What is Machinery and Why It Matters in Shipping
Machinery refers to either a single machine or the collective parts that make up a machine. From packaging boxes and bottles to harvesting crops on farms, machinery plays a vital role in manufacturing and agriculture. It helps businesses operate more efficiently and safely.
As technology evolves, older machines are replaced with newer, more advanced models. These older units often enter the used machinery market, where buyers must consider shipping logistics and costs.
For smaller shipments, consider our cost-effective LTL shipping solutions.
Why Shipping Machinery Can Be Confusing
Shipping machinery isn’t as straightforward as shipping standard goods. That’s because machinery is classified as a density-based item, meaning its shipping cost depends on its weight and volume, not just its type.
What Is Freight Density and Why It Matters
Freight density is a key factor in determining the freight class, which directly affects your shipping cost. Machinery doesn’t fall into one of the standard 18 freight classes—it’s rated based on density.
How to Calculate Freight Density for Machinery
To calculate density:
- Multiply Length × Width × Height (in inches).
- Divide the result by 1728 to get cubic feet.
- Divide the weight (in pounds) by the cubic feet to get density.
Example: Calculating Density for a Machine
Let’s say your machine is:
- Dimensions: 48″ × 40″ × 50″
- Weight: 1100 lbs
Step 1:
48 × 40 × 50 = 96,000 cubic inches
96,000 ÷ 1728 = 55.55 cubic feet
Step 2:
1100 ÷ 55.55 = 19.80 lbs per cubic foot
Freight Class: Crate vs Pallet
- Palletized machinery with this density falls under Freight Class 70
- Crated machinery falls under Freight Class 60
Crating not only lowers your freight class (and cost), but also protects your equipment during transit.
How to Save Money When Shipping Machinery
✅ Crate your machinery to reduce freight class and improve safety
✅ Accurately calculate density to avoid reclassification fees
✅ Work with experienced freight brokers who understand machinery logistics
Whether you need truckload shipping for manufacturers or LTL freight services for heavy equipment, choosing the right method can save you money.
