How Do I Ship a Roll Forming Machine Internationally?

HS Code (Harmonized System Code)

Step 1️⃣ Confirm Export Classification (Before Anything Moves)

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.

Step 2️⃣ Determine Incoterms Clearly

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.

Step 3️⃣ Perform Pre-Shipment Inspection

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.

Step 4️⃣ Disconnect & Secure Components Properly

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.

Step 5️⃣ Proper Industrial Packing

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.

Step 6️⃣ Choose Shipping Method

Container Shipping

• 20ft / 40ft container

• Suitable for smaller lines

• Cost-effective

Flat Rack / Open Top

• For long or oversized machines

Breakbulk / Ro-Ro

• For very large structural lines

Oversized loads require special permits.

Step 7️⃣ Secure Marine Insurance

Always insure:

• ✔ Full machine value
• ✔ Freight cost
• ✔ Accessories
• ✔ Tooling
• ✔ Spare parts

Use:

• All-risk marine cargo insurance

Do not rely solely on carrier liability.

Step 8️⃣ Prepare Required Documents

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.

Step 9️⃣ Plan Destination Import Requirements

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.

Step 🔟 Plan Port & Inland Delivery

Consider:

• ✔ Port handling charges
• ✔ Container return rules
• ✔ Demurrage deadlines
• ✔ Inland transport access
• ✔ Crane availability
• ✔ Forklift capacity
• ✔ Offloading plan

Improper unloading causes damage.

Step 11️⃣ Installation Preparation Before Arrival

Ensure site has:

• ✔ Correct voltage
• ✔ Sufficient amperage
• ✔ Air supply
• ✔ Foundation level
• ✔ Space clearance
• ✔ Rigging equipment

Many delays occur because factory is not ready.

Step 12️⃣ Inspect Upon Arrival Immediately

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.

Common International Shipping Risks

• 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.

Cost Components to Expect

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.

Typical Timeline

Production completion → Packing → Export clearance → Ocean transit → Import clearance → Inland delivery → Installation

Total international timeline:

4–10 weeks typical (depending on route).

Final Expert Insight

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.