common procedures and transportation methods for large-scale equipment:

I. Major Transportation Methods for Large Equipment

1. Land Transportation

• Truck Transport: Use of flatbed trailers, low-bed trailers, and heavy-duty modular transporters.
• Rail Transport: Suitable for long-distance routes with access to rail hubs.
• Special Permits and Escort: Oversized (over-height, over-width, over-weight) equipment requires an "Oversize Load Permit" and escort vehicles such as police or guide cars.

2. Sea Transportation

• Choose the appropriate container type for loading based on the size of the equipment. (For details, please refer to Section IV below)
• RO-RO Vessels (Roll-on/Roll-off Ships): Equipment is rolled directly onto and off the vessel.
• Lift-on/Lift-off or Open Deck Ships: Used for extremely large, indivisible equipment.
• Pre-transport Preparations: Customs clearance, loading/unloading plans, and lifting design must be arranged at the port.

3. Air Transportation (Rare)

• Used only for small batches of specialized, high-value, and time-sensitive equipment.
• Large cargo planes such as the Russian An-124 or the U.S. C-5 Galaxy can carry certain oversized equipment.

II. Preparations Before Transportation

1. Equipment Measurement and Evaluation

• Accurately measure the length, width, height, and weight.
• Evaluate whether disassembly, packaging, or reinforcement is necessary.

2. Route Survey and Planning

• Assess limitations such as bridge load capacity, tunnel clearance, and turning radius.
• Apply for temporary removal or detours if encountering obstacles like power lines, traffic lights, or low bridges.

3. Permits and Insurance

• Apply for oversize transportation permits from relevant authorities.
• Obtain cargo insurance and third-party liability insurance.

III. Loading and Handling

1. Lifting Equipment

• Use cranes (crawler or truck-mounted), gantries, or slide rail systems.
• A lifting plan and professional supervision are essential.

2. Securing and Reinforcement

• Secure equipment on trailers using chains, steel cables, wedges, anti-slip mats, etc.
• Prevent shifting or vibration during transport.

3. Site Coordination

• Sufficient space is required at both the origin and destination for crane operation and equipment movement.

IV. Common Container Types for Large Equipment

When transporting large equipment in containers, special container types are chosen based on volume, weight, and whether the structure is divisible. The table below summarizes the commonly used containers:

How to Choose the Right Container Type?

1. Based on Size:

50. If the equipment exceeds standard container size (20ft or 40ft), use Flat Rack, Open Top, or Platform.
50. Equipment over 2.9 meters tall typically cannot fit in standard containers.

2. Based on Weight:

50. Equipment over 30 tons is generally not suitable for standard containers; use Platform Containers or modular trailers instead.

3. Based on Lifting Method:

50. If top or side lifting is required, choose Open Top or Flat Rack.
50. Standard containers can only be loaded/unloaded through the rear doors.

4. Based on Divisibility:

50. If the equipment can be disassembled, it can be packed into multiple standard containers.
50. If not, special containers or Breakbulk shipping is necessary.

Additional Note: Breakbulk vs. Special Containers

If you have specific equipment types or transportation needs (eg. location, size, weight), Team Global Logistics can help to plan a detailed logistics solution. Please feel free to contact us.

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