5 International Freight Forwarders Worth Knowing in the USA

Jay Payne
Written by
Jay Payne
Last edited: Sep 5, 2026

Shipping heavy machinery or vehicles overseas? These five freight forwarders have the expertise to get your cargo moving—fast.

The Freight Forwarding Landscape in 2026

International freight forwarding has become a lifeline for businesses that need to move oversized, heavy, or time-sensitive cargo across borders. With global supply chains still recovering from recent disruptions, forwarders are leaning on digital tracking, specialized equipment, and deep port relationships to keep shipments on schedule. From FCL and LCL containers to project cargo and RoRo vehicle shipping, the right forwarder can mean the difference between a smooth export and a costly delay. In the USA, Miami stands out as a hub for Latin American and global trade, but forwarders across the country are competing on speed, transparency, and niche expertise.

How We Evaluated These Forwarders

We looked at each forwarder's service scope, focusing on whether they handle vehicles, heavy machinery, and project cargo. We also considered pricing clarity—how easy it is to get a quote and understand costs—and local fit, meaning how well they serve US-based exporters, especially those using Miami's ports. Finally, we weighed customer experience, including tracking capabilities and door-to-door support. Each business stood out in its own way: some for decades of experience, others for digital-first convenience, and a few for specialized heavy-lift expertise.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the five forwarders, their specialties, and what they’re best for.

ProviderBest For
SHIPIT LogisticsExperienced vehicle and automotive logistics
International Freight Forwarder Miami - AM Ocean MachineryFast, specialized vehicle and machinery exports from Miami
ASF LogisticsComplex heavy machinery and project cargo
Freightplus USAOversized and remote-location project cargo
GM International Freight Forwarders CorpCost-effective heavy equipment exports from Miami

The Five Forwarders, Closer Look

#1 SHIPIT Logistics

Screenshot of SHIPIT Logistics website A screenshot of the SHIPIT Logistics website.

SHIPIT Logistics has been moving vehicles and heavy equipment since 1974, making them a veteran in the automotive logistics space. They offer a full suite of services, including ocean freight, loading, AES filing, and customs title validation, so you get end-to-end support. Their expertise spans classic cars, luxury vehicles, motorcycles, and even bulldozers, which means they understand the nuances of different cargo types. If you need door-to-door, port-to-port, or door-to-port delivery, they have the flexibility to match your requirements. Their long track record and comprehensive service make them a reliable choice for complex shipments.

#2 International Freight Forwarder Miami - AM Ocean Machinery

Screenshot of International Freight Forwarder Miami - AM Ocean Machinery website A screenshot of the International Freight Forwarder Miami - AM Ocean Machinery website.

AM Ocean Machinery is a Miami-based forwarder that specializes in shipping vehicles, heavy machinery, and project cargo from the USA to over 120 ports worldwide. They offer FCL and LCL container shipping, vehicle export via RoRo or container, and heavy machinery transport with expert rigging and permits. What sets them apart is their 24-hour turnaround—they can get your shipment moving within a day, which is a huge advantage for time-sensitive exports. They also provide full tracking, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery, making the process seamless for you. If you're looking for a forwarder that combines speed with specialized cargo handling, this is a strong contender.

#3 ASF Logistics

Screenshot of ASF Logistics website A screenshot of the ASF Logistics website.

ASF Logistics brings decades of experience in machinery logistics, handling everything from construction equipment to turbines and robotics. They emphasize meticulous planning for oversized and out-of-gauge cargo, offering lift plans and route surveys to ensure safe transport. Their global reach covers land, sea, and air, so they can match the right equipment to your specific needs. Whether you're shipping a single excavator or a full project cargo, their expertise in heavy industry is evident. They also provide customs brokerage and cargo insurance, giving you a one-stop shop for complex moves.

#4 Freightplus USA

Screenshot of Freightplus USA website A screenshot of the Freightplus USA website.

Freightplus USA is a global forwarder with seven offices worldwide, specializing in oversized and heavylift shipping for mining equipment, boats, and project cargo. They operate as an NVOCC, customs broker, and marine cargo insurance agent, so they can handle every aspect of your shipment. Their door-to-door service covers remote locations, which is crucial for mining and energy projects in hard-to-reach areas. They also offer RoRo shipping for machinery and automotive, making them versatile for different cargo types. If you need a forwarder with a strong international network and heavy-industry focus, Freightplus is a solid pick.

#5 GM International Freight Forwarders Corp

Screenshot of GM International Freight Forwarders Corp website A screenshot of the GM International Freight Forwarders Corp website.

GM International Freight Forwarders Corp is a Miami-based forwarder with over 20 years of experience in heavy equipment transportation. They specialize in disassembling and containerizing machinery to maximize space and save you money on shipping costs. Their team has deep knowledge of PortMiami and can manage everything from vessel selection to destination customs documentation. They handle forklifts, industrial equipment, and construction machinery, making them a go-to for regional exporters. If you're looking for a forwarder with local expertise and a cost-conscious approach, GM Freight delivers.

How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder

Start by identifying your cargo type—whether it's a single vehicle, a container load, or oversized machinery—and look for a forwarder with proven experience in that niche. Consider your timeline: if you need speed, a forwarder with a 24-hour turnaround like AM Ocean Machinery might be your best bet. Evaluate their network and port relationships, especially if you're shipping from Miami or need to reach specific global destinations. Don't overlook pricing transparency; request quotes from multiple forwarders and compare what's included, like customs clearance and door-to-door delivery. Finally, check for tracking capabilities and customer support, because you want visibility and responsiveness throughout the shipment.

Streamlining Your Shipping Workflow

Modern freight forwarders are increasingly using digital tools to automate quote requests, booking, and tracking. For example, AM Ocean Machinery offers an online quote form that lets you specify cargo type, origin, and destination, and they respond within 24 hours. SHIPIT Logistics provides a TMS login and container tracking, so you can monitor your shipment in real time. By leveraging these automated systems, you can reduce manual follow-ups and get faster updates, making the entire shipping process more efficient.

The Takeaway

Choosing the right freight forwarder comes down to matching their strengths with your specific shipping needs. Whether you prioritize speed, heavy-lift expertise, or cost efficiency, each of these five forwarders brings something valuable to the table. For most businesses exporting vehicles or machinery from the USA, AM Ocean Machinery offers a compelling mix of speed and specialization, while SHIPIT Logistics brings decades of automotive experience. Take the time to compare quotes and services, and you'll find a partner that keeps your cargo moving smoothly across borders.

Jay Payne

About the Author

A veteran investigative journalist for 4 years, Jay Payne has a passion for uncovering market trends. When he isn't uncovering market trends, he's usually restoring motorcycles.