Project Cargo Shipping Services

Project cargo costs vary significantly as each project is unique. Pricing factors include: cargo dimensions and weight (oversized/overweight requires special equipment), complexity (disassembly, special handling, engineering), distance and route (permits, escorts, route surveys), equipment required (heavy-lift cranes, specialized trailers, jack and slide systems), and timeline (rush projects cost more). Small project cargo (under 50 tons, normal dimensions) may cost $10,000-$50,000. Medium projects (50-200 tons, moderately oversized) range $50,000-$200,000. Large projects (over 200 tons, significantly oversized) can exceed $500,000. We provide detailed feasibility studies and comprehensive quotes including all costs: transport, equipment, permits, insurance, and contingencies.

Out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo exceeds standard shipping container dimensions (40'L × 8'W × 8.5'H for 40' container). OOG classifications include: Length OOG (exceeding 40 feet - requires flat racks or breakbulk), Width OOG (exceeding 8 feet - requires specialized trailers and road permits), Height OOG (exceeding 8.5 feet - requires route clearance surveys), and Weight OOG (exceeding standard container max of 30 tons - requires heavy-duty equipment). Examples: transformer weighing 150 tons, crane boom 60 feet long, reactor vessel 15 feet diameter. OOG cargo requires: special vessel bookings (breakbulk ships or heavy-lift vessels), custom securing plans, route feasibility studies, multiple transport permits, and specialized handling equipment. We have experience moving cargo exceeding 300 tons and 100 feet in length.

Yes, we provide comprehensive customs clearance for project cargo including complex regulatory requirements. Services include: classification of specialized equipment under HS codes, valuation for customs duties (ensuring proper documentation), temporary import permits (for equipment returning after project completion), carnets for trade shows and temporary projects, duty exemptions and reductions (identifying applicable programs), and coordination with customs authorities for inspection scheduling. Project cargo often involves: high values requiring detailed documentation, specialized equipment unfamiliar to customs (requiring technical explanations), temporary imports (ATA Carnets, TIBs), and multiple consignees for large projects. Our experienced customs brokers navigate these complexities, minimizing delays and ensuring compliance with all regulations.

We coordinate specialized heavy-lift equipment for project cargo including: Heavy-lift cranes (50-1000 ton capacity for loading/unloading), Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs - for moving extremely heavy loads), Hydraulic gantries (lifting in confined spaces), Lowbed trailers (accommodating tall cargo with low deck height), Multi-axle trailers (distributing weight for heavy cargo), Jack and slide systems (moving cargo without cranes), Rigging equipment (chains, wire ropes, shackles rated for specific loads), and Breakbulk vessels with heavy-lift derricks (on-board cranes up to 700 tons). Equipment selection depends on cargo weight, dimensions, site conditions, and access. Our engineering team conducts lifting studies and develops detailed rigging plans ensuring safe, efficient loading and transport.

Project cargo timelines are longer than standard freight due to complexity. Typical project phases include: Planning and engineering (2-6 weeks - route surveys, permit applications, engineering studies), Preparation (2-4 weeks - cargo assessment, custom cradles/frames, disassembly if needed), Inland transport to port (1-3 weeks - depending on permits, route, special equipment), Port operations (1-2 weeks - specialized loading, vessel availability), Ocean transit (2-8 weeks depending on destination and vessel type), Destination port operations (1-3 weeks - offloading, customs), and Final delivery (1-4 weeks - inland transport, installation). Total time typically ranges 3-6 months. Expedited projects can reduce timelines by 30-40% with premium services. We develop detailed project schedules with milestones and provide regular progress updates.

Oversized and overweight cargo requires multiple permits. Road transport permits include: Oversize load permits (when exceeding standard width 8.5', height 13.5', or length limits), Overweight permits (when exceeding standard weight limits, typically 80,000 lbs), Route-specific permits (approved routing through DOT authorities), Bridge crossing permits (structural analysis for heavy loads), and Utility clearance permits (raising power lines, traffic lights for tall loads). Each state has different requirements and fees. International permits include: Export licenses (for certain equipment types), Import permits (from destination countries), Environmental permits (if applicable), and Special handling permits (for hazardous materials). Lead time for permits: 2-8 weeks depending on jurisdiction and cargo specifications. We handle all permit applications, route surveys, and regulatory compliance nationwide and internationally.

Yes, project cargo requires specialized marine cargo insurance due to high values, complexity, and increased risk. Standard cargo insurance is insufficient. Project cargo insurance covers: Marine cargo (loading, ocean transit, unloading), Inland transit (origin to port, port to destination), Installation risks (if applicable), Delay in startup (DSU - coverage for commissioning delays), Third-party liability (damage to infrastructure, injuries), and Political risks (for international projects). Coverage amounts often exceed $10 million for large projects. Insurance is essential as: Cargo values are extremely high ($500K-$50M+), Specialized equipment is difficult to replace, Custom engineering increases risk exposure, Multiple handling points increase probability of incidents, and Delays are costly (penalties, equipment rental extensions). We arrange comprehensive all-risk insurance through specialized project cargo underwriters.