Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala: Complete Guide

Shipping heavy machinery from the USA to Guatemala is efficient when handled by a trusted international logistics provider. Whether transporting construction equipment, mining machinery, agricultural machines, or industrial units, proper preparation and documentation ensure smooth delivery.

This guide explains everything you need to know when you ship heavy machinery to Guatemala—including shipping methods, costs, destination ports, customs rules, and transit times.


1. Types of Heavy Machinery Commonly Shipped

Machinery frequently shipped to Guatemala includes:

  • Excavators & backhoes

  • Bulldozers & wheel loaders

  • Cranes & graders

  • Tractors & farm equipment

  • Mining and drilling machinery

  • Forklifts & industrial machines


2. Shipping Methods to Guatemala

a. Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo)

Best for self-propelled machinery.

Benefits:

  • Cost-effective

  • Fast loading and unloading

  • Ideal for running equipment

Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala

Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala


b. Container Shipping (20ft / 40ft)

Perfect for smaller or high-value machinery.

Benefits:

  • Full weather protection

  • Added security

  • Can include accessories and spare parts


c. Flat Rack Shipping

Ideal for oversized or unusually shaped machinery.

Benefits:

  • Flexible dimensions

  • Strong securing system

  • Great for bulky or heavy loads


3. Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala Costs

Costs depend on:

  • Machinery size and weight

  • RoRo, container, or flat rack

  • U.S. departure port

  • Insurance & handling fees

Typical price range:
$2,000 – $6,000+, depending on size and shipping method.


4. Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala Shipping Time from the USA 

Estimated transit times:

  • East Coast USA → Puerto Barrios or Santo Tomás de Castilla: 7–15 days

  • Gulf Coast USA → Puerto Barrios or Santo Tomás de Castilla: 10–18 days

Total timeline including booking + customs: 2–4 weeks


5. Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala U.S. Departure Ports

Top U.S. ports for shipping machinery to Guatemala:

  • Newark, NJ

  • Baltimore, MD

  • Savannah, GA

  • Houston, TX

  • Jacksonville, FL

  • Miami, FL

📲 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 Guatemala

  • Puerto Barrios – Major port for heavy machinery imports on the Caribbean coast.

  • Santo Tomás de Castilla – Handles large shipments and inland transport to Guatemala City and surrounding regions.


7. Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala Required Export & Import Documents

Export Documents (USA):

  • Bill of Lading

  • Commercial invoice or ownership proof

  • Passport or ID copy

  • Power of Attorney (if using an agent)

  • Export declaration


Import Documents (Guatemala):

  • Bill of Lading

  • Commercial invoice

  • Passport or ID

  • Guatemala Customs declaration

  • Insurance documents

Complete documentation ensures smooth customs clearance and avoids delays.


8. Preparing Heavy Machinery for Shipping

Key preparation steps:

  • Clean machinery thoroughly

  • Secure or remove detachable parts

  • Lock attachments and moving components

  • Reduce fuel levels

  • Disconnect batteries if required

  • Photograph condition before shipping

  • Ensure proper access for loading


9. Ship Heavy Machinery to Guatemala Customs Duties & Taxes 

Common fees include:

  • Import duty (varies by machinery type)

  • VAT / IVA

  • Port handling charges

  • Environmental and inspection fees

Accurate paperwork helps prevent delays and extra charges.


10. Why Choose All Transport Depot?

We provide:

  • RoRo, container & flat rack shipping

  • Nationwide U.S. machinery pickup

  • Full export paperwork support

  • Safe and secure equipment handling

  • Transparent pricing

  • Real-time tracking

Your machinery is transported professionally from the USA to Guatemala.


Final Thoughts

Shipping machinery to Guatemala is fast and reliable with the right logistics partner. All Transport Depot ensures smooth delivery from U.S. pickup to customs clearance at Puerto Barrios or Santo Tomás de Castilla.

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