Project Cargo Export Guide India

When This Applies

Project cargo refers to oversized, heavy, or complex shipments that cannot be transported in standard containers. This includes machinery, turbines, generators, transformers, and industrial equipment. Project cargo requires special handling, route surveys, and permits.

Documents Needed

• Technical drawings and dimensions
• Weight certificates
• Lifting and lashing plans
• Route survey reports
• Oversize/overweight permits for road transport
• Commercial Invoice and Packing List
• IEC and GSTIN
• Insurance policy with project cargo coverage

Common Mistakes

• Not conducting a route survey — low bridges, narrow roads, or weight limits can block transport
• Inadequate lashing and securing — heavy cargo can shift and damage vessels or vehicles
• Missing port handling agreements — not all ports can handle heavy lift cargo
• Incorrect centre of gravity calculations — affects lifting safety and stability
• Not budgeting for extended timelines — project cargo moves slower than standard freight

Estimated Timeline and Process

Planning (2–4 weeks): Route survey, permit applications, vessel chartering if needed.

Origin handling (1–3 days): Heavy lift loading onto special equipment.

Transit (variable): Road, rail, or sea depending on cargo size and destination.

Destination (1–3 days): Heavy lift unloading and placement.

How Sea Air Cargo Systems Can Help

We have extensive experience in project cargo logistics across India. Our team conducts route surveys, arranges heavy lift vessels and trailers, and manages permits and escorts. Learn more about our project cargo service.

Pre-Export Planning for Project Cargo

• Conduct a route survey to identify road weight limits, bridge clearances, and port crane capacity
• Obtain necessary permits for oversized transport (RTO, police, and port permits)
• Confirm the vessel has suitable heavy-lift gear or arrange a floating crane
• Book vessel space early — heavy-lift slots are limited and fill months ahead
• Prepare lashing and securing plans approved by a marine surveyor

Documents for Project Cargo Exports

• Commercial Invoice and Packing List with detailed dimensions and weight
• Route survey report
• Heavy-lift vessel stowage plan
• Lashing and securing certificate
• Export licence (if the item is on the SCOMET list)
• Insurance certificate with project-specific coverage

Cost Factors to Plan For

Project cargo costs include route survey (₹50,000–₹2,00,000), special transport permits, escort vehicles, port heavy-lift charges, vessel charter or heavy-lift slot premiums, and marine insurance. Total costs can be 3–5× standard freight. Use our Freight Cost Estimator for preliminary budgeting.

Common Mistakes

• Not checking port crane capacity — some ports cannot handle cargoes above 50 tonnes
• Late vessel booking — heavy-lift vessels have limited availability
• Inadequate lashing — cargo shifting at sea causes damage and insurance disputes
• Missing SCOMET clearance — dual-use and strategic goods need DGFT approval

When to Contact a CHA

Project cargo requires specialist CHAs with heavy-lift experience. Sea Air Cargo Systems has managed transformers, boilers, and industrial machinery exports. Contact us for project cargo planning.

Pro tip: For cargoes above 50 tonnes, engage a marine surveyor to certify the lashing plan before vessel loading. Most insurers require this certificate for coverage activation.

Frequently Asked Questions