Efficient Global Transport for Agricultural Harvesters
Shipping a combine harvester internationally demands precise planning, logistics expertise, and cost control.
Whether you’re moving a John Deere S790, Case IH Axial-Flow, or Massey Ferguson 9500, these steps ensure your self-propelled or towed harvester arrives safely, on schedule, and within budget.
1. Choosing the Right Transport Method
- RoRo (Roll-On/Roll-Off)
Drive your combine directly onto the vessel’s deck. Ideal for self-propelled machines with running gear. Typical cost: USD 8,000–15,000 intercontinentally. - LoLo (Lift-On/Lift-Off)
Use port cranes to lift a static combine into the hold. Best when it can’t drive aboard. Rates: USD 12,000–20,000, including crane and stevedoring. - Flat-Rack/Oversize
Secure oversized headers—wide grain platforms or large feeder housings—on flat-rack containers. Budget USD 10,000–18,000. OS/OW permits and special lashings add 10–20%. - FCL (Full Container Load)
Pack compact harvesters or disassembled headers in a 40′ HC container. Rates USD 4,000–7,000. You handle blocking and bracing for added protection. Learn more in our guide to shipping heavy equipment. - Air Cargo
Ship critical parts—belt assemblies or hydraulic pumps—for Case IH machines when time is tight. Starts around USD 25/kg. Best for small, high-value items. See our guide on shipping heavy machinery by air.
For complex international projects, learn more about our international freight forwarding services.
2. Preparing the Machine
- Clean and Inspect
Pressure-wash residue and crop debris. Inspect for dents, leaks, or damaged welds. Photograph for condition record. - Proper Parking
Choose a flat, obstruction-free pad with at least 10 ft clearance. - Fold the Header
Reduce width on draper or flex headers per the owner’s manual. - Secure the Header
Use ratchet straps or steel-cable lashings at factory tie-down points. Pad sensor pods and auger motors.
3. Heavy Haul Trailers for Inland Moves
- Removable Gooseneck (RGN): Best for full-size combines like the Massey Ferguson 9500. Detachable gooseneck eases on/off.
- Drop-Deck/Lowboy: Accommodates header-on shipments under overpasses.
- Flatbed: For smaller harvesters on skid; wheels removed, chained and edge-protected.
4. International Shipping from the USA
Step 1: Select Export Port
- Houston handles heavy RoRo and LoLo—ideal for Combine Harvester Transport Services.
- Savannah excels in flat-rack and container moves.
- Los Angeles serves Asia & Oceania routes—see more in how to ship a combine overseas.
Step 2: Inland Transport to Port
Book RGN or lowboy trailer, verify axle-load limits, and secure OS/OW permits plus pilot cars where needed.
Step 3: Export Documentation
File EEI via AES for shipments ≥ USD 2,500. Provide commercial invoice, packing list, title certificate, and EPA emissions compliance.
Step 4: Ocean Leg Booking
Reserve vessel space 4–6 weeks before departure for Europe, and 5–7 weeks for Asia.
Step 5: Destination Customs & Delivery
Hire local brokers to clear duties and arrange inland trucking. For country-specific guides, explore our pages on shipping to Israel and shipping to Sweden.
5. Cost Drivers for Harvester Transport
- Transport Method & Distance: RoRo vs. LoLo vs. flat-rack; ocean miles.
- Machine Dimensions & Weight: Oversize/overweight loads add permit and escort fees.
- Inland Haulage: RGN USD 3,000–6,000 per 500 mi; lowboy USD 2,500–5,000; flatbed USD 1,500–3,000.
- Permits & Escort: OS/OW permits USD 200–800 each; escorts USD 1.50–3.00/mi.
- Customs, Duties & Insurance: Broker fees USD 300–600; duties 0–10%; all-risk insurance 0.5–2.0% of value. Explore details in our post on shipping costs and troubleshooting.
Estimate:
Shipping a 20 ton John Deere combine via RoRo from Houston to Rotterdam, including inland haul, permits, and insurance, runs USD 18,000–25,000 door-to-door.
Important Considerations
- OS/OW Permits vary by jurisdiction.
- Weight Capacity must match trailer and truck.
- Insurance: All-risk ocean cargo plus inland-leg coverage.
- Professional Hauling: Certified riggers, hydraulic jacks, and heavy-haul expertise from Texas International Freight.
Ready for seamless Combine Machinery Shipping?
Request your custom quote from Texas International Freight today—our experts handle every step of your Combine Harvester Transport Services to ensure your equipment arrives safe, on time, and within budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I ship my combine without removing the header?
Yes—flat-rack or LoLo moves allow header-on shipments if folded to fit. Strap securely to avoid height penalties.
Q2: How do I block and brace inside a container?
Use hardwood chocks at wheel hubs, steel-band straps on axles, and airbags between folded header sections.
Q3: What permits do I need for oversize loads?
Secure OS/OW permits for each state or country, specifying route, travel times, and escort requirements.
Q4: When should I book transport?
Reserve ocean space 6 weeks ahead. Inland trucking and brokerage 2–3 weeks prior.
Q5: What documents are required for customs?
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, emissions certificates, and any phytosanitary clearances.
