Specialised Logistics for Heavy Industrial Machinery
We import and transport industrial machinery of any size and weight from Europe, Asia and the USA to your plant in Chile with complete permit and documentation management.
Industrial Machinery Logistics: Import and Specialised Transport
The import of industrial machinery is one of the most complex logistics operations in international trade. Unlike standard merchandise that fits in 20 or 40-foot containers, industrial machinery frequently exceeds these dimensions: industrial lathes several metres long, hydraulic presses weighing tens of tonnes, high-voltage electrical transformers, mining equipment or complete production lines require completely different transport solutions.
In Chile, machinery imports are strategic for industry modernisation: manufacturing, mining, agriculture, construction, energy and technology are sectors that depend on imported equipment to maintain and improve their productive capacity. Chile's free trade agreements with Europe (EU), the United States, China and other countries have facilitated access to machinery with reduced or even zero tariffs, but the logistics and customs complexity remains a significant challenge.
The main challenges in importing industrial machinery include: coordination with the manufacturer at origin for proper packaging, selection of the correct transport mode (air for urgent parts, sea in break bulk or flat rack container for large equipment), special circulation permits for oversized loads in Chile, correct disassembly/reassembly for transport, and customs management with correct classification in chapters 84, 85 or 87 of the Customs Tariff.
How FirstCargo serves your sector
Break Bulk and OOG Transport
For machinery that does not fit in standard containers, we coordinate break bulk transport on general cargo vessels, open-top, flat rack and special platforms with certified securing.
Project Cargo Management
For complete industrial projects (installation of a production line, plant expansion), we manage the coordinated transport of all components ensuring they arrive in the correct sequence for assembly.
Oversized Transport in Chile
We coordinate Ministry of Public Works permits for special cargo on national routes, police or private escort as required, and nighttime or specific-day circulation schedules according to regulations.
Specialised Machinery Customs Clearance
Precise tariff classification in chapters 84–87 of the Customs Tariff, correct valuation (FOB, CIF price), FTA application where applicable, and coordination of SNA technical inspections.
Why choose FirstCargo for your sector?
Any Dimension and Weight
From a single spare part to a complete production line. We have solutions for equipment weighing hundreds of tonnes.
Coordination with Manufacturer at Origin
We work directly with the manufacturer to ensure correct packaging, loading supervision and complete technical documentation.
Declared Value Insurance
Insurance policies for high-value machinery covering mechanical damage, corrosion, oxidation and specific risks of industrial equipment transport.
Tariff Temporality Advisory
Guidance on special customs regimes for machinery such as temporary import for construction projects or temporary admission for exhibitions.
Services for this sector
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this is one of our specialised services. A production line may require combined transport: some components in standard containers, large pieces on flat rack or open-top, and critical parts by air. We coordinate with the German manufacturer for loading and technical documentation, and manage all transport to your plant in Chile.
Industrial machinery is generally classified in Chapter 84 (mechanical machines and apparatus) or 85 (electrical material) of Chile's Customs Tariff. The specific classification within these chapters determines the applicable tariff. With the Chile–EU FTA, most European machinery enters with 0% duty. We carry out pre-classification of tariff headings at no cost as part of the quote.
For the transport of cargo with dimensions exceeding legal limits (width > 2.6m, height > 4.2m or length > 20m), you need authorisation from the Ministry of Public Works Highways Directorate, notification to Carabineros for escort on urban sections, and in some cases municipal permits. The process typically takes 5–15 business days depending on the route and conditions.
Need to import industrial machinery to Chile?
Tell us about your equipment and we will present a comprehensive logistics solution: transport, customs and distribution to your plant.
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