Project cargo planned before it moves

Start with the complete project cargo list

A project can include oversized machinery, skidded equipment, components and smaller supporting consignments. Describe each unit separately and identify which pieces must arrive together. Packing dimensions, gross weight and readiness matter for every item, including accessories that may travel in a standard container.

• Industrial machinery and production equipment
• Construction and energy equipment
• Fabricated structures and engineering components
• Supporting parts and packed project materials

Choose equipment after the technical review

Flat-rack or open-top equipment may suit some units; other pieces need an individual breakbulk assessment. Dimensions alone do not establish acceptance. Lifting points, centre of gravity, support surfaces, securing arrangements and the intended transport position all affect the available method. Ask which surveys, drawings or specialist reviews are needed before equipment is requested.

Compare flat-rack and open-top shipping · Review breakbulk requirements

Build a useful technical brief

Send a unit-by-unit packing list, drawings, clear photographs and verified gross weights. Include the pickup and delivery addresses, site access, loading equipment and required receiving date. Identify any part that can be removed for transport and who will prepare, pack and reassemble it. Keep drawing versions consistent across the shipper and handling teams.

• Length, width, height and weight of each packed unit
• Centre of gravity and approved lifting points
• Proposed loading, support and securing method
• Site contacts, access restrictions and delivery sequence

Connect the site, port and vessel requirements

The movement must work at each handover. Review road access, lifting availability, terminal arrangements, storage exposure and the receiving site together with the ocean option. Route surveys, permits, specialist handling and lashing may be needed for the specific cargo; their scope and responsibility must be agreed before execution.

Inland transport planning · Connect transport stages

Confirm the proposal before committing the cargo

Review which units the proposal covers, the equipment assumptions, local charges, loading responsibilities and validity. Record any conditions still awaiting technical or carrier acceptance. For a staged project, specify whether the commercial priority is a coordinated arrival, a particular delivery sequence or separate movements as units become ready.

Illustrative oversized-cargo planning example