Shipping Heavy Equipment from Cartagena to Chicago via Ocean Freight

Shipping very heavy Industrial machinery Requires Engineered crating. Use purpose‑built skids with clear lifting points, hire experienced machinery movers for loading, and choose Flatbed or lowboy trailers rated for the full load. Stabilize and strap the machine to prevent any movement, and record its condition before pickup.

Yes, moisture‑sensitive HVAC equipment Should be Sealed against humidity. Use sealed plastic covers with drying agents inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and Choose covered transport whenever possible. For ocean freight, ask about Dehumidified or ventilated containers for long voyages.

Exporting Construction machinery typically Requires a Commercial invoice, packing list, transport document, and any control permits applicable to your destination. We recommend including serial numbers, model numbers, and precise weights for each unit, especially for power equipment. For some destinations, you should check if you need certificates of origin, fumigation or ISPM‑15 declarations for wood packaging, and safety or emissions certificates for Construction machines.

High‑value Generators Should be protected by Separate cargo insurance, as carrier liability is usually limited and may not cover full replacement cost. Insure for total project value, confirm that rigging are covered, and Keep inspection reports and photos in case you need to file a claim. This is especially important for custom‑built construction machinery where lead times and replacement costs are high.

Crated Construction machines Can sometimes be stored outdoors short‑term if packaging is Weather‑resistant and placed on hardstanding, not bare ground. However, moisture‑sensitive items like air handling units and Generators are safest under cover or indoors. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, verify wraps and tarps regularly, maintain drainage around the site, and Avoid long‑term exposure to reduce corrosion and electrical damage.

When shipping industrial machinery and construction equipment, it is crucial to ensure that the cargo is properly secured and protected from moisture during ocean transit. It is advisable to use specialized containers or flat racks that can accommodate the size and weight of the equipment. Additionally, it is important to verify that the machinery is in compliance with both Colombian and U.S. regulations regarding safety and environmental standards.

The required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary export permits from Colombia. Upon arrival in Chicago, an Importer Security Filing (ISF) and customs declaration must be submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, along with any certificates of origin or compliance for the machinery being imported.

We handle ISF, AMS, and ACE filings for your shipments.

We serve omnichannel retail, technology and electronics, automotive parts and machinery, manufacturing and heavy equipment, healthcare and medical, and hospitality and FF&E.

We combine global freight forwarding services with the SAMMIE AI platform to provide live map tracking, predictive ETAs, exception alerts, and centralized shipment documents so you have total shipment control on one powerful platform.