Ship Heavy Machinery to France: Complete Guide

Shipping heavy machinery from the USA to France requires careful planning, proper documentation, and reliable logistics. Whether you are sending construction, agricultural, or industrial equipment, understanding the process ensures safe, timely delivery.

This guide explains everything you need to know when you ship heavy machinery to France, including costs, shipping methods, ports, and customs requirements.

1. Heavy Machinery Commonly Shipped

Equipment frequently shipped to France includes:

  • Excavators

  • Bulldozers

  • Cranes

  • Forklifts

  • Backhoe loaders

  • Wheel loaders

  • Road graders and rollers

  • Agricultural machinery

  • Mining machinery

  • Industrial generators

Any oversized or heavy machinery can be shipped safely with the right logistics partner.

2. Shipping Methods to France

a. Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo)

Best for running machinery that can roll or be driven onto the vessel.

Benefits:

  • Affordable

  • Quick loading/unloading

  • Secure lower decks

Ship heavy machinery to France

Ship heavy machinery to France

b. Flat Rack Shipping

Ideal for oversized or non-running machinery.

Benefits:

  • Handles large and irregular equipment

  • Heavy-duty chains and straps secure cargo

  • Suitable for construction and industrial machines

c. Container Shipping (20ft/40ft)

Used for smaller machinery or partially disassembled equipment.

Benefits:

  • Fully enclosed for protection

  • Secure for high-value machines

  • Can include parts or tools

d. Breakbulk Shipping

For extremely heavy or oversized machinery.

Benefits:

  • No size limitations

  • Crane-loaded directly onto vessel

  • Perfect for industrial machinery and equipment

3. Ship heavy machinery to France Shipping Costs 

Costs depend on:

  • Machinery size and weight

  • Shipping method

  • U.S. port of departure

  • France port handling fees

  • Loading and crane fees

  • Marine insurance

Typical price range: $3,500 – $18,000+, depending on equipment and shipping method.

4. Ship heavy machinery to France Shipping Time from the USA 

  • East Coast USA → France: 18–32 days

  • Gulf Coast USA → France: 20–35 days

  • West Coast USA → France: 30–45 days

Total process including booking and customs: 4–7 weeks

5. Ship heavy machinery to France U.S. Departure Ports

Common U.S. ports for shipping heavy machinery to France:

  • Newark, NJ

  • Baltimore, MD

  • Jacksonville, FL

  • Savannah, GA

  • Houston, TX

  • Los Angeles, CA

  • Long Beach, CA

These ports support RoRo, container, flat rack, and breakbulk shipping.

📲 Message us or call today:
📧 ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Office: +1 (678) 528-5794
🌐 www.alltransportdepot.com

6. Arrival Ports in France

Major receiving ports include:

  • Port of Le Havre – Northern France, main import hub

  • Port of Marseille – Southern France, suitable for Mediterranean delivery

  • Port of Dunkirk – Northern port with industrial cargo services

All ports handle RoRo, containers, and heavy-lift machinery.

7. Ship heavy machinery to France Required Export & Import Documents

Export Documents (USA):

  • Commercial Invoice / Bill of Sale

  • Power of Attorney

  • Export declaration

  • Machinery specifications (dimensions, weight, model)

  • Packing list (if partially disassembled)

  • EPA compliance documents (if applicable)

Import Documents (France):

  • Bill of Lading

  • Import declaration

  • Proof of ownership

  • Invoice

  • Customs clearance forms

  • Inspection certificates (if required)

8. Preparing Machinery for Shipping

Ensure equipment is ready for transport:

  • Clean machinery

  • Lower fuel levels if required

  • Remove or secure loose parts

  • Provide accurate dimensions and weight

  • Disconnect batteries if necessary

  • Take photos for condition records

  • Lock cabins, covers, and controls

Proper preparation reduces risk and prevents delays.

9. Ship heavy machinery to France Customs Duties & Taxes 

France applies:

  • Import duties based on machinery type

  • VAT (standard EU rate 20%)

  • Port handling and inspection fees

  • Environmental or emissions compliance fees

A customs broker can provide exact calculations before shipment.

10. Why Choose All Transport Depot?

All Transport Depot offers:

  • Expertise in heavy machinery shipping

  • RoRo, container, flat rack, and breakbulk options

  • Full documentation and customs assistance

  • Nationwide U.S. pickup

  • Transparent pricing and real-time tracking

  • Professional handling from pickup to delivery

We ensure your machinery arrives safely and efficiently in France.

Final Thoughts

Shipping heavy machinery to France from the USA is simple with the right logistics partner. All Transport Depot ensures safe transport, proper documentation, smooth customs clearance, and timely delivery.

📲 Message us or call today:
📧 ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Office: +1 (678) 528-5794
🌐 www.alltransportdepot.com

Mindy o