RoRo, flat rack or break bulk: how to choose the shipping method

Used construction machinery goes by sea, and there are three common methods.

RoRo ships suit machines that can drive on board themselves, such as excavators, wheel loaders, truck cranes and concrete pump trucks. The machine drives straight into the hold, no lifting needed, so it is less likely to be damaged during loading and unloading. However, routes and sailing schedules are limited, and not every port has a RoRo ship call.

Flat racks suit machines that are overwidth or overheight but not too heavy, such as small and medium excavators. Flat racks travel on container ships, so there are more routes and the schedules are stable. The machine must be lashed and secured to the rack, and sometimes the bucket or counterweight has to be removed.

Break bulk ships suit large, overweight equipment, such as large-tonnage excavators, or crawler cranes shipped disassembled. Loading and unloading use the port cranes, and the cost and risk should be confirmed with the freight forwarder in advance.

Which one to choose depends mainly on the size and weight of the machine, whether the destination port has a matching route, and how long a transit time is acceptable. Tell the salesperson the destination port when you ask for a quote, and we will give shipping advice together.