When it comes to heavy equipment shipping, every detail matters—from vessel availability and lifting gear to route optimization and final delivery coordination. In this case study, discover how AllwayForward, a trusted provider of door-to-door international freight, helped a major Chinese manufacturer successfully ship over 50 tons of oversized cargo—just in time for the holidays.
Despite the time pressure and limited heavy-lift vessel availability, AllwayForward’s expert team developed a tailored breakbulk shipping solution that not only met the deadline but also cut transit time and costs, allowing the client to double their shipment volume.
The Challenge: Oversized Machinery + Tight Holiday Deadline
The client, a global mining equipment manufacturer, needed to export a batch of heavy-duty machinery, with single units exceeding 50 tons. Their priority was clear: deliver the shipment before the holiday shutdown.
But with peak-season congestion and limited heavy lift ocean carriers available, the stakes were high:
Oversized cargo logistics require precise coordination and route planning
Time-sensitive international shipping during the holidays increases risk
Existing onboard cranes didn’t meet the cargo’s lifting requirements
Freight rate fluctuations could lead to unexpected cost spikes
AllwayForward’s Breakbulk Shipping Solution
Fast Booking of a German Heavy Lift Vessel
Using its global network of carriers, AllwayForward quickly secured a spot on a German heavy-lift vessel, tailored for out-of-gauge cargo shipping. The swift reservation allowed the project to kick off without delay, despite tight vessel capacity.
Route Optimization: Faster Delivery, Lower Cost
Upon review, the AllwayForward operations team identified an alternative discharge port in Australia—one closer to the final delivery site. This rarely used route, typically overlooked by less experienced forwarders, provided real advantages:
Arrival at destination port 3 days earlier
Final door-to-door delivery time shortened by approx. 5 days
Significant savings on local transport and warehousing
This route optimization for heavy equipment cut both transit time and landed cost, exceeding the client’s expectations.
Custom Lifting Solution for Oversized Equipment
The vessel’s standard crane setup was not compatible with the dimensions and weight distribution of the cargo. Compounding the issue, the client’s lifting gear couldn’t be used on board.
Instead of compromising safety or delaying the project, AllwayForward partnered with the carrier’s technical team to:
Redesign the lifting method and create a custom lifting plan for breakbulk cargo
Modify onboard equipment to ensure secure hoisting and stability
Guarantee compliance with international maritime safety standards
Cost-Saving Through Expert Freight Contract Management
In breakbulk freight, small line items can quickly inflate total costs—especially with oversized, heavy cargo. AllwayForward’s logistics specialists reviewed the contract line-by-line and made the following improvements:
Eliminated unnecessary port fees and stand-by charges
Reduced risk of demurrage through proactive scheduling
Secured capacity during the peak shipping season without rush premiums
Results That Speak for Themselves
By choosing AllwayForward’s specialized project cargo services, the client achieved:
2X shipment volume within the original timeline
Reduction in total logistics costs
Faster delivery to end destination
Zero damage or delay, despite equipment complexity
This project is a testament to how data-driven logistics planning, smart contract negotiation, and custom-engineered solutions can turn a high-risk operation into a seamless success.
Why Choose AllwayForward for Your Next Heavy Equipment Shipment?
Whether you’re shipping mining machinery, industrial infrastructure, or oversized equipment for construction or energy, AllwayForward provides:
Breakbulk logistics expertise
Heavy lift vessel booking & route optimization
End-to-end project cargo coordination
Door-to-door international freight services
Transparent pricing and cost control
We go beyond moving cargo—we deliver confidence, performance, and value.
Looking for a partner who understands the complexities of global heavy equipment logistics?
Contact AllwayForward today for customized, efficient shipping solutions that move your business forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is breakbulk shipping and when should I use it?
A: Breakbulk shipping is the transportation of cargo that doesn’t fit into standard containers due to size or weight—ideal for machinery, vehicles, or industrial modules.
Q: How do I reduce costs in heavy equipment logistics?
A: Work with a freight forwarder that specializes in oversized cargo, negotiates fair contracts, and provides access to alternative routes and heavy lift vessels—like AllwayForward.
