Containerised Freight

Backhoe Loader Container Shipping

Two backhoe loaders packed into one 40’ high cube

  • JCB, Volvo, Komatsu & CAT
  • Two units per 40' HC
  • Excavator arms nested

Backhoe Loaders packed by machinery specialists

A backhoe loader has a loader bucket at one end and an excavator arm with bucket at the other. Packing one into a container is child’s play, but making two fit into a 40’ HC requires expertise and knowledge of positioning and load sequence.

All buckets and rear wheels must be removed first. The first loader bucket is positioned at the rear of the container with tyres packed on top, and the first machine is pushed into the container with its loader arm elevated to rest on top of the tyres. The excavator arm is positioned at a 45-degree angle to the machine. Tyres are again used to fill vacant space before the second machine is pushed into the container facing the doors, so the excavator arms nest together. The remaining bucket is packed with tyres and positioned under the loader arms of the second machine before being strapped in place.

Backhoe loaders we pack into 40’ high cubes

Common backhoe loader models we pack, two to a 40’ high cube.

Caterpillar

  • CAT 428D
  • CAT 432E
  • CAT 432F
  • CAT 438D
  • CAT 444F

Volvo

  • Volvo BL61
  • Volvo BL61B
  • Volvo BL71
  • Volvo BL71B

JCB and Komatsu

  • JCB 3CX
  • Komatsu WB97R-2

Model names are given for identification only. Every machine is checked against its exact specification before we confirm the container. Don’t see your model? Send us the details.

How we pack a backhoe loader for shipping

  1. 1

    Assess photos

    By obtaining photos of the actual units, we can understand how many attachments are included and whether the backhoe loader is in operating condition.

  2. 2

    Book labour, equipment and vessel space

    Like a well-organised orchestra, timing the labour for the dismantling work with the container delivery is paramount. Get it wrong and extra costs are incurred. Our team is well versed in the advance planning needed to complete these project packs.

  3. 3

    Dismantle buckets

    Before the container is delivered, we complete any dismantling required so the container can be packed efficiently. Seized pins can be problematic, so identifying any issues in advance is paramount for adapting schedules and solving problems.

  4. 4

    Tetris Pro

    Getting two complete backhoe loaders into a container is challenging, and akin to playing Tetris with blocks of all sizes and weights. We get them in, balanced, strapped and ready for shipment.

  5. 5

    Verified Gross Mass

    Containers are weighed to verify their mass and comply with local transport rules as well as maritime regulations.

  6. 6

    Document and seal

    The finished pack is photographed and the lashing recorded before the container is sealed or the flat rack is signed off for the terminal.

Backhoe loader packing photos

Real backhoe loaders packed by our team, from preparation through to lashing and sealing.

Two JCB 3CX backhoe loaders packed in a 40ft high cube
Two JCB 3CX excavator booms interlocked in a 40ft high cube
JCB 3CX loader frame raised in a 40ft high cube
Volvo BL71 backhoe loader in a 40ft high cube

Backhoe loader shipping FAQs

Can a backhoe loader fit in a container?

Yes, absolutely. We haven’t found a model we can’t pack yet!

Why not leave the backhoe resting on hydraulics?

Hydraulic pressure bleeds off over a long voyage, and anything held up by hydraulics will settle and loosen the lashing. Everything is mechanically locked or lowered onto timber before lashing.

Can attachments ship with the machine?

Yes. Buckets, forks, breakers and hitches are secured in the same container where weight allows, so the machine arrives ready to work.

Do you handle used backhoes for import or export?

Yes. Used machines need to be clean to meet biosecurity rules at the destination. We coordinate cleaning in Australia or overseas as part of the shipment if required by the importing country.

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