Shipping a Dragline Excavator from the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

Pre-Shipment Assessment

Disassembly: Engage specialist contractors. Document component weights, dimensions, and create detailed plans. High-quality photography is crucial.
Weight & Dimensions: Precise measurements of each component and crating are essential for accurate costing and shipping arrangements.
Port Survey: Identify suitable UK ports for OOG cargo, considering proximity to the disassembly site.
Vessel Availability: Shipping International can provide information on heavy lift and Breakbulk shipping lines, quotes and transit times.

Robust Crating: Use high-quality, heavy-duty crates compliant with ISPM 15 standards (heat treatment or fumigation).
Internal Protection: Use dunnage, padding, and bracing to prevent damage.
Clear Marking: Each crate must be clearly labelled with weight, dimensions, handling instructions, contact information, and destination port.

Specialised Transport: Arrange heavy-lift transport (e.g., lowboy trailers) and secure permits for oversized loads.
Port Handling: Coordinate with port authorities and stevedores for seamless loading.

Packing List: Detailed list of components, weights, dimensions, and crate markings.
Commercial Invoice: Specifies goods value, terms of sale, and other commercial details.
Bill of Lading: Contract of carriage between shipper and carrier.
Certificate of Origin: May be required depending on the destination country.
Other Permits/Licenses: Obtain necessary import/export permits and licenses.

Cargo Insurance: Secure comprehensive cargo insurance to cover loss or damage.

Pre-Arrival Notification: Notify consignee and port authorities well in advance.
customs clearance: Arrange for efficient customs clearance.
Discharge & Delivery: Coordinate discharge and transport to final destination.

Information on reputable freight forwarders experienced in OOG and Heavy Lift Cargo is available from Shipping International.

(Estimates, will vary greatly based on specifics)

Disassembly: £5,000 - £20,000+ (depending on size and complexity)
Crating & Packaging: £2,000 - £10,000+ (material costs and labor)
Transportation to Port: £1,000 - £5,000+ (distance and specialized transport)
Shipping: £10,000 - £50,000+ (vessel type, distance, weight, dimensions)
Insurance: 1-3% of cargo value
Customs Duties & Taxes: Varies greatly by destination country
Destination Port Handling & Delivery: £1,000 - £5,000+

Weather Delays: Use weather forecasting to plan around potential storms. Consider alternative shipping routes or schedules.
Port Congestion: Book shipping well in advance and monitor port activity. Have backup plans for alternative ports.
Damage During Transit: Use robust crating and internal protection. Ensure proper handling procedures are followed at all stages.
Customs Delays: Prepare all necessary documentation in advance. Work with a customs broker experienced in handling OOG cargo.

OOG (Out of Gauge): Cargo exceeding standard dimensions for easy transport.
Breakbulk: Cargo that is not containerized.
ISPM 15: International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (wood packaging regulations).
Dunnage: Material used to secure and protect cargo during transit.
Stevedores: Workers who load and unload cargo from ships.
Bill of Lading: Document serving as a contract of carriage.