Most buyers focus on the machine price when importing a used excavator from China, then get a shock when they see the shipping quote. Here’s a clear breakdown of what shipping actually costs from Baoding or Shanghai to major destinations in 2026, based on real freight data we’ve seen on recent transactions.
Shipping Methods: RORO vs Container
There are two main ways to ship a used excavator from China: Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) and Container. RORO is cheaper but requires the machine to be self-propelled onto the vessel — it’s the preferred method for large excavators like CAT 320D or Komatsu PC300. Container shipping is more expensive but offers better protection, especially for smaller machines or when you’re shipping parts alongside the main unit.
For a CAT 320D (operating weight about 22 tons), the machine fits into a 40-foot flat rack container or can go RORO. We’ve shipped both ways, and the choice usually comes down to what’s available at the port and whether the destination port can handle RORO vessels.
Estimated Shipping Costs to Major Destinations (2026)
Here are real numbers we’ve seen in recent quotes from our logistics partners:
To Africa (Apapa Port, Nigeria): RORO rate of approximately $3,500 to $5,500 for a CAT 320D, plus port handling fees of $800 to $1,500. Total ocean freight typically runs $4,500 to $7,000 all-in from Baoding to Nigerian port.
To South America (Callao, Peru): RORO rates have increased due to limited vessel capacity. A CAT 320D from Baoding to Callao typically runs $5,000 to $8,000 ocean freight, plus $1,000 to $1,500 in port charges. Total shipping: approximately $6,000 to $10,000 for the ocean leg.
To Southeast Asia (Jakarta, Indonesia): Much shorter route, so significantly cheaper. A CAT 320D from Baoding to Jakarta runs approximately $2,000 to $3,500 via RORO. This is one of the most affordable destinations from China for heavy equipment.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Port handling fees at the destination are commonly underestimated. In West Africa especially, port delays can add $1,000 to $3,000 in demurrage charges if your customs clearance takes longer than expected. We’ve seen customers get caught out by this — always factor in at least 2-3 weeks of buffer time for customs in Nigeria or Ghana.
How long does shipping take from China?
From China to Nigeria takes about 25-35 days, to Peru about 30-40 days, and to Southeast Asia (Indonesia/Malaysia) about 10-15 days. Shipping time depends on the route and port queue at the destination.
What does proper export documentation include?
Our clearance agents handle both export documentation (formal export documents and fumigation certificates) and import clearance (destination port customs declarations). Full proper documentation costs more than informal “bill of lading” arrangements but eliminates the risk of customs seizure — we’ve seen competitors lose shipments this way.