Key Takeaways

• Oversize Cargo refers to goods whose dimensions or weight exceed the standard limits of the Service, Carrier, or Equipment intended for use. There is no single figure that can be used to classify cargo as Oversize across every Mode.
• Before requesting a quote, provide the actual Dimensions and Gross Weight after packing, because the width, length, height, and weight per Piece affect the choice of aircraft, container, truck, and lifting equipment.
• Cargo that cannot fit into a standard Dry Container may require an Open Top, Flat Rack, Breakbulk, or a specialized transportation method, depending on the nature of the Cargo.
• Machinery and Heavy Cargo require planning for the Center of Gravity, Lifting Points, Blocking, Bracing, and Lashing—not merely checking whether the cargo “fits in the container.”
• For an Oversize Shipment, check the Route and Carrier before Packing or Booking because restrictions relating to Equipment, Airports, Ports, Roads, and Permits vary by route.

What Is Oversize Cargo?

Oversize Cargo refers to goods whose dimensions exceed the standard limits of the Transportation Service or Equipment intended for use.

This may be because the cargo is

• Too long
• Too wide
• Too high
• Too heavy per Piece
• Too heavy in total
• Unable to pass through a Container door
• Unable to fit into a ULD or Aircraft Compartment
• Requires specialized lifting equipment or a special vehicle

Examples of goods commonly found in this category include

• Industrial Machinery
• Production Lines
• Generators
• Transformers
• Construction Equipment
• Heavy Spare Parts
• Molds
• Steel Structures
• Tanks
• Vehicles
• Industrial Equipment

However, these types of goods are not necessarily Oversize in every Shipment.

The actual Dimensions and Weight after Packing must be considered.

What Size Qualifies as Oversize Cargo?

There is no single universal standard that applies to every service.

This is an important point that differs from older articles that often cite the limits of a particular Courier as though they were universal criteria.

The term Oversize must be assessed against the transportation method being used.

For example, the same cargo may be

Oversize for a Courier

but still be

General Cargo for Air Cargo

Or it may not fit into a

40’ High Cube

but may be transported on a

Flat Rack

Therefore, before classifying Cargo as Oversize, first answer this question:

Which Service or Equipment is being used as the reference?

What Is the Difference Between Oversize and Overweight?

The two terms are related, but they are not the same.

Oversize Cargo

Cargo whose Dimensions exceed the applicable limits.

For example, it is

• Too long
• Too wide
• Too high

Overweight / Heavy Cargo

Cargo whose weight exceeds the limits of the

• Package
• Equipment
• Vehicle
• Floor
• Route

Some cargo can be

Not very large, but extremely heavy

such as a Metal Block or Machine Part.

Other cargo can be

Very large but lightweight

such as Foam or certain types of Structure.

These two cases require different Logistics planning.

Are Oversize Cargo and Project Cargo the Same?

Not necessarily.

Oversize Cargo

focuses on Cargo that exceeds standard Dimension or Handling Limits.

Project Cargo

refers to transportation for projects that are complex and require special Logistics planning.

A Project Cargo shipment can include

• Oversize Cargo
• Heavy Lift
• Normal Cargo
• Multiple Equipment
• Several Shipments

within the same project.

Examples include

• A new factory
• A Power Plant
• A Construction Project
• Production Line Relocation

Therefore, Oversize and Project Cargo should not be used interchangeably in every case.

What Is OOG Cargo?

OOG stands for

Out of Gauge

It is commonly used in Sea Freight to refer to Cargo that extends beyond the standard dimensions of Container Equipment.

For example, Cargo on a Flat Rack may be

• Over-width
• Over-height
• Over-length

When cargo extends beyond the Standard Gauge, it affects

• Vessel Space
• Stowage
• Lashing
• Terminal Handling
• Freight

The exact Dimensions must therefore be provided before the Shipping Line approves the Booking.

What Transportation Options Are Available for International Oversize Cargo?

The options depend on

• Dimensions
• Weight
• Origin
• Destination
• Lead Time
• Budget
• Equipment Availability

The main options include

• Air Cargo
• Sea Freight
• Road Freight
• Multimodal Transport

Some Shipments may require more than one Mode.

For example,

Special Truck → Port → Flat Rack → Special Truck

or

Low-bed Trailer → Airport → Freighter Aircraft → Truck

Can Oversize Cargo Be Sent by Air Courier?

Courier Services have limits relating to

• Maximum Piece Weight
• Maximum Length
• Length + Girth
• Package Dimensions
• Handling Capability

These limits vary by

• Carrier
• Service
• Origin
• Destination

Cargo may be

• Charged an Oversize Surcharge
• Charged for Additional Handling
• Restricted from certain Services
• Rejected

if a Piece exceeds the dimensions or weight accepted by the Courier Network.

Do not rely on outdated limits from a Carrier or a previous Shipment because requirements can change.

Provide the actual Dimensions to the service provider so they can check the current Service requirements before Booking.

Suggested Internal Link: What Is Air Courier? How Does It Differ from Air Cargo, and Which Goods Is It Suitable For?

Can Oversize Cargo Be Shipped by Air Cargo?

Yes, in many cases.

Air Cargo is suitable for Oversize Shipments that

• Require fast transportation
• Have a high Cargo Value
• Have a strict Deadline
• Are urgent Spare Parts
• Are needed to prevent a Production Line from stopping

However, the main restrictions for Air Cargo are not limited to weight.

Check the following:

• Aircraft Type
• Cargo Door Dimensions
• Cargo Compartment
• ULD
• Piece Weight
• Floor Loading
• Center of Gravity
• Loading Equipment

Why Is Aircraft Type Important?

Each aircraft type has different

• Cargo Doors
• Compartment Heights
• Floor Load Limits
• Loading Systems

Cargo that can be loaded onto a Freighter Aircraft may not fit on a Passenger Aircraft that carries Cargo in its lower-deck hold.

Therefore, knowing that

“there is a flight at this airport”

is not enough.

You must confirm whether that flight uses an Aircraft capable of accepting the specific Cargo Piece.

Why Are Cargo Door Dimensions Important for Air Cargo?

Before Booking, check whether the Package can physically pass through the Cargo Door.

For example,

a Crate that is 160 cm high does not necessarily fit into an Aircraft just because the Compartment Height is close to that measurement.

You must also allow for

• Loading Angle
• Rollers
• Clearance
• Pallets
• Ground Handling

Therefore, provide the Airline or Forwarder with the Length × Width × Height measured after Packing for verification.

Can Heavy Cargo That Is Not Large Be Shipped by Air Cargo?

Possibly, but Floor Loading must be checked.

Very heavy Cargo with a small base creates a high Load Concentration.

For example:

Machine Weight = 3,000 kg

Base = 1 × 1 meter

Even if the Dimensions are not Oversize, the pressure per unit area may exceed the limits of the

• Aircraft
• ULD
• Ground Equipment

The cargo may therefore require

• A Load Spreader
• A Special Base
• Additional Support

depending on Engineering Requirements.

What Are the Sea Freight Options for Oversize Cargo?

Sea Freight can accommodate large Cargo in several ways.

Common options include

• Standard Dry Container
• High Cube Container
• Open Top Container
• Flat Rack Container
• Platform
• Breakbulk
• RoRo, depending on the cargo and Route

First, check whether the Cargo can use Standard Equipment.

If not, consider Special Equipment.

Should You Try a Dry Container First for Large Cargo?

Check the Dimensions first.

Container suitability is not determined by Internal Dimensions alone.

You must also check

• Door Width
• Door Height
• Internal Height
• Internal Width
• Payload

For example,

Cargo may be shorter than the Internal Height but taller than the Door Opening.

It therefore cannot be loaded through the door of a Dry Container.

In this case, consider

• Open Top
• Flat Rack

depending on the cargo.

Suggested Internal Link: How Many Types of Shipping Containers Are There? Learn About 20’, 40’, 40’HC, and Special Containers Before Shipping

What Types of Oversize Cargo Are Suitable for an Open Top Container?

An Open Top is suitable for Cargo that

• Is tall
• Must be loaded from above
• Requires a Crane for loading
• Cannot pass through a standard Container door

Examples include

• Machines
• Industrial Equipment
• Heavy Parts

If the Cargo extends above the top edge of the Container, it becomes Over-height Cargo.

The Shipping Line must be informed so it can calculate additional

• Space
• Stowage
• Handling
• Surcharges

What Types of Oversize Cargo Are Suitable for a Flat Rack?

A Flat Rack is suitable for Cargo with issues relating to

• Width
• Height
• Weight
• Loading Method

because it does not have the side walls found on a standard Dry Container.

Examples include

• Machinery
• Excavator Parts
• Industrial Equipment
• Steel Structures
• Large Crates

Depending on the Equipment configuration and Carrier acceptance, Cargo may be

• Over-width
• Over-height
• Over-length

What Information Is Needed to Ship on a Flat Rack?

Accurate information is required, including

• Cargo Dimensions
• Gross Weight
• Center of Gravity
• Contact Points
• Lifting Points
• Lashing Plan

The Cargo must be secured safely to the Equipment during

• Trucking
• Terminal Handling
• Vessel Movement

What Is Breakbulk?

Breakbulk is a transportation method for Cargo that is not packed into standard Containers.

It can be used for Cargo such as

• Large Machinery
• Heavy Equipment
• Structural Steel
• Project Cargo

The Cargo is loaded onto the Vessel as individual pieces or units, depending on the vessel type and operation.

Breakbulk may be suitable when Cargo is

• Too large for a Flat Rack
• Too heavy for the available Equipment
• Unusually shaped
• In need of Heavy Lift

Availability depends on the Port, Vessel, and Route.

What Types of Goods Are Suitable for RoRo?

RoRo stands for

Roll-on / Roll-off

It is suitable for Cargo that can be

• Driven onto the Vessel
• Towed onto the Vessel
• Placed on Rolling Equipment

Examples include

• Vehicles
• Construction Equipment
• Certain types of Machinery

Availability and acceptance vary by Route.

RoRo is another option worth comparing for certain Cargo types instead of considering only a Flat Rack.

How Is Oversize Cargo Transported by Road Freight?

Road Freight requires checks on restrictions relating to

• Vehicle
• Trailer
• Road
• Bridge
• Height Clearance
• Weight Limit
• Border
• Local Regulations

Oversize Cargo may require vehicles such as

• Flatbed
• Low-bed
• Lowboy
• Extendable Trailer
• Multi-axle Trailer

depending on Dimensions and Weight.

Why Are Low-bed Trailers Used for Large Machinery?

A Low-bed has a lower deck than a standard truck.

This helps reduce the Overall Height of the

Cargo + Trailer

making it suitable for tall Machinery.

Along the Route, there may be restrictions involving

• Bridges
• Power Lines
• Tunnels
• Signage
• Overpasses

The actual Route must still be checked before transportation.

Does Oversize Road Cargo Require a Permit?

It depends on

• Country
• Route
• Overall Dimensions
• Axle Load
• Gross Vehicle Weight

Some Shipments may require

• Oversize Permit
• Overweight Permit
• Escort Vehicle
• Route Restrictions
• Time Restrictions

These rules vary by area.

Do not apply Thailand’s limits to Road Shipments in other countries.

What Is a Route Survey?

A Route Survey is a preliminary inspection of the route for Cargo with large Dimensions or high Weight.

It may check

• Road Width
• Turning Radius
• Bridge Capacity
• Overhead Clearance
• Slope
• Gates
• Utility Lines
• Construction Areas
• Delivery Site

It is suitable for

• Heavy Machinery
• Transformers
• Large Tanks
• Industrial Equipment

especially Shipments delivered to

• Factories
• Construction Sites
• Remote Areas

Why Is It Important to Know the Center of Gravity?

The Center of Gravity, or COG, is the balance point of the Cargo.

It affects

• Lifting
• Loading
• Trucking
• Lashing
• Stability

A symmetrical shape does not necessarily mean that the Center of Gravity is at the center.

For example, a Machine may have a Motor or heavy Component on one side internally.

If a Crane lifts it under the assumption that the COG is centered, the Cargo may

• Tilt
• Rotate
• Slip out of the Sling
• Be damaged

Machinery should therefore have a COG Mark before transportation if the information can be determined.

What Is a Lifting Point?

A Lifting Point is a point designed for lifting Cargo.

Machinery may have features such as

• Lifting Lugs
• Eye Bolts
• Forklift Pockets

depending on its Design.

Do not use an arbitrary point on a Machine as a lifting point without information from the Manufacturer.

For Heavy Cargo, the following may be required as appropriate:

• Lifting Drawing
• Sling Plan
• Crane Capacity

How Important Is Gross Weight?

It is extremely important.

The Gross Weight of Oversize Cargo should be the weight after Packing.

It includes

• Product
• Wooden Crate
• Steel Base
• Pallet
• Blocking
• Securing Material

For example:

Machine = 4,500 kg

Wooden / Steel Packing = 500 kg

Gross Weight =

5,000 kg

If a quote is based on a Net Weight of 4,500 kg but the actual Cargo weighs 5,000 kg, this can affect the

• Truck
• Crane
• Air Freight
• Container Payload
• Handling Cost

Should Oversize Cargo Be Measured Before or After Packing?

Use the Dimensions after Packing for Final Planning.

Packing can significantly increase Dimensions.

For example:

Machine

2.8 × 1.8 × 2.0 meters

After being packed in a Wooden Crate, it may measure

3.1 × 2.1 × 2.3 meters

A difference of only a few dozen centimeters can mean

• Changing from a Dry Container to an Open Top
• Changing from In-gauge to OOG
• Switching from one Aircraft type to another

Therefore, do not Finalize Booking based on the Bare Machine Dimensions.

How Should Oversize Cargo Be Packed?

Packing must take into account

• Weight
• Fragility
• Mode
• Handling
• Weather Exposure

Possible packing methods include

• Wooden Crate
• Wooden Case
• Skid
• Steel Frame
• Shrink Wrap
• Vacuum Packing
• Moisture Barrier

depending on the cargo.

Should Machinery Always Be Packed in a Wooden Crate?

Not necessarily for every Shipment.

Consider

• Machine Sensitivity
• Exposure
• Handling
• Route
• Freight Mode

Some Machinery can be packed using

Skid + Wrapping + Securing

while other Machinery requires a

Full Wooden Crate

especially if it contains

• Electronics
• Fragile Parts
• Precision Components

Must Wooden Crates for Oversize Cargo Meet ISPM 15?

If Raw Wood Packaging is used for an International Shipment, check ISPM 15 according to the Destination Requirements.

Examples include

• Wooden Crates
• Wooden Pallets
• Wooden Skids
• Dunnage
• Blocking

These may fall within the scope of the requirements.

Wood packaging requirements should therefore be checked from the beginning of the packing process.

Suggested Internal Link: What Is ISPM 15? Wooden Packaging, Pallets, and Fumigation for Export

What Are Blocking and Bracing?

Blocking and Bracing are methods of using materials to restrict Cargo movement.

Blocking

Prevents Cargo from moving in a particular direction.

Bracing

Adds structural support and helps secure the Cargo.

These are especially important for

• Machinery
• Heavy Cargo
• Containerized Cargo

because during Transportation, Cargo is subjected to forces from

• Acceleration
• Braking
• Vibration
• Vessel Motion

Strong Packing alone is not enough if the Cargo is not properly Secured inside.

What Is Lashing?

Lashing is the process of securing Cargo to a

• Container
• Flat Rack
• Trailer
• Transport Platform

using equipment such as

• Chains
• Wire Ropes
• Webbing
• Turnbuckles
• Lashing Bars

depending on the cargo.

The number and Capacity of Lashing Points must correspond to the weight and forces expected during Transportation.

For Heavy Cargo, the plan should be prepared by someone with Cargo Securing expertise rather than relying on routine practice alone.

Should Photos Be Provided Before Requesting an Oversize Cargo Quote?

Yes, they are recommended.

Photos help the Forwarder understand details that Dimensions alone cannot show, such as

• Shape
• Base
• Wheels
• Lifting Points
• Protrusions
• Fragile Parts
• Approximate Center of Gravity
• Packing Requirements

For Machinery, provide the following if available:

• Front View
• Side View
• Rear View
• Nameplate
• Drawing

Are Technical Drawings Important?

They are very important for large Cargo.

Drawings can show

• Overall Dimensions
• Weight
• COG
• Lifting Points
• Base Contact
• Forklift Points

This helps the Logistics Provider plan the

• Truck
• Crane
• Container
• Lashing

more accurately.

For some Project Cargo Shipments, a quote without a Drawing may only be possible as a Budgetary Estimate.

How Does Chargeable Weight Affect Oversize Air Cargo?

Air Freight is not based on Actual Weight alone.

It also considers

• Volumetric Weight
• Chargeable Weight

This is particularly important for Cargo that is

Large but lightweight

because its Chargeable Weight can be very high.

Oversize Pieces may also incur additional charges for

• Special Handling
• Aircraft Restrictions
• Build-up Requirements

Suggested Internal Link: What Determines International Shipping Costs? How Do Actual Weight, Volumetric Weight, and CBM Differ?

Is Oversize Sea Freight Priced Based on CBM Alone?

No.

OOG or Special Equipment Pricing may take into account

• Equipment Type
• Occupied Slots
• Lost Slot
• Dimensions
• Weight
• Vessel
• Route
• Handling

Cargo extending beyond a Flat Rack may occupy space where other Containers would normally be placed.

Shipping Lines may therefore apply an OOG Surcharge or special pricing.

Do not estimate the cost using only

CBM × LCL Rate

What Is a Lost Slot?

If Cargo on a Flat Rack extends beyond the Equipment in height or width, the Shipping Line may be unable to load other Containers beside or above it.

The space lost in this way is referred to operationally as a

Lost Slot

This is one reason why OOG Shipment Freight can be higher than the rate for a standard Container, even if the Cargo does not occupy much space in terms of CBM.

Does Oversize Cargo Need Insurance?

Cargo Insurance is not legally mandatory for every Shipment, but it should be seriously considered.

Oversize Cargo often involves

• High Cargo Value
• Multiple Handling Stages
• Crane Operations
• Special Equipment
• Long Routes

If Damage occurs, Repair or Replacement costs can be high.

Check the following before Shipment:

• Cargo Insurance
• Coverage
• Packing Requirements
• Survey Requirements

Suggested Internal Link: What Is Cargo Insurance? What Does International Cargo Insurance Cover?

Is a Pre-shipment Survey Necessary?

It depends on

• Cargo Value
• Size
• Weight
• Insurance
• Complexity

For some Shipments, the Insurer, Carrier, or Project Owner may request a Survey to verify

• Packing
• Cargo Condition
• Lifting
• Lashing
• Loading

before Departure.

For high-value Machinery, keeping a Condition Record before transportation also helps determine whether Damage occurred

• Before Packing
• During Transportation
• After Delivery

Does Oversize Cargo Go Through Customs Differently from Normal Cargo?

The basic Customs requirements remain the same, including key information such as

• Product Description
• HS Code
• Value
• Origin
• Permit

depending on the cargo.

The added complexity is usually related to

• Physical Inspection
• Handling
• Port / Airport Movement
• Equipment

If Customs needs to inspect Cargo packed in a Wooden Crate or on a Flat Rack, plan how the inspection and Re-packing can be carried out.

Do Machines Need an HS Code?

They need an appropriate Classification for the Customs Declaration.

The term

Machine

is too broad.

Useful information includes

• Function
• Model
• Technical Specifications
• Capacity
• Operating Principle

to help determine the Classification.

Machines and Machine Parts may also have different HS Codes.

Suggested Internal Link: What Is an HS Code? How to Find Customs Tariff Codes and Why They Matter for Import and Export Duties

Does Used Machinery Have Different Logistics Requirements from New Machinery?

Yes.

For Used Machinery, check additional factors such as

• Condition
• Oil / Fuel
• Contamination
• Battery
• Wooden Packing
• Import Regulations

Some countries or types of goods may have additional rules for Used Equipment.

Insurance Coverage may also differ from that for New Machinery.

The condition of the goods should therefore be Declared accurately.

Can Machinery Containing Oil Be Shipped?

The following must be checked:

• Type of Oil
• Quantity
• Leakage Risk
• SDS, where applicable
• Carrier Rules

Some Machinery contains

• Lubricant
• Hydraulic Oil
• Fuel Residue

which may affect Transportation Classification or Carrier Acceptance.

Do not describe the cargo simply as

Machine

without disclosing the liquids or substances inside.

Must Machinery with Batteries Be Declared?

Yes.

This is especially important for

• Lithium Batteries
• Lead-acid Batteries

because Transportation Regulations vary depending on Battery Type and Configuration.

Useful information includes

• Battery Chemistry
• Capacity
• Installed / Separate
• Quantity

If the Battery can be removed, some Shipments may need separate Packing arrangements in accordance with the applicable rules.

Does Oversize Cargo Require More Planning Time Than General Cargo?

In general, more Planning Time should be allowed.

The Shipment may need to wait for

• Equipment
• Airline Approval
• Shipping Line Approval
• Special Truck
• Crane
• Permit
• Route Survey
• Packing
• Lashing Plan

Do not use the Lead Time for General Cargo as the timeline for an Oversize Shipment.

If the cargo has a Deadline, start Logistics Planning before Packing is complete.

Steps for Shipping Oversize Cargo Internationally

Step 1: Collect Cargo Information

Prepare

• Product Name
• Photo
• Drawing
• Dimensions
• Weight
• Quantity

Step 2: Check Dimensions After Packing

Final Quotes and Bookings should use the actual Packing Dimensions.

Step 3: Check Cargo Restrictions

For example,

• Battery
• Oil
• Chemical
• DG
• Import Permit

Step 4: Select the Transportation Mode

Compare

• Air
• Sea
• Road

based on the Deadline and Cost.

Step 5: Select the Equipment

For example,

• Dry Container
• Open Top
• Flat Rack
• Breakbulk
• Low-bed
• Freighter Aircraft

Step 6: Plan Packing and Cargo Securing

Check

• Wooden Crate
• ISPM 15
• Lashing
• Blocking
• Bracing

Step 7: Plan Loading / Unloading

Check

• Crane
• Forklift
• Lifting Points
• Site Access

Step 8: Check the Route

This is especially important for Heavy / Oversize Road Transport.

Step 9: Prepare Customs Documents

Check

• Invoice
• Packing List
• HS Code
• Permit

Step 10: Finalize the Booking

Confirm the Equipment and Schedule after all information has been checked.

Example 1: Machinery That Fits in a 40’ HC Container

Assume the Machine measures the following after Packing:

• Length: 5.0 meters
• Width: 2.0 meters
• Height: 2.2 meters
• Weight: 5,000 kg

The Dimensions may fit within the Container’s available space.

However, you must still check

• Door Opening
• Loading Method
• Payload
• Floor Loading

If all requirements are met, a Dry / High Cube Container may be considered. A Flat Rack is not automatically necessary just because the cargo is Machinery.

Example 2: Machinery That Is Too Tall for the Container Door

Machine Dimensions after Packing:

• Length: 4 meters
• Width: 2 meters
• Height: 2.8 meters

Although the Length and Width are not especially large, the Height may exceed the Dry Container Door Opening.

Options to check include

• Open Top
• Flat Rack

Then compare

• Freight
• Equipment Availability
• Cargo Protection

Example 3: Cargo That Is Wider Than a Container

Cargo Dimensions:

• Length: 6 meters
• Width: 3.1 meters
• Height: 2.2 meters

The Cargo is Over-width.

It may therefore require a

• Flat Rack
• Breakbulk

depending on the Route.

The exact overhanging Width must be provided because it affects Vessel Space.

Example 4: Large Spare Parts Needed Urgently

Machine Part:

• 1 Piece
• Weight: 1,500 kg
• Large Dimensions
• The destination factory has stopped Production while waiting for the part

Although Air Freight costs more than Sea Freight, the Cost of Delay may be greater than the Freight Difference.

Air Cargo should therefore be checked before deciding to ship by sea.

What Information Is Needed to Request an Oversize Cargo Quote?

Provide complete information from the outset.

• Product Name
• Product Description
• Photos from Multiple Angles
• Technical Drawing, if available
• Number of Pieces
• Dimensions per Piece after Packing
• Gross Weight per Piece
• Total Weight
• Center of Gravity, where applicable
• Lifting Points
• Packing Type
• Stackable / Non-stackable
• Battery / Oil / Chemical
• Dangerous Goods Status
• Pickup Address
• Destination
• Incoterms
• Cargo Ready Date
• Required Delivery Date
• Crane Requirement
• Forklift Requirement

If the Dimensions are still estimates, clearly label them as

Estimated Dimension

so the Provider does not use them as Final Booking Data.

Why Can a Difference of Just 10–20 cm Matter So Much?

Oversize Shipments are often close to the Physical Limits of the Equipment.

An increase of just 10 cm in Height may mean that the Cargo

• Cannot fit into the Aircraft
• Cannot pass through the Container Door
• Becomes OOG
• Requires a different Trailer
• Requires a different Route

Final Measurements must therefore be checked after actual Packing.

Do not rely on Catalogue Dimensions if Packing changes the size.

What Costs Are Involved in Oversize Cargo?

In addition to the Main Freight, charges may include

• Special Truck
• Crane
• Forklift
• Packing
• Lashing
• Special Handling
• OOG Surcharge
• Heavy Lift Charge
• Port Handling
• Permit
• Escort
• Route Survey
• Storage
• Survey
• Insurance

depending on the Shipment.

Comparisons should therefore be based on the

Total Logistics Cost

rather than the Main Freight alone.

Why Does an Oversize Quote Take Longer Than a General Cargo Quote?

The Provider may need to consult several parties, such as

• Airline
• Shipping Line
• Port
• Trucking Provider
• Equipment Supplier
• Crane Operator
• Overseas Agent

Some Quotes require Operational Approval before they can be confirmed.

Providing complete information at the start helps reduce follow-up questions.

Common Mistakes When Shipping Oversize Cargo

• Providing Dimensions before Packing
• Providing Net Weight instead of Gross Weight
• Not providing Cargo Photos
• Not providing a Drawing
• Not knowing the Center of Gravity
• Not declaring Batteries
• Not declaring Oil / Chemicals
• Not checking the Cargo Door
• Looking only at the Container’s Internal Dimensions
• Not checking Payload
• Not checking Floor Loading
• Not planning the Loading Method
• Looking for Freight only after Packing is complete
• Using Wooden Crates without checking ISPM 15
• Not checking Lifting Points
• Not having a Lashing Plan
• Not checking the Route
• Assuming every item can be shipped in a Sea Freight Container
• Assuming every Carrier uses the same Oversize criteria
• Using outdated Courier limits as current criteria
• Choosing the cheapest Freight without considering Handling Costs

Checklist Before Shipping Machinery and Oversize Cargo

Before Booking, check

• Product Name
• Function
• HS Code
• Quantity
• Dimensions after Packing
• Gross Weight after Packing
• Photos
• Technical Drawing
• Center of Gravity
• Lifting Points
• Forklift Pockets
• Packing Type
• ISPM 15
• Stackable / Non-stackable
• Battery
• Oil
• Chemical
• Dangerous Goods
• Mode of Transport
• Equipment Type
• Pickup Access
• Delivery Access
• Crane
• Truck
• Route
• Permit
• Cargo Insurance
• Incoterms
• Cargo Ready Date
• Required Delivery Date

Frequently Asked Questions About Oversize Cargo (FAQ)

What Is Oversize Cargo?

Oversize Cargo refers to goods whose dimensions exceed the standard limits of the Carrier, Service, or Equipment intended for use, requiring additional Transportation and Handling planning.

How Many Centimeters Qualify as Oversize?

There is no single measurement for every Shipment. Limits depend on the Carrier and Mode, such as Courier, Air Cargo, Container, or Road Freight.

Can Machinery Be Shipped by Air?

Yes, in many cases. However, Dimensions, Piece Weight, Aircraft Type, Cargo Door, Floor Loading, and Airline Acceptance must be checked before Booking.

Which Type of Container Is Suitable for Machinery?

If the Dimensions fit within a Standard Container, a Dry or High Cube Container may be used. If the cargo is too tall or wide, an Open Top, Flat Rack, or another option may be required.

What Is a Flat Rack Used For?

It is suitable for Machinery, Heavy Equipment, and Cargo that is Over-width, Over-height, or cannot fit into a Dry Container.

Are Oversize and Heavy Cargo the Same?

No. Oversize refers to cargo that exceeds dimensional limits, while Heavy / Overweight refers to cargo that exceeds weight limits. Cargo can fall into either category or both at the same time.

Should Cargo Dimensions for a Quote Be Measured Before or After Crating?

Use the Dimensions after Packing for the Final Quote and Booking because Crates, Pallets, or Skids can significantly increase Dimensions and Weight.

Does Oversize Cargo Need Insurance?

Insurance is not mandatory for every Shipment, but it should be considered, especially for Machinery and high-value Cargo that undergoes multiple Handling stages.

Do Wooden Crates for Machinery Need to Meet ISPM 15?

If Raw Wood Packaging falls within the scope of the requirements and is shipped internationally to a Destination that applies them, ISPM 15 must be checked before Shipment.

Why Must the Center of Gravity Be Declared?

It affects lifting, Cargo positioning, and stability. If the COG is not centered, incorrect lifting or Lashing can cause the Cargo to tilt or become damaged.

Oversize Cargo and Machinery Transportation Services with CPL INTER

CPL INTER provides international transportation services, including

• Air Cargo
• Sea Freight
• Road Freight
• Cross-border Transportation

with coordination for

• Packing
• Wooden Crates
• Special Equipment
• Shipping Documents
• Customs Clearance
• Warehousing
• Delivery

subject to the Service Scope and nature of the Shipment.

For Machinery, Heavy Cargo, or goods that may be Oversize, provide the information before Packing or Booking so the Transportation Options can be assessed from the outset.

The information to prepare includes

• Product Name and Photos
• Technical Drawing
• Number of Pieces
• Dimensions after Packing or Estimated Packing Dimensions
• Gross Weight per Piece
• Center of Gravity, where applicable
• Lifting Points
• Packing Requirements
• Origin and Destination Countries
• Cargo Ready Date
• Required Delivery Date
• Incoterms
• Any Battery, Oil, or Chemical contained in the goods

This enables the CPL INTER team to help assess whether Air Cargo, a Standard Container, Open Top, Flat Rack, Road Freight, or another Transportation Solution is suitable for the Shipment.

Restrictions relating to Dimensions, Weight, Carrier, Aircraft, Shipping Line, Equipment, and Road Permits can vary by Route and may change. Always check the current requirements against the actual Cargo information before confirming a Booking.

Tel: 02-519-4426 / 091-519-4426
LINE: @cplinter

Written by: CPL Inter Logistics Operations Team, specialists in international freight transportation and customs clearance, with more than 15 years of experience and an internationally recognized ISO 9001:2015 quality management system.