Backhoe Loaders Shipping
Backhoe Loader Shipping & Transport
On This Page
Ship Your Backhoe Loaders
Get expert advice on the best shipping solution for your equipment.
Related Equipment
Overview
Backhoe loaders are among the most commonly shipped construction machines. Their versatile size makes them suitable for multiple shipping methods including RoRo, container, and standard trucking.
We handle high volumes of backhoe shipments for manufacturers, dealers, rental companies, and contractors. Our network ensures competitive rates and reliable service.
From basic 2WD models to advanced 4WD units with extendable dippers, we ship them all.
Typical Specifications
| Weight Range | 6 - 12 metric tons |
| Overall Width | 2.3m - 2.5m |
| Overall Height | 2.7m - 3.8m |
| Overall Length | 5.5m - 7.5m |
Recommended Shipping Methods
40' High Cube Container
Possible with some preparation/disassembly.
Flat Rack Container
RecommendedGood option maintaining full height.
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
RecommendedMost economical for wheeled backhoes.
Standard Trucking
RecommendedNo permits typically required for inland moves.
Container, flat rack, RoRo or breakbulk?
We quote in this order because it is usually cheapest first. Most machines that look too big for a box fit once our crew takes off the bucket, boom, cab or wheels; larger ones are taken further apart across several containers, and pieces too big or heavy for a flat rack or roll trailer go breakbulk.
01Container
- Work needed
- We partially disassemble when needed (bucket, boom, cab, wheels), or take larger machines further apart across several high-cubes and open-tops, then crate, block and lash every part.
- Destinations
- Widest: almost every port worldwide, plus inland delivery by rail.
- Typical cost
- Usually the lowest, with no out-of-gauge surcharges.
- Protection
- Sealed steel box; loose parts and attachments travel locked inside.
- Best for
- Most machines: compact ones as they are, others after partial disassembly, and large ones split across several containers.
02Flat rack
- Work needed
- Ships assembled, blocked and lashed. Surcharges apply when wider than 2.4 m or taller than about 1.95 m.
- Destinations
- Most container ports, on the same vessels as containers.
- Typical cost
- Moderate; rises with every centimetre out of gauge.
- Protection
- Open to the weather; we protect cabs, electronics and hydraulics.
- Best for
- Excavators, dozers and loaders too wide for a container door.
03RoRo
- Work needed
- Drives on assembled; non-runners go on a roll trailer.
- Destinations
- Fewer destinations: regular lanes to Europe, West Africa, the Middle East, Oceania and parts of Latin America.
- Typical cost
- Often competitive for large self-propelled machines where a lane exists.
- Protection
- Below deck, but loose items and attachments cannot ride inside the cab.
- Best for
- Running machines going to a port with regular RoRo sailings.
04Breakbulk
- Work needed
- Lifted aboard piece by piece by ship’s or shore cranes, on its own skids or cradle, then stowed and lashed in the hold or on deck.
- Destinations
- Ports with breakbulk berths and heavy-lift cranes; sailings are booked voyage by voyage.
- Typical cost
- Usually the highest for a single small machine; often the only option for the largest pieces.
- Protection
- In the hold or lashed on deck; we crate, wrap and protect exposed parts.
- Best for
- Pieces too large or heavy for a flat rack or roll trailer: transformers, process modules, mining trucks, crane sections.
Handling & Preparation Requirements
- Loader bucket lowered, backhoe bucket curled
- Stabilizers fully retracted
- Boom secured in transport position
- Remove or fold ROPS if containerizing
- Standard fuel/fluid levels acceptable
- Document hours and condition
Common Models We Ship
Frequently Asked Questions
Can backhoes fit in a container?
With preparation (ROPS removal, attachments off), many backhoes can fit in a 40' high cube container. Flat rack is easier if height is an issue.
Is RoRo or container cheaper for backhoes?
RoRo is typically cheaper for single units. Containers may be competitive for multiple units to the same destination.
Do backhoes need special permits for trucking?
Most backhoes are within legal dimensions and don't require permits for US highway transport.
Plan your shipment
Import Duty & Tax Estimator
Estimate duty and VAT on the CIF value for 70+ destinations.
Dimensional Weight Calculator
Work out chargeable weight before you book.
Container Space Calculator
See how your cargo fits in 20ft, 40ft, and HC containers.
Route Finder
Load port, sailings, duty and rules for a machine and destination.
Ready to Ship Your Backhoe Loaders?
Get a customized quote for your equipment. Our experts handle backhoe loaders shipments worldwide.