Ro-Ro and container quotations for farm machinery should be compared using the transport condition and scope each option actually requires. A dismantled implement and a self-moving machine create different handling tasks. Confirm carrier acceptance, packaging and destination reassembly before selecting the lower headline freight number.
Compare the complete delivered transport scope
Before you approve the quotation: Require manufacturer-approved preparation and a carrier-accepted cargo description. Compare arrival assembly and commissioning alongside freight; the fictional cost example is not a current rate or carrier acceptance promise.
Read the specification as a working system
Have the manufacturer define approved transport preparation, dimensions, mass, support and securing points. Dismantling can change the package count, centre of gravity and work required at arrival. Do not authorise removal of components or transport modifications simply to fit a loading plan without the manufacturer’s procedure and competent personnel.
Ask the freight provider to confirm the actual carrier and terminal conditions for the proposed cargo. Vehicle, battery, fuel, cleanliness and other requirements can vary with the equipment and route, so no universal acceptance is implied here. The CTU Code offers packing context, while carrier acceptance and destination formalities remain separate confirmations. Include assembly, inspection and commissioning responsibilities in the comparison.
The specification comparison
| Decision | Alternative A | Alternative B | Buyer’s evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cargo basis | Machine as sold | Manufacturer-approved transport condition | Preparation instructions and actual dimensions |
| Freight scope | Ocean price only | Handling, packing and relevant local work | Itemised responsibility and cost comparison |
| Acceptance | Shipping method generally available | Actual carrier accepts the specified cargo | Current booking confirmation |
| Arrival work | Machine assumed ready | Required assembly and commissioning allocated | Competent local service plan |
| Evidence | Package photograph | Identified package and securing records | Traceable manifest and loading evidence |
A worked buying example
Illustrative assumptions; not a supplier quotation, an approved design or a machine rating.
Assume container transport is quoted USD 1,200 below a Ro-Ro alternative, but approved dismantling and packaging add USD 650 and required arrival assembly USD 800. On that limited common basis, the container option is USD 250 higher. These are fictional figures and not current freight rates. Further differences in handling, timing, damage exposure and availability still need to be resolved before choosing a method.
From comparison to an executable order
Issue the same transport-prepared equipment description to the freight providers. Require each to identify included work, acceptance conditions and exclusions. Obtain manufacturer and competent assembly input before deciding that dismantling is economical. Keep the packing manifest, preparation records and arrival-work plan with the order so the selected shipping method delivers a complete executable scope rather than an isolated sea-freight saving.
Questions to send with the enquiry
- What manufacturer-approved condition and dimensions will the machine travel in?
- What current carrier and terminal conditions apply to that exact cargo?
- What dismantling, packing and arrival work does each option require?
- Who provides competent assembly, inspection and commissioning after arrival?
Send Auto From China your enquiry, including your destination, operating brief and the answers above. We can work with manufacturers to compare the relevant vehicle or machinery configuration and identify the items that still need written confirmation.
Technical references
- IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units (CTU Code) — IMO explanation of the non-mandatory CTU packing code; carrier and statutory conditions are separate.
- Shipping Options — Shipping planning context from the US International Trade Administration; not China or destination customs advice.