Shipping methods for a used excavator

There are four ways a machine leaves China

Container, flat-rack, Ro-Ro and break-bulk. The right one depends mainly on the size of the machine and the sailing available to your port.

Container

Smaller machines can load into a standard container, which is usually the cheapest and the most predictable option. Whether a given unit fits depends on its measured transport size with the attachments removed as needed.

Flat-rack

Mid-size machines commonly move on a flat-rack, secured to the platform. It carries bigger units than a container while keeping a regular sailing schedule.

Ro-Ro

Roll-on / roll-off suits wheeled or track machines that can be driven or pulled aboard. It is often used for the 20 to 40 tonne classes on routes that call at your port.

Break-bulk

The largest mining-class machines move as break-bulk cargo on a general ship, with lifting points and a loading plan agreed in advance. Plan early because sailings are less frequent.

How to compare them fairly

Freight alone is misleading. Ask for a CIF estimate for your port from the same FOB price, then compare the landed figure including your local charges.