How do I track my excavator shipment?
Tracking your used excavator shipment from China involves monitoring key milestones: booking confirmation, container loading or RoRo departure, bill of lading issuance, and vessel position updates. ExcaYard provides proactive updates via WhatsApp and email, sharing photos, videos, and documents so you always know where your machine is. With typical CIF lead times of 28-45 days port-to-port, you can plan ahead with confidence.
Understanding the Shipment Tracking Process
When you purchase a used excavator from ExcaYard, you gain access to a transparent tracking system. After your order is confirmed and payment is received, we handle the entire export process, including booking, inspection, and documentation. You will receive regular updates at each stage, from pre-shipment inspection to final delivery. Our team uses WhatsApp and email to share real-time information, so you never have to guess where your machine is.
Key Milestones and Documents for Tracking
Tracking is not just about a tracking number; it involves several critical documents and milestones. Here are the essential ones:
- Booking Confirmation: Once your order is placed, we book space with the shipping line and provide you with a booking number.
- Pre-Shipment Inspection Report: Before loading, we conduct a 150-point inspection and share photos and videos. This report includes hours verification and paint-thickness checks.
- Bill of Lading (B/L): This is the most important document for tracking. It contains the vessel name, voyage number, container number, and port of loading/discharge. We issue the B/L after the cargo is loaded.
- Certificate of Origin and Other Export Certifications: Depending on your destination, we handle SONCAP (Nigeria), SABER (Saudi Arabia), PVoC (Kenya/Tanzania/Ghana), GSA (Ghana), and KEBS. These documents are shared with you for customs clearance.
With the B/L details, you can track the vessel's position via the shipping line's website or a third-party tracking service. We also provide updates on any transshipment or delays.
Shipping Methods and Their Tracking Nuances
ExcaYard offers three main shipping methods: RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off), container, and flat-rack. Each has different tracking characteristics:
- RoRo: The excavator is driven onto the vessel. Tracking is based on the vessel's schedule. You will receive the vessel name and voyage number.
- Container: The excavator is loaded into a container. You get a container number for tracking on the shipping line's website.
- Flat-rack: The excavator is secured on a flat-rack platform. Similar to container tracking, you receive a booking number and can track the vessel.
We ship from default ports: Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Tianjin. We can also arrange other ports upon request. For CIF shipments, we handle insurance and freight, and provide you with all necessary tracking details.
Typical Lead Times and What to Expect
Lead time from payment to arrival at your destination port is typically 28-45 days for CIF shipments. This includes booking, loading, and transit. Factors that can affect lead time include:
| Factor | Impact on Lead Time |
|---|---|
| Port congestion | Can add 3-7 days |
| Customs clearance in China | Usually 2-3 days |
| Shipping line schedule | Varies by route; typically weekly sailings |
| Transshipment | May add 5-10 days |
| Destination customs | Varies by country; can be 2-10 days |
We keep you informed of any changes and provide updated ETAs.
How ExcaYard Supports You Throughout the Journey
Our support doesn't end at the port. We assist with documentation and provide guidance on customs clearance. If you need help with certifications such as SONCAP, SABER, PVoC, or GSA, we handle the process and share the certificates with you. For more details on certifications, see our certification documentation guide. We also offer advice on importing used excavators to specific countries, such as the Philippines and Vietnam.
Payment methods include T/T USD wire, L/C through Bank of China, and Wise. We recommend T/T for speed, but L/C provides security for larger transactions. Once payment is confirmed, we proceed with booking and keep you updated.
Frequently asked questions
How can I track my excavator shipment?
You will receive a bill of lading with vessel and container details. Use these to track on the shipping line's website. We also send regular updates via WhatsApp and email.
What documents do I need for tracking and customs clearance?
You need the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin. Additional certifications like SONCAP, SABER, PVoC, or GSA may be required depending on your country.
What is the typical lead time for shipping?
Typically 28-45 days port-to-port for CIF shipments. This can vary based on route, port congestion, and customs clearance.
For personalized tracking assistance, contact us on WhatsApp at +86 193 9277 7259. We are here to help you every step of the way.
