Agricultural Equipment Shipping

How to Transport Agricultural Equipment from the USA

The USA is one of the largest producers and exporters of agricultural equipment. Buyers can find both new and used machinery of high quality. However, the process of transporting this equipment overseas requires thorough preparation. Below, we outline key aspects of transportation, including domestic and international shipping, transportation options, purchasing tips, and potential challenges.

Purchasing Agricultural Equipment in the USA

New Equipment

Purchasing new equipment ensures you get modern, reliable machinery with minimal wear and manufacturer warranties. Major brands such as John Deere, Case IH, and Caterpillar offer a wide range of options through official dealerships. You can:

1. Contact authorized dealers.
2. Attend major agricultural trade shows.
3. Use online platforms provided by manufacturers.

Used Equipment

Buying used equipment can lead to significant savings. Popular platforms for finding used machinery include:

1. Machinery Trader — a leading marketplace for used equipment.
2. AuctionTime and other online auction sites.
3. Farm shows and specialized auctions held across the USA.

Important: Always check the equipment’s usage history, condition, potential hidden defects, and the availability of spare parts before purchasing.

Transportation Options for Agricultural Equipment

Farm Equipment International Transportation 

For shipping overseas, the following methods are available:

1. Ocean Freight
   • Container Shipping: Ideal for disassembled equipment or machinery that fits into standard 20- or 40-foot containers.
   • Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off): Suitable for machinery that can be driven onto the ship without disassembly.
   • Oversized Cargo: Used for equipment that exceeds standard container dimensions.
2. Air Freight (rarely used due to high costs, suitable for smaller, high-value equipment).
3. Rail Transport in combination with ocean freight.

Agricultural Machinery: Disassembled vs. Assembled Shipping

We can assist in disassembling machinery to reduce its size and packing it for container shipping. This ensures cost-effective transportation and secure handling of your equipment.

Key Considerations for Shipping Farm Equipment from the USA

1. Documentation
   • Sales contracts and invoices.
   • Certificates of compliance and operational safety.
   • Customs documents (including export declarations).
2. Choosing the Port of Departure
   • East Coast (New York, Savannah) — closer to Europe and Africa.
   • West Coast (Los Angeles, Oakland) — convenient for Asia and Oceania.
   • Gulf Coast (Houston, New Orleans) — ideal for Latin America.
3. Transportation Companies Work with reputable logistics operators specializing in heavy equipment transport and familiar with export regulations.

Agricultural Equipment: Potential Challenges and Solutions 

1. Equipment Condition
   • Solution: Arrange for an independent inspection before purchase.
2. Customs Restrictions
   • Solution: Ensure compliance with your country’s standards (e.g., emissions regulations).
3. Delivery Timelines
   • Solution: Account for seasonal peaks, such as harvest season, which can delay port operations.
4. Shipping Costs
   • Solution: Compare quotes from different logistics companies.
5. Damage During Transport
   • Solution: Opt for comprehensive cargo insurance.

Transporting agricultural equipment from the USA is a complex yet manageable process with proper planning. Identify the right machinery, organize logistics, choose a reliable shipping partner, and double-check your documentation. Proper preparation will help you avoid unnecessary costs and delays.

Contact SEAVOLK for assistance with the full transportation cycle, including disassembly, packaging, and shipping any farm equipment you need!