Dependable ocean shipping with competitive pricing
United States
Colombia
The route from Oakland to Cartagena offers significant advantages for transporting industrial machinery and construction equipment. With a direct ocean passage, this route allows for the efficient movement of large and heavy machinery, minimizing handling times and reducing the risk of damage. Additionally, the established shipping lanes ensure reliability, providing businesses with confidence in their supply chain operations. The strategic connection between these two ports facilitates access to key markets in both North and South America.
Oakland's port infrastructure is well-equipped to handle oversized cargo, featuring specialized cranes and heavy-duty loading facilities designed for industrial machines. The port's efficient logistics network supports quick loading and unloading processes, making it an ideal starting point for shipments. In Cartagena, the port boasts modern facilities capable of accommodating a variety of construction machinery, with ample storage space and access to inland transportation routes. This robust infrastructure ensures seamless transfers and distribution of equipment upon arrival.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Shippers must ensure compliance with U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and any applicable sanctions programs when routing cargo via Oakland.
Imports are subject to Colombian customs valuation, tariff classification, and health and safety requirements.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
High - Fragile/Moisture Sensitive
When shipping from Oakland to Cartagena, prepare for the Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season (June-November) by scheduling critical sailings outside peak storm periods and including buffer days for potential delays. During the Christmas retail peak (October-December), confirm vessel space early to avoid congestion and expect longer terminal dwell times. Additionally, plan for the North America Winter Storms (December-March) by allowing extra time for potential disruptions and coordinating carriers for real-time updates.
When shipping factory equipment, heavy‑duty protection is critical for very heavy, moisture‑sensitive units. We recommend using engineered skids or bases with clear fork pockets. F...
Very heavy heavy equipment and power equipment demand Planned handling procedures. Consistently use rated lifting gear—lifting beams, slings, and shackles—matched to the total load...
Very heavy factory equipment often is most secure on lowboys with Adequate axle ratings. Oversized power equipment may need lowboy or multi‑axle trailers, while palletized air hand...
High‑value, very heavy factory equipment and power equipment Should be covered by All‑risk cargo insurance, not just carrier liability. Risk managers typically recommend insuring s...
Moisture‑sensitive industrial fans and control cabinets on power equipment need Dry, covered storage before and after transit. Most warehouse operators recommend storing crated hea...
Shipping very heavy factory equipment necessitates professional rigging. Use Steel‑reinforced skids with clear lifting points, work with experienced machinery movers for loading, and choose step‑deck or lowboy equipment rated for the full load. Secure and chock the machine to prevent any movement, and record its condition before pickup.
Yes, moisture‑sensitive industrial fans needs to be protected from rain and condensation. Use Shrink wrap with humidity absorbers inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and select dry containers whenever possible. For ocean freight, ask about Dehumidified or ventilated containers for long voyages.
Exporting industrial machinery typically involves a detailed invoice, packing list, Bill of lading, and any regulatory approvals applicable to your destination. Most freight forwarders recommend including serial numbers, model numbers, and precise weights for each unit, especially for backup generators. 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 power equipment are best protected by a dedicated policy, as carrier liability is usually limited and may not cover full replacement cost. Insure for Full value, confirm that water damage are covered, and retain inspection reports and photos in case you need to file a claim. This is especially important for custom‑built factory equipment where lead times and replacement costs are high.
Crated heavy equipment may be stored outdoors short‑term if packaging is properly sealed and placed on Elevated dunnage, not bare ground. However, moisture‑sensitive items like industrial fans and backup generators should ideally be kept 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.
Required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and specific import permits for industrial machinery as per Colombian regulations. Additionally, a certificate of origin may be necessary to comply with trade agreements.
Handling considerations include ensuring proper securing of equipment to prevent movement during transit, using appropriate containers for oversized or heavy machinery, and adhering to safety standards for loading and unloading at both ports.
Yes, we fully support high-volume and enterprise shippers by offering scalable services, custom EDI/API integrations, and expert client support for complex operations.
Yes, our team is able to integrate via robust EDI/API capabilities, mapping fields, automating status updates, pushing documentation, and syncing PO and invoice data with systems like SAP, NetSuite, Oracle, or custom WMS/ERP platforms.
Yes, our system supports user-level permissions so warehouse, finance, purchasing, or customer service teams can access exactly what they need and nothing they don’t.
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