Efficient Global Transport for Agricultural Harvesters
Shipping a combine harvester internationally takes tight planning, proven logistics, and cost control.
Whether you’re moving a John Deere S790, Case IH Axial-Flow, or Massey Ferguson 9500, follow the steps below to keep your self-propelled or towed harvester safe, on schedule, and on budget.
Choosing the Right Transport Method
- RoRo (Roll-On/Roll-Off)
Drive the combine directly onto the vessel deck. Ideal for self-propelled machines with running gear. Typical intercontinental budget: USD 8,000–15,000. - LoLo (Lift-On/Lift-Off)
Port cranes lift static combines into the hold. Best when the unit cannot roll. Budget: USD 12,000–20,000 including crane and stevedoring. - Flat-Rack / Oversize
Secure wide headers and long pieces on flat-rack containers with engineered lashings. Budget: USD 10,000–18,000. Oversize permits and special gear may add 10–20%. - FCL (Full Container Load)
Pack compact harvesters or disassembled headers into a 40′ HC. Rates: USD 4,000–7,000. Add blocking and bracing to protect the load. See our heavy equipment shipping overview. - Air Cargo
Move urgent parts—belts, hydraulic pumps, control modules—when time is tight. Starts around USD 25/kg. Best for small, high-value items. Learn about shipping machinery by air.
Coordinating a multi-leg move? See our international freight forwarding services for end-to-end control.
Preparing the Machine
- Clean and Inspect
Pressure-wash residue and crop debris. Inspect for dents, leaks, or cracked welds. Photograph the condition. - Safe Staging
Park on a flat, clear pad with at least 10 ft of perimeter clearance. - Fold or Remove Header
Reduce width on draper or flex headers per the OEM manual. - Lash and Protect
Use ratchet straps or cable lashings at factory tie-down points. Pad sensor pods, auger motors, and hoses.
Heavy-Haul Trailers for Inland Moves
- Removable Gooseneck (RGN)
Best for full-size combines like the Massey Ferguson 9500. The detachable neck eases on/off. - Drop-Deck / Lowboy
Accommodates header-on shipments under common bridge heights. - Flatbed
For smaller units on skids. Remove wheels, chain, and edge-protect contact points.
We plan routing, permits, escorts, and crane time through our heavy-haul trucking team.
International Shipping from the USA
Step 1: Select an Export Port
- Houston handles RoRo and LoLo for heavy ag machines—ideal for project logistics.
- Savannah excels at flat-rack and container programs.
- Los Angeles serves Asia and Oceania lanes for farm equipment.
Step 2: Inland to Port
Book RGN or lowboy, confirm axle-load limits, and secure OS/OW permits plus pilot cars as needed.
Step 3: Export Documents
File EEI via AES for shipments ≥ USD 2,500. Provide commercial invoice, packing list, title certificate, and EPA emissions compliance when required.
Step 4: Ocean Booking
Reserve space 4–6 weeks ahead for Europe and 5–7 weeks for Asia to align with harvest windows.
Step 5: Customs and Delivery
Use local brokers for clearance and final-mile trucking. For destination insights, see shipping to Israel and shipping to Sweden.
Cost Drivers for Harvester Transport
- Method and Distance
RoRo vs. LoLo vs. flat-rack; route mileage and transshipment. - Dimensions and Weight
Oversize or overweight loads add permits, escorts, and special gear. - Inland Haulage
RGN USD 3,000–6,000 per 500 mi; lowboy USD 2,500–5,000; flatbed USD 1,500–3,000. - Permits and Escorts
OS/OW permits USD 200–800 each; escorts USD 1.50–3.00/mi. - Customs, Duties, Insurance
Broker USD 300–600; duties 0–10%; all-risk coverage 0.5–2.0% of value. More tips in logistics troubleshooting.
Indicative Door-to-Door Budget
RoRo a 20-ton John Deere combine from Houston to Rotterdam—including inland haul, permits, and insurance—often runs USD 18,000–25,000.
Important Considerations
- OS/OW Rules vary by state or country—routes and travel hours can change day to day.
- Weight Capacity must match trailer ratings and tractor specs.
- Cargo Insurance—pair ocean coverage with inland legs via all-risk policies.
- Professional Crews—use certified riggers, hydraulic jacks, and survey-backed lashing plans from Texas International Freight.
Ready to ship your combine? Request a custom quote. Our team handles every step of your harvester transport so your equipment arrives safe, on time, and within budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I ship a combine without removing the header?
Yes, via flat-rack or LoLo if folded to fit height and width. Lash the header to OEM points and protect sensors to avoid penalties.
Q2: How do I block and brace inside a container?
Chock wheel hubs with hardwood, band axles with steel strap, and use airbags between folded header panels. Add desiccants for long voyages.
Q3: Which permits do oversize loads require?
State or national OS/OW permits specify route, axle loads, travel hours, and escort needs. We obtain permits and arrange pilot cars.
Q4: When should I book transport?
Reserve ocean space at least 6 weeks ahead of target departure. Book inland trucking and brokerage 2–3 weeks before pickup.
Q5: What documents do customs require?
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, title or ownership docs when needed, and any emissions or phytosanitary certificates.
