Every roll forming machine must have:
HS Code (Harmonized System Code)
Export classification
Commercial invoice description
Country of origin
Incorrect HS code leads to customs delays and incorrect duties.
Work with:
✔ Freight forwarder
✔ Customs broker
✔ Export documentation specialist
Classification is critical.
Before shipment, confirm:
EXW (Ex Works)
FOB (Free On Board)
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)
DAP/DDP (Delivered at Place / Delivered Duty Paid)
Incoterms determine:
Who pays freight
Who pays insurance
Who handles customs
Who carries risk
Never ship without written Incoterms agreement.
Before crating:
✔ Photograph entire machine
✔ Photograph control panel
✔ Photograph tooling
✔ Record serial numbers
✔ Confirm accessories included
✔ Confirm spare parts included
Inspection protects against damage claims.
Prepare machine for transport:
✔ Remove loose tooling
✔ Lock moving carriages
✔ Secure shear head
✔ Drain fluids if required
✔ Label cables
✔ Protect exposed shafts
Transport vibration is severe — assume rough handling.
Roll forming machines are heavy and long.
Packing methods:
✔ Heat-treated wooden crates (ISPM-15 compliant)
✔ Steel base frame
✔ Anti-corrosion wrap
✔ Moisture barrier film
✔ Desiccant packs
✔ Shock indicators (optional)
Ocean freight requires moisture protection.
Condensation ruins electronics and tooling.
20ft / 40ft container
Suitable for smaller lines
Cost-effective
For long or oversized machines
For very large structural lines
Oversized loads require special permits.
Always insure:
✔ Full machine value
✔ Freight cost
✔ Accessories
✔ Tooling
✔ Spare parts
Use:
All-risk marine cargo insurance
Do not rely solely on carrier liability.
Standard export documents include:
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Bill of lading
Certificate of origin
CE/UKCA/UL documentation (if required)
Technical manual
Insurance certificate
Export declaration
Missing paperwork is the #1 cause of port delays.
Each country has:
Different tariffs
Different import duties
VAT or GST
Safety certifications
Electrical standards
For example:
Voltage differences
Frequency (50Hz vs 60Hz)
Local safety labeling requirements
Verify before shipment leaves origin.
Consider:
✔ Port handling charges
✔ Container return rules
✔ Demurrage deadlines
✔ Inland transport access
✔ Crane availability
✔ Forklift capacity
✔ Offloading plan
Improper unloading causes damage.
Ensure site has:
✔ Correct voltage
✔ Sufficient amperage
✔ Air supply
✔ Foundation level
✔ Space clearance
✔ Rigging equipment
Many delays occur because factory is not ready.
When machine arrives:
✔ Inspect before unloading
✔ Photograph condition
✔ Check for damage
✔ Note damage on bill of lading
✔ Notify insurer immediately
Insurance claims require documented proof.
1️⃣ Moisture damage to PLC
2️⃣ Rust on tooling
3️⃣ Frame distortion from improper lifting
4️⃣ Missing documentation
5️⃣ Customs clearance delays
6️⃣ Incorrect HS classification
7️⃣ Container demurrage fees
Planning prevents cost escalation.
Shipping cost includes:
Freight charges
Port handling
Customs clearance
Import duties
Insurance
Inland trucking
Crating and packing
Inspection fees
Freight is only one part of total landed cost.
Production completion → Packing → Export clearance → Ocean transit → Import clearance → Inland delivery → Installation
Total international timeline:
4–10 weeks typical (depending on route).
To ship a roll forming machine internationally:
✔ Confirm HS code
✔ Agree Incoterms
✔ Document everything
✔ Secure machine properly
✔ Protect from moisture
✔ Insure correctly
✔ Prepare complete documentation
✔ Plan import compliance
✔ Prepare site in advance
✔ Inspect immediately on arrival
International shipping is a logistics and compliance process — not just freight booking.
Proper preparation avoids delays, damage, and unexpected cost.
Copyright 2026 © Machine Matcher.