Trusted ocean transport with affordable pricing
United States
Sri Lanka
The ocean route from Charleston to Colombo offers significant advantages for transporting industrial machinery and construction equipment. This pathway is well-established, allowing for the efficient movement of heavy and oversized loads that are typical of these products. Additionally, utilizing ocean freight minimizes handling risks, ensuring that valuable factory equipment arrives in optimal condition. The route supports a variety of shipping options, catering to different capacity needs and enabling cost-effective logistics solutions.
Charleston boasts a robust port infrastructure equipped to handle large volumes of cargo, including specialized facilities for heavy machinery. The port's advanced loading and unloading technologies facilitate the quick and safe transfer of construction machinery onto vessels. In Colombo, the port is similarly well-equipped, featuring modern container terminals and dedicated spaces for industrial equipment, which streamlines the import process. Together, these infrastructures support a seamless flow of goods between the two locations, enhancing overall supply chain efficiency.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Shippers must adhere to U.S. Export Administration Regulations and submit accurate Electronic Export Information via AES
Imports are subject to Sri Lanka Customs rules, including timely electronic manifest filing.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
When shipping from Charleston to Colombo, anticipate significant delays due to the Atlantic Hurricane Season (June-November) and the Indian Ocean Cyclone Season (April-June, October-December). Build in extra buffer days to your schedules and secure flexible berthing windows to accommodate potential disruptions. During peak periods like the Christmas Retail Peak (October-December) and the Black Friday and Cyber Monday surge (mid-November to early December), ensure vessel space and inland transport capacity well in advance. Coordinate closely with carriers for real-time updates to navigate congestion and weather-related challenges effectively.
When shipping industrial machines, Robust crating Is essential for very heavy, moisture‑sensitive units. Our team suggests using Steel‑reinforced skids or bases with Four‑way forkl...
Very heavy construction machines and Generators Require engineered handling procedures. Always use rated lifting gear—Spreader bars, slings, and shackles—matched to the combined ma...
Very heavy industrial machines often Ships best on Flatbed trailers with sufficient capacity. Oversized Construction machinery may Require lowboy or multi‑axle trailers, while pall...
High‑value, very heavy industrial machines and Generators Should be covered by comprehensive transit coverage, not just carrier liability. We recommend insuring shipments for Full ...
Moisture‑sensitive air handling units and control cabinets on Industrial machinery Require climate‑controlled storage before and after transit. We recommend storing crated Construc...
Shipping very heavy industrial machines Requires Engineered crating. Use heavy timber skids with clear lifting points, Engage 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 air handling units Should be Sealed against humidity. Use moisture‑barrier film with Desiccant packs inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and Choose covered transport whenever possible. For ocean freight, ask about VCI packaging for long voyages.
Exporting heavy equipment typically Requires a Commercial invoice, packing list, waybill, and any Export licenses 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 HVAC equipment.
High‑value backup generators Should be protected by Separate cargo insurance, as carrier liability is usually limited and may not cover full replacement cost. Insure for replacement cost, confirm that Loading and unloading 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 industrial machinery Can sometimes be stored outdoors short‑term if packaging is Weather‑resistant and placed on concrete pads, not bare ground. However, moisture‑sensitive items like HVAC equipment and Generators are safest under cover or indoors. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, verify 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 freight, it's essential to ensure that all equipment is securely packaged and adequately braced to prevent damage during transit. Additionally, oversized or heavy machinery may require specific loading and unloading equipment at both the Charleston and Colombo ports to facilitate safe handling.
Shipping industrial machinery and construction equipment from the United States to Sri Lanka requires compliance with both U.S. export regulations and Sri Lankan import regulations. Export licenses may be needed depending on the machinery type, and all shipments must be accompanied by relevant documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and any required certificates of conformity or safety standards as mandated by Sri Lankan authorities.
Yes, DNA includes consolidation and customs pre-clearance to help move your air cargo quickly and compliantly.
DNA provides in-house customs brokerage including import/export clearance, tariff classification and valuation, ISF, AMS, and ACE filings, plus FDA, USDA, and multi-agency support.
Yes, DNA provides B2B pick/pack and palletization services.
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