Project Cargo 101: Moving Industrial Machinery from India

What is Project Cargo?

Project cargo refers to the transportation of large, heavy, high-value, or complex pieces of equipment that cannot be shipped using standard freight methods. Industrial machinery — CNC machines, power presses, textile looms, agricultural equipment — typically qualifies as project cargo.

• Individual pieces too large or heavy for standard containers
• Requires special containers: flat rack, open top, or break bulk vessel
• Often involves ODC (Over-Dimensional Cargo) road transport
• Requires engineering planning, not just booking a container
• Higher cargo value demands comprehensive marine insurance

Step 1: Engineering Survey and Cargo Assessment

Every project cargo shipment starts with a detailed cargo assessment. Dimensions, weight, centre of gravity, and any fragile or sensitive components must be identified before planning begins.

• Measure fully assembled dimensions: length, width, height
• Obtain accurate weight — per piece and total
• Identify fragile components that need special handling
• Determine whether dismantling is possible and advisable
• Photograph cargo for insurance and handling reference

Step 2: Road Transport — ODC Considerations

Moving large machinery from factory to port or ICD is often the most complex part of the journey. If the cargo exceeds standard road transport dimensions, it qualifies as ODC and requires advance planning.

• Standard road dimensions: 2.6m wide, 4.2m high — excess requires ODC permit
• Route survey: bridges, overpasses, power lines, and turning radii assessed
• State permits: obtained from each state's highway authority along the route
• Police escort: usually required for wide or very long loads
• Low-bed or multi-axle trailers used for heavy or wide equipment
• Night movement often required to avoid traffic

Step 3: Selecting the Right Container or Vessel

Step 4: Packing and Securing Machinery

Machinery must be secured in the container or on a flat rack to prevent movement during sea transit. Inadequate securing is a leading cause of machinery damage claims.

• Timber blocking and chocking to immobilise the machine
• Steel lashing straps rated for cargo weight
• VCI film wrapping for exposed metal surfaces
• Desiccants inside any enclosed sections
• Fumigated timber required for most international destinations (ISPM 15)
• Lashing plan should be prepared by a qualified marine surveyor for high-value cargo

Step 5: Documentation for Machinery Exports

• Commercial Invoice with detailed machinery description and HS code
• Packing List with weights and dimensions
• Shipping Bill filed on ICEGATE
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
• Certificate of Origin (if FTA benefit applicable)
• Inspection certificate if buyer requires
• Manufacturer's test certificate where required
• Marine insurance certificate — critical for high-value cargo

Frequently Asked Questions