How to Ship Heavy Machinery from China (Breakbulk Guide, 2026)

Excavators, cranes, generators and plant equipment are too large for containers. This guide explains how breakbulk project cargo moves from China to your site.

1. What is breakbulk

Breakbulk means cargo is lifted individually onto the vessel by crane and stowed in the hold or on deck, then lashed and secured. It suits machinery, project cargo and oversized units.

2. Information we need

Dimensions (L×W×H), gross weight, centre of gravity, lifting points, whether it is self-propelled, and the destination (port or inland). Photos help.

3. Lifting and lashing plan

We prepare a lifting and lashing plan for the terminal and carrier, including slings, shackles and dunnage. This is agreed before loading.

4. Loading ports

Breakbulk sailings are less frequent than container services. We book from Tianjin, Qingdao, Shanghai or Nansha depending on the carrier's schedule.

5. Transit time

Allow 35–55 days to West Africa and the Middle East, longer for project cargo with transhipment.

6. Destination

We arrange heavy-lift discharge, inland transport and customs clearance with local partners. Plan these costs in advance.