Documentation included for hassle-free delivery
Philippines
Costa Rica
The ocean route from Manila to San Jose is strategically advantageous for transporting industrial machinery and construction equipment. This pathway allows for the movement of large and heavy cargo, accommodating the dimensions and weight of factory equipment without the constraints often associated with air freight. Additionally, maritime transport offers cost efficiency, making it an ideal solution for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain while ensuring the safe delivery of their construction machinery.
Both Manila and San Jose boast well-developed port infrastructure, facilitating seamless loading and unloading processes for heavy equipment. Manila's port is equipped with modern facilities that cater specifically to industrial goods, ensuring that machinery is handled with care. San Jose's port also provides robust logistics support, including warehousing and distribution services, which streamlines the transition from sea to land transport for construction machines entering the region.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exporters must comply with Philippine Bureau of Customs regulations, including accurate export declarations and valuation
All imports require customs clearance with detailed commercial invoices, packing lists, and tariff classification.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
When shipping from Manila to San Jose, anticipate the Southeast Asia Monsoon Season (May-November), which can cause heavy rainfall and port congestion. Secure vessel space at least 3-4 weeks in advance during the peak export periods (July-October) to avoid tight capacity and rolled cargo risks. Expect extended transit times and potential delays due to typhoons (June-November) and the Western New Year holiday (December 20-January 5). Communicate closely with carriers for real-time updates to mitigate disruptions.
When shipping industrial machines, Robust crating Is essential for very heavy, moisture‑sensitive units. Our team suggests using heavy timber skids or bases with marked lifting poi...
Very heavy construction machines and Generators Require engineered handling procedures. Only use rated lifting gear—rigging frames, slings, and shackles—matched to the Gross weight...
Very heavy industrial machines often Ships best on Flatbed trailers with sufficient capacity. Oversized heavy equipment may call for lowboy or multi‑axle trailers, while palletized...
High‑value, very heavy industrial machines and Generators Should be covered by comprehensive transit coverage, not just carrier liability. Most brokers recommend insuring shipments...
Moisture‑sensitive air handling units and control cabinets on Industrial machinery Require climate‑controlled storage before and after transit. Our team suggests storing crated gen...
Shipping very heavy industrial machines Requires Engineered crating. Use heavy timber skids with clear lifting points, hire experienced machinery movers for loading, and choose suitable heavy‑haul trailers rated for the full load. Block and brace the machine to prevent any movement, and photograph its condition before pickup.
Yes, moisture‑sensitive air handling units Should be Sealed against humidity. Use moisture‑barrier film with drying agents inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and book Enclosed trailers whenever possible. For ocean freight, evaluate Dehumidified or ventilated containers for long voyages.
Exporting heavy equipment typically Requires a Commercial invoice, packing list, waybill, and any control permits applicable to your destination. Customs brokers typically recommend including serial numbers, model numbers, and precise weights for each unit, especially for Generators. For some destinations, authorities may require certificates of origin, fumigation or ISPM‑15 declarations for wood packaging, and safety or emissions certificates for Construction machines.
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 rigging are covered, and store 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 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 air handling units and power equipment Are better kept under cover or indoors. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, check 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 via ocean freight from Manila to San Jose, it is essential to ensure that all items are properly secured and cushioned to withstand the long transit. Due to the size and weight of these products, specialized crating or containerization may be required. Additionally, it is important to consider the need for heavy-lift equipment for loading and unloading at both ports.
Documentation required for customs includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary export permits from the Philippines. Import permits and compliance with Costa Rican regulations, such as conformity assessments or inspections for industrial machinery, may also be required to ensure smooth customs clearance upon arrival in San Jose.
DNA Supply Chain combines 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.
DNA’s ocean freight solutions uses deep carrier relationships and the SAMMIE platform to move FCL and LCL containers smarter, with fewer surprises, clearer ETAs, and proactive risk flagging before issues develop.
DNA Supply Chain brings 30+ years of experience with global reach and local touch, using deep carrier relationships to move freight worldwide with precision and white-glove attention at every step.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your Manila → San Jose shipping needs.
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