Shipping Industrial Machines from Charleston to Atlanta via Ocean Freight

Shipping very heavy Industrial machinery Requires careful planning. Use purpose‑built skids with clear lifting points, work with experienced machinery movers for loading, and choose Flatbed or lowboy trailers rated for the full load. Block and brace the machine to prevent any movement, and Document its condition before pickup.

Yes, moisture‑sensitive HVAC equipment Should be shielded from moisture. Use sealed plastic covers with humidity absorbers inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and Choose Enclosed trailers whenever possible. For ocean freight, Consider VCI packaging for long voyages.

Exporting Construction machinery typically Requires a customs invoice, packing list, transport document, and any regulatory approvals applicable to your destination. We recommend including serial numbers, model numbers, and precise weights for each unit, especially for Generators. For some destinations, You may also need certificates of origin, fumigation or ISPM‑15 declarations for wood packaging, and safety or emissions certificates for HVAC equipment.

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

Crated Construction machines Can sometimes be stored outdoors short‑term if packaging is designed for it and placed on hardstanding, not bare ground. However, moisture‑sensitive items like industrial fans and Generators Are better kept under cover or indoors. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, Inspect wraps and tarps regularly, maintain drainage around the site, and plan for timely installation to reduce corrosion and electrical damage.

When shipping industrial machinery and construction equipment via ocean, it is crucial to ensure that the cargo is properly secured to prevent movement during transit. Heavy machinery may require specialized crating or bracing to withstand the ocean's conditions. Additionally, it's important to check for any weight limits and size restrictions at both the Charleston and Atlanta ports to ensure compliance.

As both Charleston and Atlanta are located within the United States, there are generally no customs duties or tariffs for shipping industrial machinery and construction equipment domestically. However, shippers must comply with local regulations regarding the transport of heavy equipment, including obtaining necessary permits if the machinery exceeds standard dimensions or weight limits.

SAMMIE helps you stay ahead of issues with instant delay alerts, automatic exception flags, and “hot” shipment flagging so you can prioritize critical freight and address problems before they ripple into larger issues.

We offer in-house customs brokerage that handles classification, documentation, and clearance across U.S. and global ports with accuracy and speed, supported by SAMMIE’s delay flagging and ongoing updates from your dedicated Client Success Officer.

With DNA, you get live map tracking with milestone updates and 24/7 access via SAMMIE, while other forwarders often provide only basic carrier links and manual updates that can be delayed or incomplete.