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Dimensions vs. Container Limits
The Caterpillar CS78B vibratory soil compactor is a formidable machine, weighing approximately 18.7 tons and measuring 6.13 meters in length, 2.46 meters in width, and 3.13 meters in height. In contrast, a standard 40-foot high cube (40HQ) container offers internal dimensions of roughly 12.03 meters long, 2.35 meters wide, and 2.70 meters high.
At first glance, the CS78B’s width of 2.46 meters (97 inches) exceeds the container’s internal width of 2.35 meters (93 inches), making it too wide to fit without modification. Even if the length and height are within acceptable limits, the width presents a critical challenge.
Creative Dismantling and Alternatives
Some operators have explored removing side plates or reconfiguring components to reduce the width to around 84 inches, which would allow the roller to fit snugly inside the container. Others suggest removing the drum and rotating the yoke vertically to minimize the footprint. However, such modifications require skilled labor, time, and may void warranties or compromise structural integrity.
An alternative is flat rack shipping, which accommodates oversized loads without the constraints of container walls. While more expensive, it avoids the risks of dismantling and reassembly. As one user put it, “Price is crazy now, boss,” reflecting the global surge in freight costs post-pandemic.
Shipping Realities in a Post-COVID World
The cost of international shipping has fluctuated wildly since 2020. According to the Drewry World Container Index, rates for a 40-foot container from Shanghai to Los Angeles peaked at over $10,000 in 2021, compared to $1,500 pre-pandemic. This volatility has pushed buyers to seek cost-saving alternatives, including containerizing heavy equipment.
In 2023, a construction firm in Kenya successfully shipped a modified CS78B by removing the ROPS cab and drum, reducing the height and width enough to fit into a 40HQ. The reassembly took two days, but the savings were substantial—nearly $4,000 compared to RORO (roll-on/roll-off) shipping.
Manufacturer Insights and Transport Tips
Caterpillar’s official specalog for the CS78B emphasizes its dual-pump propel system, Eco-mode, and compaction control technologies, but it does not provide containerization guidelines. For accurate transport planning, third-party platforms like offer detailed dimensions and weight data.
Key transport tips include:
While the CS78B cannot fit into a 40HQ container in its standard configuration, strategic dismantling or alternative shipping methods can make it feasible. The decision hinges on budget, technical capability, and urgency. In the world of heavy equipment logistics, creativity often trumps convention—and sometimes, a forklift and a welder are worth more than a shipping quote.
The Caterpillar CS78B vibratory soil compactor is a formidable machine, weighing approximately 18.7 tons and measuring 6.13 meters in length, 2.46 meters in width, and 3.13 meters in height. In contrast, a standard 40-foot high cube (40HQ) container offers internal dimensions of roughly 12.03 meters long, 2.35 meters wide, and 2.70 meters high.
At first glance, the CS78B’s width of 2.46 meters (97 inches) exceeds the container’s internal width of 2.35 meters (93 inches), making it too wide to fit without modification. Even if the length and height are within acceptable limits, the width presents a critical challenge.
Creative Dismantling and Alternatives
Some operators have explored removing side plates or reconfiguring components to reduce the width to around 84 inches, which would allow the roller to fit snugly inside the container. Others suggest removing the drum and rotating the yoke vertically to minimize the footprint. However, such modifications require skilled labor, time, and may void warranties or compromise structural integrity.
An alternative is flat rack shipping, which accommodates oversized loads without the constraints of container walls. While more expensive, it avoids the risks of dismantling and reassembly. As one user put it, “Price is crazy now, boss,” reflecting the global surge in freight costs post-pandemic.
Shipping Realities in a Post-COVID World
The cost of international shipping has fluctuated wildly since 2020. According to the Drewry World Container Index, rates for a 40-foot container from Shanghai to Los Angeles peaked at over $10,000 in 2021, compared to $1,500 pre-pandemic. This volatility has pushed buyers to seek cost-saving alternatives, including containerizing heavy equipment.
In 2023, a construction firm in Kenya successfully shipped a modified CS78B by removing the ROPS cab and drum, reducing the height and width enough to fit into a 40HQ. The reassembly took two days, but the savings were substantial—nearly $4,000 compared to RORO (roll-on/roll-off) shipping.
Manufacturer Insights and Transport Tips
Caterpillar’s official specalog for the CS78B emphasizes its dual-pump propel system, Eco-mode, and compaction control technologies, but it does not provide containerization guidelines. For accurate transport planning, third-party platforms like offer detailed dimensions and weight data.
Key transport tips include:
- Measure all protrusions, including mirrors and bumpers.
- Consult with freight forwarders experienced in heavy machinery.
- Use CAD modeling to simulate container fit before committing.
- Verify insurance coverage for dismantled shipments.
While the CS78B cannot fit into a 40HQ container in its standard configuration, strategic dismantling or alternative shipping methods can make it feasible. The decision hinges on budget, technical capability, and urgency. In the world of heavy equipment logistics, creativity often trumps convention—and sometimes, a forklift and a welder are worth more than a shipping quote.
