Machinery & Equipment Shipping
Move Heavy Machines the Easy Way
With a single request, FreightCenter scans its nationwide heavy‑haul network, matches your timeline with available capacity, and presents an up‑front price, no hidden fees, no last‑minute surprises.
Related Machinery Shipping Services
Crating Heavy Machinery Shipping Agricultural Machinery Packaging Machinery EquipmentWhether you’re moving a single industrial machine or an entire factory floor of equipment, shipping machinery isn’t something you want to leave to guesswork. It takes planning, protection, and the right logistics partner. At FreightCenter, we help businesses like yours ship heavy equipment every day with smarter routes, better rates, and real expert support.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Machinery & Equipment Shipping Requires Expertise
Machinery shipping can feel overwhelming. It’s bulky. It’s heavy. It’s expensive. And one misstep, like incorrect dimensions or skipping permit requirements, can cost you time and money. That’s why working with a logistics partner who knows the ins and outs of equipment transport makes all the difference.
At FreightCenter, we handle all kinds of machinery shipping from lathes and CNCs to press brakes, construction attachments, and agricultural implements. We’ll help you find the best mode of transport, coordinate specialized handling if needed, and stay compliant every step of the way.
How to Package Machinery for LTL Freight Shipping
You don’t need to be an expert packer, but the way you prepare your machinery for shipping matters. Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Clean it: Remove excess dirt, oil, or residue to protect other freight and comply with carrier rules.
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Secure all parts: Wrap exposed components, protect moving pieces, and disconnect fuel lines or power sources.
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Use proper bases: Palletize or crate your machinery for forklift access and stability.
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Anchor everything: Straps, blocks, shrink wrap—use whatever it takes to keep your load from shifting mid-transit.
Need help? Our FreightCenter agents can provide guidance on packaging or connect you with professional crating services.
How to Package Machinery for Full Truckload & Flatbed Shipping
When you’re shipping heavy machinery on a flatbed, step-deck, or RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailer, there’s no outer trailer wall to fall back on. That makes secure, intentional packaging even more important. You’re working with open-deck transport, so your equipment is exposed to weather, road debris, and vibration. And you can’t afford to wing it.
Here’s what proper preparation looks like for FTL machinery shipping:
Protect Your Equipment from the Elements
Use industrial tarps, shrink wrap, or weather-resistant coverings, especially if your machine has sensitive controls, wiring, or open ports. Flatbeds and RGNs don’t offer built-in protection from rain, snow, or dust.
Use Blocking, Bracing & Dunnage
Blocking and bracing keep your equipment stable on the trailer during transit. This might include wood blocks, steel chains, straps, edge protectors, or even custom-fabricated fixtures. Your FreightCenter rep can help you determine what’s required based on your load and trailer type.
Disconnect, Secure & Bundle Loose Components
Hydraulic arms, removable panels, mirrors, or attachments should be either removed or tightly secured to prevent damage. Label and bundle any items that travel detached from the central unit to prevent them from getting misplaced during loading or unloading.
Ensure Weight Distribution
Your equipment needs to sit balanced across the trailer’s axles, especially on RGNs or step decks. A well-balanced load helps your carrier stay compliant with DOT weight restrictions and ensures safer transit. We can help determine the best trailer configuration based on weight, length, and center of gravity.
Prep Your Loading & Unloading Plan
RGNs are ideal for roll-on/roll-off machinery. Step decks are well-suited for use when ramps or cranes are involved. Know your pickup and delivery site capabilities. If you need crane coordination or loading help, FreightCenter can assist.
Need help preparing for open-deck machinery shipping? FreightCenter’s truckload shipping logistics experts will walk you through every detail, so your load is safe, secure, and ready for the road.
Shipping machinery and equipment isn’t a one-size-fits-all task and FreightCenter gets that. Whether you're moving a single crated machine or coordinating a full fleet of oversized equipment, we build freight solutions around your specific load. From auction buys and manufacturer deliveries to industrial relocations, we connect you with the best carriers, equipment, and support to ensure a smooth, secure, and timely delivery.
Shipping a few skids of machine parts or crated tools? Our LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) service gives you access to discounted rates by sharing trailer space with other shippers. FreightCenter compares top carriers to help you find the most affordable, efficient way to move partial loads. Perfect for manufacturers, repair shops, and equipment resellers.
When your machinery exceeds standard freight limits, FreightCenter delivers full and partial truckload solutions with precision. We arrange dry van, flatbed, or step-deck trailers based on your cargo’s size, weight, and loading needs. Whether you’re moving CNC machines, forklifts, or compressors, we’ll keep your shipment secure from dock to destination.
Need machinery delivered in a hurry? Our nationwide expedited services prioritize your shipment with speed and care. Whether you're meeting a production deadline or delivering to a job site, FreightCenter coordinates fast, secure transport with real-time tracking and hands-on support.
From oversized presses to fragile diagnostic machines, some equipment needs more than just a trailer it needs expertise. FreightCenter connects you with carriers offering RGN trailers, white glove delivery, temperature control, and international shipping. No matter the complexity, we handle the logistics so your machinery arrives in perfect condition.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Smart Shipping Starts Here
Shipping machinery & equipment doesn’t have to be stressful. FreightCenter is here to help you every step of the way—from quote to delivery, and everything in between. Our team knows the questions to ask, the carriers to trust, and the pitfalls to avoid.
Let’s get your equipment on the road with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Machinery & Equipment
Q. How do I ship heavy machinery by freight?
Start by cleaning and securing your equipment, disassembling if necessary. Use crating, pallets, or bracing for stability. Then book a freight service like flatbed or FTL through FreightCenter.
Q. What’s the best freight service for shipping machinery?
For oversized or irregular equipment, flatbed or RGN trailers are ideal. For smaller machinery, LTL or FTL freight works best. FreightCenter helps match your shipment to the right mode.
Q. How much does it cost to ship machinery?
Machinery shipping costs typically range from $300 to $4,000+, depending on size, weight, distance, and freight type. Use FreightCenter’s quote tool for accurate pricing.
Q. Can I ship machinery that contains fuel or oil?
Most carriers require machinery to be drained of fuel and hazardous fluids. FreightCenter can help you understand and meet hazmat compliance requirements.
Q. What type of equipment can I ship?
You can ship manufacturing tools, machine parts, lathes, welders, HVAC units, construction machines, attachments, and more. FreightCenter handles all categories of machinery.
Q. Do I need to crate my machinery for shipping?
Crating is highly recommended for smaller or fragile machines. Larger equipment should be secured on skids or trailers with blocking and bracing. Our team can help arrange packaging if needed.
Q. How do I prepare a machine for transport?
Remove loose attachments, document its condition, secure moving parts, and use proper lifting gear. FreightCenter provides prep checklists and guidance for safe transit.
Q. Can I ship used or refurbished machinery?
Yes. Just ensure it’s in safe, shippable condition with clean surfaces and clear labels. Used machines should be well-secured to prevent damage.
Q. Is tracking available for machinery shipments?
Absolutely. FreightCenter offers real-time tracking and status updates for every shipment, whether LTL, FTL, or flatbed.
Q. Do I need insurance when shipping equipment?
It’s strongly recommended. Machinery is often high-value and susceptible to damage in transit. FreightCenter offers affordable freight insurance options for added peace of mind.
Q. What freight class is machinery?
Machinery can fall between Class 85–300 depending on weight, density, packaging, and fragility. Our agents help ensure correct classification to avoid reclass charges.
Q. Do you offer liftgate or crane service for heavy machinery?
Yes. FreightCenter can arrange liftgate delivery, crane loading, or dock access as needed. Always confirm access requirements for your pickup and delivery locations.
Q. Can I ship machinery internationally?
Yes. FreightCenter helps coordinate international equipment shipping, including documentation, customs, and carrier selection.
Q. What documents are required to ship equipment?
You’ll need a Bill of Lading (BOL), a commercial invoice (if international), and any compliance documentation. We generate these for you during the booking process.
Q. Why choose FreightCenter to ship machinery and equipment?
We bring 25+ years of logistics experience, a vast carrier network, and full-service support to ensure your machinery is shipped safely, affordably, and on time every time.
Expert Tips for Safe and Efficient Machinery & Equipment Shipping
Know Your Dimensions Down to the Inch
Even a slight miscalculation can result in delays, re-quoting fees, or the wrong trailer type being dispatched. Before you book, double-check the height, width, length, and weight of your machinery when it's fully loaded, crated, or disassembled. Carriers use these specifications to determine the type of equipment (such as a flatbed vs. RGN) and whether permits are required for oversized loads.
Prep for Rigging and Loading Conditions
Shippers often overlook the importance of accounting for how the equipment will be loaded or unloaded. Will you need a crane or forklift? Is there dock access at pickup and delivery? For full truckload freight, especially on flatbeds or RGNs, it's critical to communicate whether the machinery is drive-on, winchable, or needs lifting assistance. FreightCenter's experts can help arrange rigging if required.
Protect Exposed Components from the Elements
Machinery shipped via open-deck trailers is exposed to weather and road debris. Cover any sensitive areas like control panels, hydraulics, or electronics with waterproof tarps, shrink wrap, or custom-built crates. If weather exposure could cause damage, ask your FreightCenter agent whether Conestoga trailers or enclosed options are available.
