International Shipping Guide

Crane Shipping & Transport

Shipping a tower crane internationally needs careful planning. Discover how Powerhouse International covers expert preparation, disassembly, packaging, documentation, shipping methods, and compliance with regulations for a smooth delivery.

GET IN TOUCH

Our clients stay with us for an average of 12 years and several have been with us for over 30 years

We aim to respond to all general domestic and international quote requests within one hour.

For shipments arriving in Australia, we can arrange for our staff to be present at the arrival port or airport to ensure any potential issues are resolved swiftly

Our Client Testimonials

We’re proud to build long-lasting relationships

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 74 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Maria Blaine 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outstanding Customer Service in every way possible.
After 2 days of calling around multiple import Brokers in Brisbane, all whom declined to help me with a personal import Powerhouse International came to my rescue.
All the women in this Team are Professional, Patient, Postive and know exactly how International importing into Brisbane works. If you are a first time importer like I was with only google knowledge I highly recommend Powerhouse International. This Team IS the A Team and will broker you much better cargo deals than if you just the sellers in China deal with cargo boat owner (I learnt the hard way).
Powerhouse International Team took out the stress of a highly stressful situation 1st timer situation I was in. I'll only ever go through them from now on.

Even trying to arrange pickup from Port of Brisbane this Team of Amazing Women at Powerhouse International came to my rescue when the people I had organised cancelled on me an hr b4 hand. They arranged everything and are worth every penny. They just take the stress out of Importing. Wish I could Hug them all.

Thank you ever so much for your Kindness, Understanding and Patience with me, my questions and my panicking as a Newbie totally inexperienced  Importer Ladies. You are all Angels.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lola Boyle 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently contacted Powerhouse QLD to assist me with advice on Consolidations from China. Adele took the time to discuss the process and document, reporting & cost implications with me.
A simple phone call saved me time and money, that as a start up I don't have alot of. I now feel confident when talking to suppliers and know what questions to ask and have learnt a little bit of the freight language along the way.. Thank you Powerhouse Team. I'll be back in touch very soon !! *****
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   aleeyah b 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been using Brisbane Powerhouse Queensland International Freight Forwarders for years, and I can honestly say they feel more like family than a business. The team is incredibly kind, caring, and always willing to help no matter the situation.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jessica Simpson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I honestly cannot recommend Brisbane Powerhouse Queensland International Freight Forwarders enough. Their customer service is outstanding, their prices are extremely competitive, and every interaction I’ve had with the team has been professional, helpful, and genuinely compassionate.

They go above and beyond to assist their customers, taking the time to answer questions, provide updates, and make the entire freight process stress-free. It’s rare to find a company that combines affordability with such a high level of care and attention to detail.

Reading some of the negative reviews, it honestly seems unfair because my experience has been the complete opposite. The staff have always treated me with kindness, respect, and patience, even when I needed extra assistance.

If you’re looking for a freight forwarding company that offers excellent value, reliable service, and a team that truly cares about its customers, Brisbane Powerhouse Queensland International Freight Forwarders is the company to work with. I will definitely continue using their services and recommending them to others.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Walker 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. FIVE STARS!  My business recently needed the help of an Aussie-based freight-forwarder for a 20 kilogram job from overseas into Australia.  First I reached out to a major global brand, lots of shuffling meant they took 2 week to decide they weren’t interested in handling a shipment as small as mine.  Thankfully, the Rep referred to Adele at Powerhouse International near Brisbane Airport - and the difference was immediate. Adele responded within moments, had a can-do approach and got straight to work.  When the dispatch stalled due to supplier inaction, and then delivery stalled midway due to complicated carrier processes, Adele handled it with experience and authority and persistence.  I’m extremely grateful for Adele's professionalism and dedication. For anyone needing reliable freight forwarding, I am pleased to completely recommend Adele and Powerhouse International - and I would gladly call on their services again.  Thank-you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Scott 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The team did a fantastic job clearing goods through customs in the fastest possible time.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Harmony Barnes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The service at Powerhouse is second to none. As a small business owner, I always feel valued , my queries, no matter how basic, are answered with genuine care and professionalism. The team’s wealth of knowledge, guided by strong leadership, truly stands out. Always happy to help, they consistently go above and beyond to get the job done. I highly recommend the. If you want to work with real people who care deeply and are passionate about what they do.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Leanne Part 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service and easy to contact. Cannot recommend highly enough.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Stephanie Part 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been using Powerhouse to handle all our international shipping and they have been fantastic. Adele and all her crew are maxing.
  
 
  
  
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Powerhouse International specialises in transporting tower cranes to and from Australia.

Our expert team handles every detail, from disassembly to shipping preparation, ensuring your crane arrives safely at its destination.

Our comprehensive services also include handling the necessary documentation and utmost adherence to international regulations.

Trust Powerhouse International, a leading freight forwarder and customs broker in Brisbane, for reliable, efficient, and compliant tower crane shipping services, guaranteeing smooth and timely delivery every single time.

What Is A Tower Crane?

A tower crane is an essential piece of equipment in the construction industry, designed to lift and move heavy materials to considerable heights. These cranes are typically used for constructing tall buildings and large structures.

On average, tower crane height are 50 to 200m in total length.

Types of Tower Cranes

There are several types of tower cranes used in construction, each designed for specific tasks and environments.

Hammerhead Cranes:
- Most common type
- Features a horizontal jib that rotates around a central mast

Luffing Jib Cranes:
- Movable jib that can be raised or lowered
- Ideal for sites with limited space

Self-Erecting Cranes:
- Smaller and can be assembled quickly
- Perfect for short-term projects or smaller construction sites

Flat-Top Cranes:
- Lacks the traditional tower head
- Easier to transport and assemble in tight spaces

How Are Cranes Transported: Preparing for Shipment

First, the crane must be disassembled into its main components, including the base, mast, jib, and counterweights. Each part should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or debris.

It's crucial to secure all moving parts and pack them in durable, weather-resistant materials to prevent damage during transit. Proper labelling of each component ensures easy reassembly at the destination.

Assessing Transport Requirements

Begin by evaluating the crane's dimensions and weight to determine the most suitable transport method, usually this will be by sea. Consider the route's logistics, including any height or weight restrictions on bridges and roads.

It’s essential to coordinate with local authorities to obtain necessary permits and ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, assess the need for specialised equipment, such as flatbed trucks or heavy-lift vessels, to handle the crane's components. Properly securing each part with robust strapping and padding is vital to prevent damage during transit. Thorough planning and attention to detail will ensure the crane arrives safely and ready for reassembly.

When it comes to heavy machinery shipping, Powerhouse International is the leading choice for a seamless and cost-effective process.

Our Australian import tax calculator can help you understand your import duty. Contact us for a detailed quote.

Tower Crane Components

Part	Weight	Special Requirements
Base	>10,000kg	Heavy-duty flatbed truck, reinforced securing
Mast Sections	1,500kg	Modular packing, secure strapping
Jib	2,500kg	Wide-load conveyance, balanced loading
Counterweights	5,000kg	Robust crating, weight distribution
Slewing Unit	3,000kg	Shock-proof crating, secure fastening
Operator's Cab	800kg	Weather-resistant wrapping, careful handling

Contact one of our Logistics Experts

We coordinate and control every step in your supply chain. Utilise our expertise to grow your business.

GET IN TOUCH

What We've Been Able to Achieve

Case Studies

Complex Cargo

Coordinating all the international transport to a very remote location

The Challenge:

One of our clients had secured the contract to supply an immense Batching plant to the Kittila Gold mine located in Lapland (northern Finland). This region is very remote and situated close to the Arctic circle. As such there was only a very narrow window of 10 weeks when all the cargo could be delivered to site during the northern summer.

The componentry required had to be sourced from a number of locations throughout Asia and Europe and collectively there was over 4000m3.

See our solution

Complex Cargo

Transporting a large oversize piece of cargo that required from/to the water and barge delivery to site

The Challenge:

This consignee contacted Powerhouse to request our assistance for arranging all the technical shipping and Customs/Quarantine requirements involved to transport their pontoons from the factory in China to installation at the new City cat terminals on the Brisbane river.

With each pontoon measuring approximately 22.6ml x 9.05mw x 2.15 mh x 52 tonnes the shipping options were limited. In addition, as the goods had to be discharged to water (due to their size) and cleared through Customs and Quarantine, a specific import process had to be created.

See our solution

Complex Cargo

Requiring A Blend Of Services

The Challenge:

We were contacted by a client who made preparations to row a boat all the way from the USA to Australia. Their concern was that there was a very narrow weather window on when the row could be commenced and they could not afford the goods to be damaged in transit.

See our solution

Complex Cargo

Transporting A Commercial Aircraft by land and sea

The Challenge:

The Qantas Museum in Longreach purchased a large commercial aircraft (Lockheed Super Constellation) from the Philippines which had been residing in a grass paddock (beside the main airport runway) since 1986. This model of aircraft had been used extensively by Qantas on their long haul international flights and would be a vital component of the Qantas story at the museum. They contacted us initially as the plane was in no condition to fly and they required a specialist project logistics company to help them arrange the extraction, dismantling and transport to Australia.

See our solution

Complex Cargo

Transporting Inaccessible oversize Cargo

The Challenge:

The owner of a large Combined Harvester had successfully sold their machine to a sugar cane plantation in Fiji. Once this transaction had been completed they contacted a number of international forwarding specialists to get a quote on arranging all the transport requirements. Unfortunately, due to the challenges involved, they were unable to find anyone who was interested in assisting.

They contacted Powerhouse Queensland after a referral from one of the project carriers in our network. We began the process with an onsite meeting to view the goods and assess all possible transportation options. The first challenge was that the machine itself had been positioned at the rear of a large residential block for some years and due to property changes in the area had become inaccessible.

See our solution

Sea Freight

Strategizing For A Restricted Budget

The Challenge:

A cruise company in Airlie beach purchased 2 landing barges from Thailand which they planned to use for transporting tourists to remote coral cays and islands in the Whitsundays.
The transport costs they had received from other logistic companies exceeded their budget and they contacted Powerhouse Queensland to see if we could provide a more cost effective solution.

See our solution

Sea Freight for Tower Cranes

How do cranes get transported across borders? The best international option is generally by sea

Sea Transport: Using specialised cargo ships, sea transport is ideal for heavy and oversized components. The crane parts are securely packed in weather-resistant materials and loaded onto the ship using cranes or heavy-duty forklifts. This method is cost-effective and suitable for long-distance shipments.

Insurance and Protection

When shipping tower cranes internationally, insurance and protection are paramount. The sheer size and complexity of these structures make them susceptible to damage during transit. Comprehensive insurance ensures that any potential losses or damages are covered, safeguarding your investment. Additionally, robust protection measures, such as secure packaging, weather-resistant materials, and reinforced crating, are essential to prevent physical damage. Properly labelled and documented parts further ensure smooth customs clearance and reassembly.

By prioritising insurance and protection, you mitigate risks, ensuring your tower crane arrives intact and operational, ready for immediate use on the construction site. This proactive approach ultimately saves time, money, and resources.

Handling Documentation and Ensuring Compliance

How are tower cranes transported seamlessly? Expert handling of documentation and ensuring compliance is absolutely crucial.

1. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licences:

Secure export declarations from the relevant authorities
Acquire import permits for the destination country
Obtain transit documentation for countries en route

2. Prepare and Verify Shipping Documents:

Create a detailed bill of lading
Compile a comprehensive packing list
Generate a commercial invoice with accurate descriptions and values

3. Ensure Compliance with Customs Regulations:

Gather certificates of origin
Arrange for any required inspection certificates

4. Adhere to International Shipping Standards:

Ensure compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, if applicable

5. Coordinate with Logistics Partners:

Work closely with freight forwarders to plan the route and schedule
Collaborate with customs brokers to facilitate smooth customs clearance

6. Monitor and Document the Entire Process:

Keep detailed records of all documentation and communications
Monitor the shipment to ensure it adheres to all legal and logistical requirements

Choosing the Right Carrier

How are tower cranes transported in the most efficient way possible? With Powerhouse International behind you, of course.

When it comes to international tower crane shipping, Powerhouse International stands out as the most reliable choice. With years of expertise and a commitment to excellence, we ensure your crane is transported safely and efficiently.

Our comprehensive services cover everything from meticulous planning and secure packaging to obtaining necessary permits and ensuring compliance with international regulations.

Trust Powerhouse International to handle your tower crane shipping needs with the utmost professionalism and care. Contact us today to learn how we can streamline your shipping process and provide you with peace of mind, knowing your valuable equipment is in the best hands.

Why Choose Us?

The Powerhouse Difference

Streamline delivery to your destination with a fully integrated logistics service

At Powerhouse International, we stand at the forefront of freight forwarding services across the globe, with our expertise and dedication shining through in every aspect of our work.

Allow our seasoned professionals to tailor the most economical and efficient transport strategies for your goods.

Get in touch today

info@powerhouseqld.com.au

(+61) 7 3868 2468

Unit 5/50 French St, Eagle Farm 4009 Brisbane, Australia

(opens in a new tab)