5 mistakes to avoid when shipping project cargo

What is project cargo?

In order to grasp the challenges of project cargo shipping, we must first understand what makes it particularly complex. Project cargo is the shipment of heavy, large, or out-of-gauge pieces of equipment, machinery, and their components. These items are often high-value or irreplaceable, transported for use in industrial and infrastructure projects. Due to its unique nature, project cargo requires special and often custom solutions to accommodate the shipments.

The stakes are very high when it comes to project cargo, so avoiding the following mistakes will be in the best interest of both the freight transport company and the customers.

1. Lack of planning and preparation

Insufficient preparation is a critical mistake when shipping project cargo. Each shipment is unique, and it often requires detailed planning and timely arrangements. The cargo handling team may have to study photos of the items to decide on the safest and most efficient way to ship them. Any oversights may result in delays and complications.

Therefore, please allow plenty of time to ensure all arrangements are in place, such as scheduling, securing any necessary permits, or making any other required preparations.

2. Providing incorrect information

Providing accurate information is paramount in the logistics of project cargo shipping. Wrongly specified dimensions and weight, or otherwise inaccurate details, can lead to logistical challenges, including the selection of inappropriate transport and handling methods.

Inaccuracies may jeopardize the timeline and budget of the project but also increase the risk of damage to the cargo and to the vessel. Shippers are encouraged to double-check and confirm all cargo specifications, as well as communicate them clearly and accurately to all parties involved for seamless transit operations.

3. Technical drawings and instructions

Overlooking the importance of supplying technical drawings and handling instructions for project cargo can also lead to severe consequences. These documents are crucial for the safe handling, loading, and unloading of unique project cargo. They provide detailed information on the shipment’s specifications and handling requirements, such as the center of gravity or the correct lift points, for example.

Ensure the provision of essential technical drawings and handling instructions to facilitate smooth handling and avoid the risk of damage, mishandling, or unwanted delays during transit.

4. Ignoring weight limitations

Underestimating the significance of weight limitations is a mistake that can really complicate ocean freight logistics. These limitations are critical factors in planning and executing correct shipping strategies for your project cargo. Ignoring them can lead to the inability to secure appropriate vessel space, which will, therefore, affect project timeline and budget.

Customers must consider these constraints in the early planning stages, working closely with their selected carrier to identify the most suitable shipping methods and avoid potential hurdles. Out of gauge cargo may need innovative or custom handling solutions which, again, will take additional time and strategizing.

5. Overlooking carrier vetting

Finally, a thorough vetting of carriers is always recommended when shipping project cargo. Entrusting your high-value freight to unreliable parties could result in numerous complications, from legal issues and delays to mishandling and damages.
Although no one can 100% guarantee that unforeseen issues will not arise, an experienced and reliable carrier will implement all the necessary measures to transport your assets as safely as possible. In the unlikely event of damages, a reputable company is also more likely to handle the case in a professional manner. Therefore, carrier vetting is a vital step in the overall success of the shipping process.

Looking for a reliable project cargo shipping company?

Höegh Autoliners is leading the industry with its extensive experience in shipping project and breakbulk cargo. We have a range of specialized equipment and a highly experienced cargo handling team, ready to meet any challenges.

Fill in your project cargo details here, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!