Shipping Heavy Equipment from Rio Grande to Houston via Ocean Freight

Shipping very heavy factory equipment Requires professional rigging. 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. Secure and chock the machine to prevent any movement, and record its condition before pickup.

Yes, moisture‑sensitive industrial fans Should be protected from rain and condensation. Use sealed plastic covers with drying agents inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and Choose dry containers whenever possible. For ocean freight, ask about enhanced corrosion protection for long voyages.

Exporting industrial machinery typically Requires a detailed 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 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 industrial machines.

High‑value power equipment Should be protected by a dedicated policy, 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 factory equipment where lead times and replacement costs are high.

Crated heavy equipment Can sometimes be stored outdoors short‑term if packaging is properly sealed and placed on hardstanding, not bare ground. However, moisture‑sensitive items like air handling units and 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 limit duration to reduce corrosion and electrical damage.

The documentation required includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary export permits from Brazil. Additionally, an Importer Security Filing (ISF) is required for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Compliance with the U.S. regulations for machinery and equipment, including safety standards, is also necessary.

Rio Grande has facilities that accommodate large cargo and heavy machinery, with access to specialized loading equipment. The Port of Houston is equipped with extensive infrastructure for handling industrial machinery and construction equipment, including heavy-lift cranes and dedicated terminals for oversized cargo, making it suitable for the unloading and transportation of such goods.

The Smart Route Planning tool uses AI to hunt for the best carrier, lane, and timing in real time, optimizing for cost, speed, and reliability.

Our system is valuable for project-based ocean freight because it allows teams to quickly and efficiently update their customers regarding project-based ocean freight shipments and provides the tools needed to deliver the customer service their clients expect.

Client feedback shows that SAMMIE helps them manage shipments much better than previous archaic, time-consuming methods that often relied on inaccurate data, replacing status emails and spreadsheet chaos with real-time clarity.