Shipping Construction Machinery from Yokohama to Tacoma via Ocean Freight

Shipping very heavy industrial machines Requires Engineered crating. Use purpose‑built 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 Document its condition before pickup.

Yes, moisture‑sensitive air handling units Should be Sealed against humidity. Use sealed plastic covers with humidity absorbers inside, cap all duct and cable openings, and select dry containers whenever possible. For ocean freight, Consider Dehumidified or ventilated containers for long voyages.

Exporting heavy equipment typically Requires a Commercial invoice, packing list, transport document, 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 may also need 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 total project 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 industrial machinery Can sometimes be stored outdoors short‑term if packaging is Weather‑resistant and placed on hardstanding, 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, Inspect wraps and tarps regularly, maintain drainage around the site, and Avoid long‑term exposure to reduce corrosion and electrical damage.

Shipping industrial machinery and construction equipment requires careful handling due to their size and weight. Packaging must ensure that equipment is secure and protected from sea conditions. Additionally, securing machinery to pallets or containers is critical to prevent movement during transit.

Regulatory requirements include compliance with U.S. customs regulations, which may involve providing documentation such as invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. Additionally, equipment must meet U.S. safety and environmental standards, and it may be subject to inspections upon arrival in Tacoma.

DNA Supply Chain offers ocean freight (FCL and LCL), air freight, ground transportation (domestic and cross-border trucking), customs brokerage, and warehousing & distribution, all supported by our SAMMIE visibility platform and dedicated Client Success Officers.

DNA provides secure, strategically located warehousing for scalable storage and just-in-time fulfillment, with real-time inventory control and integrated distribution powered by SAMMIE’s insight and our responsive Client Success Officers.

DNA supports seamless EDI/API connectivity tailored to your systems—including ERP, WMS, finance, and more—while many other forwarders depend on third-party platforms with limited integration and manual data entry.