Oversized Cargo
Oversized Cargo
Matson is Hawaii and Guam’s most experienced carrier in moving cargo that doesn’t “fit in a box.”
Over the years, we have fully demonstrated our ability to carry virtually anything that exceeds the dimensions of a container or flatrack, or exceeds equipment weight limitations to and from the Islands. We have expertise in breakbulk cargo including construction materials, entertainment productions, tourist submarines, observatory mirrors, trolley cars, RVs, campers, trailers, forklifts, heavy machinery, buses, boats, and everything in between.
Matson will work with you on transporting one-time shipments or large project moves, which can involve careful coordination of transportation according to a well-defined, time-specific schedule. Get a free quote today.
What is Oversized Cargo?
- Freight that exceeds the dimensions of a container or flatrack, or exceeds equipment weight limitations
- Any self-propelled vehicles, other than a personal vehicle
- Towable cargo
Oversized Rates
Our rates are calculated based on the cargo dimensions. Price depends on the overall length, width, height, and weight of the cargo and the type of service you select. Handling charges are also figured based on whether the cargo is to be loaded by the shipper to a flatrack or if it will be delivered to us as loose freight. Matson offers port to port service only for oversized cargo.
- Port to Port
If you plan to arrange your own trucking to and from the ports, Matson will manage the ocean transit part of your move between the mainland and Hawaii, or Guam. Oversized cargo can either be delivered to us as loose freight or loaded by the shipper to a flat rack. While flatrack dimensions vary slightly, these are the basic inside measurements of the flat rack sizes that can be utilized for Hawaii and Guam.
Obtaining A Flatrack For Loading
You can arrange for a Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement (UIIA) approved trucking company to deliver a Matson flatrack to your home or business and pick it up after you have loaded your cargo.
- If you plan to ship your freight on a flatrack, it will be delivered to you on a chassis (wheels) raising the floor about four feet above the ground. Matson does not provide ramps or lift-gates, tie-downs, or packing materials for loading.
- Please be sure to ask the trucking company if they are a UIIA-approved carrier. If they are unsure about their interchange status, please have them contact the UIIA at 1-877-438-8442 or visit the UIIA website.
Lift On / Lift Off Cargo
This type of oversized cargo is non-wheeled, lighter than 50,000 pounds, and is handled on Matson's equipment. The shipper is responsible for arranging to have the freight unloaded from the truck delivering it. Depending on the dimensions and nature of the freight, a forklift or a crane will need to be planned in advance. In most cases, the handling can be done by the longshoremen, however, in Long Beach, there is a third-party forklift company that would need to be hired. Payment can either be made to them directly or the charges can be advanced to your Matson freight bill.
Direct Transfer
Freight that will have to be lifted onto and off the ship directly by a Matson crane is known as a direct transfer. Diagrams of your freight showing lifting points may be required. Also, the date and time must be arranged prior to the cargo's arrival.
Shipping Schedule
Depending on the nature of your freight, it may be required to sail on a specific vessel. Please contact our customer service team at 1-888-362-8766 for more information regarding estimated sailing and arrival times.
Payment Methods
Our customer service representatives can take your credit card payment over the phone, or you can mail your payment to:
Matson Navigation - Accounts Receivable
426 N. 44th St., Ste. 250
Phoenix, AZ 85008
Payments are also accepted at ports in California and Honolulu only.
The following payment methods are accepted:
- Cashiers check
- Travelers check
- Bank or postal money order
- Wire Transfers
- Cash
- Credit card - Master Card, VISA, or Discover - Cardholder must be present if paying at the port
- Sorry, no personal checks are accepted
Please note:
- Payment will be required prior to shipment, or if your company does not have a credit account established with us, then it will be due before the cargo can be released at the destination.
- The shipment number must be noted on your payment.
Ports Serving Oversized Cargo
- Mainland - Matson offers oversized cargo service to or from Long Beach and Oakland. Tacoma offers service for oversized flatrack cargo, excluding oversized vehicles.
- Hawaii - Oversized cargo service is available to or from Honolulu, Hilo, Kahului, and Nawiliwili. Cargo heading to the islands of Molokai or Lanai can be transported to Honolulu through Matson; however, the shipper is responsible for arranging transportation and shipment through Young Brother's barge service.
- Guam - Matson provides oversized cargo service to and from Guam, Saipan, Rota, Palau, Yap, Chuuk, and Pohnpei.
Matson offers many specialized services designed to meet our customers' needs. To learn more about our oversized cargo services, please contact our Customer Service Center at 1-888-362-8766 or get a free quote today.