Mar. 18, 2026
This document provides comprehensive guidance for customers and partners in North America, Central America, and South America, covering product selection, compliance certification, transportation solutions, after-sales service, and other related aspects.

Yuchai Equipment has launched a series of small and compact excavators for the North American and South American markets, covering multiple ranges from 1 ton to 35 tons. The main models include:
model | Total working weight | Bucket capacity | Main market positioning |
U18 | Approximately 1,800 kg | 0.04 m³ | Urban pipeline and landscaping construction |
U20 | Approximately 2,000 kg | 0.05 m³ | Narrow working conditions, municipal maintenance |
U27 | Approximately 2,700–2,840 kg | 0.09 m³ | Pipeline laying, agricultural operations |
| U35 | Approximately 3,860 kg | 0.12 m³ | Residential construction and foundation earthwork |
| U60/YC80 | Approximately 6,000–8,000 kg | 0.25~0.36 m³ | Comprehensive civil engineering and highway construction |
| YC215 | Approximately 21,500 kg | 0.93 m³ | Large-scale earthmoving and mining support |
| YC230 | Approximately 23,100 kg | 1.08 m³ | Large-scale earthwork and infrastructure projects |
| YC330 | Approximately 31,380 kg | 1.6 m³ | Heavy-duty earthmoving, mining auxiliary |
| YC380 | Approximately 37,300 kg | 1.8 m³ | Large-scale infrastructure and mining stripping |
In addition, Yuchai's compact series excavators feature a telescopic chassis and tailless swing design , making them particularly suitable for the Americas market's demand for working in confined spaces.
- Non-road mobile machinery entering the North American (United States and Canada) market must comply with the following core regulatory requirements:
EPA Tier 4 Final (T4F) emission standards : issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), applicable to non-road diesel engines of 19 kW and above, requiring PM (particulate matter) and NOx (nitrogen oxides) emissions to be reduced by about 90% compared to Tier 2 standards, and is currently the most stringent emission regulations for non-road machinery.
CARB Standards (California): The California Air Resources Board standard is equivalent to EPA T4F, and some equipment operating in California requires separate registration.
Certificate of Origin (CO) : A certificate of origin issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) is required for export in order to apply for tariff reduction or to determine the tariff rate.
- The requirements vary among South American countries:
Brazil : Must meet PROCONVE MAR-1 emission standards (equivalent to EU Stage IIIA), and some models also need to pass INMETRO certification.
Other South American countries : They usually refer to equivalent standards such as EU Stage III or PROCONVE. It is recommended to confirm the latest regulations with local importers before exporting.
Since producing China's first mini excavator in 1989, Yuchai Equipment has been deeply involved in overseas markets and is one of the manufacturers with the most complete product portfolio of mini excavators in China , as well as an important export base for mini excavators in China.
North American Market : Yuchai U-series mini excavators have entered Canada and the United States in batches, continuously enhancing the brand's influence in the North American market.
South American Market : Yuchai Equipment's medium-sized excavators have entered South American countries such as Ecuador , Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay , steadily advancing its regional sales layout.
Export growth : The company's overseas sales business has continued to grow rapidly, with export sales increasing by 180% year-on-year in recent years .
Depending on the excavator's model, size, and weight, the following three shipping methods are mainly used:
- Option 1: Standard container (20'GP / 40'GP)
Applicable to : Mini excavators with a height ≤ 2.5 m and a weight ≤ 24 tons (such as U18, U20, U27, U35, etc.).
Advantages : Relatively low freight costs, frequent flight routes, stable delivery times, and high equipment security.
Key operating points : Before loading, the counterweight or boom must be removed, the tracks must be secured with professional shock-absorbing fasteners, and the fuel must be drained to a safe level.
- Option 2: Special cabinets (open-top cabinets/frame cabinets)
Applicable to : medium-sized excavators with a height of 2.5 to 3.5 m and a weight of ≤ 40 tons (such as YC80, YC215, etc.).
Advantages : Solves oversized issues, high flexibility
Important Notes : This procedure requires a professional tying engineer and payment of an over-limit permit and additional fees.
- Option 3: Bulk Cargo Ships (Ro-Ro Ships/General Cargo Ships)
Scope of application : Machines weighing ≥ 50 tons, or extra-long and extra-wide large equipment.
RoRo features : Self-driving equipment loading and unloading, fast loading and unloading, low damage rate, and lower cost compared to bulk cargo solutions.
Characteristics of general cargo : single-piece lifting, suitable for disassembled heavy components, but with higher costs and limited port coverage.
Note : For Yuchai's main export product, the U-series mini excavators, standard container shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective solution, and it is also the company's primary choice for bulk exports to the North American market.
reference transit times for container shipping from major domestic export ports (Shanghai, Tianjin, Guangzhou, Qingdao, etc.) to various destination ports in the Americas :
Destination area | Main port of destination | Reference travel time |
West Coast of North America | Los Angeles, Long Beach, Seattle, Vancouver | Approximately 45–50 days |
East Coast of North America | New York, Savannah, Houston | Approximately 50-60 days |
Mexico | Manzanillo, Veracruz | Approximately 48-55 days |
Central America | Panama City, Colon | Approximately 52-60 days |
West Coast of South America | Callao (Peru), Guayaquil (Ecuador) | Approximately 55-65 days |
East Coast of South America | Santos (Brazil), Buenos Aires (Argentina) | Approximately 60-70 days |
Note : The above times are for reference only. Actual transit time may be longer due to factors such as route schedule adjustments, port congestion, and waiting times at transshipment ports. It is recommended to allow a reasonable delivery buffer period when signing the contract.
To ensure the excavator arrives at its destination safely and undamaged during long-distance sea transport, the following procedures must be strictly followed before shipment:
Fuel and hydraulic fluid handling : Fuel must be drained to 10% to 20% of the tank volume to meet the regulations for the transportation of dangerous goods; hydraulic lines must be sealed to prevent leakage.
Boom and bucket securing : Lower the boom to its lowest position, place the bucket on the ground, and secure it to the container lashing points with wire ropes (recommended diameter ≥ 20 mm) to prevent swaying during transport.
Track locking : Mini excavators must have their travel motor locked or anti-slip mats placed under the tracks to prevent the equipment from shifting inside the housing.
Rust prevention treatment for exposed metal : Apply rust-preventive grease to exposed metal parts such as bucket teeth and cylinder piston rods, and wrap them with plastic film or kraft paper to prevent moisture.
Accessories and tools packaging : Random accessories (bucket, bucket teeth, toolbox, etc.) must be packed separately and secured to avoid collision with the main unit.
Photo and video record keeping : The entire packing process must be photographed or videotaped for record keeping, as evidence for insurance claims and dispute resolution.
Exporting excavators to the Americas market requires the following main documents (specific requirements vary depending on the destination country; the following is a general list):
Document Name | Instructions for use |
Commercial Invoice | The declared value of the goods must be consistent with that on the bill of lading and packing list. |
Packing List | List the model, serial number, net weight, gross weight, and dimensions of each piece of equipment. |
Bill of Lading (B/L) | Title certificate, essential for picking up goods upon arrival at port. |
Certificate of Origin | Issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) for enjoying tariff preferences. |
Export customs declaration | Chinese Customs Export Declaration Certificate |
EPA Certification (for the United States/Canada) | Prove that the engine meets Tier 4 Final emission standards |
Product Certificate of Conformity / Factory Inspection Report | This proves that the equipment meets the factory quality standards. |
Transport insurance policy | For cargo marine insurance certificates, it is recommended to purchase "all risks" coverage |
Importing excavators into the United States requires customs clearance through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which mainly involves the following costs:
Import tariffs : These must be declared by a local licensed customs broker in accordance with the U.S. Tariff Schedule (HTS). The specific tariff rate varies depending on factors such as product model and trade policies. It is recommended to consult with U.S. importers or local professional customs brokers in advance for the latest information.
Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) : A basic processing fee levied by U.S. Customs on imported goods. The calculation standard and rate are subject to dynamic adjustments based on the latest U.S. Customs policies. The specific amount is subject to the official regulations at the time of customs clearance.
Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) : Applicable only to port-related charges for ocean imports. The billing rules and rates are subject to the current policy requirements of U.S. maritime and port management.
After the goods arrive at the port of destination and complete customs clearance, the following local delivery steps still need to be completed:
Port pickup : Exchange the original bill of lading (or telex release confirmation letter) for a delivery order (D/O) from the shipping company, pay the storage fee to the port, and then pick up the goods.
Unpacking and inspection : It is recommended to unpack the goods at the port or freight forwarder's warehouse, thoroughly check the appearance and parts of the equipment, record any damage during transportation on the spot, and submit a written objection to the freight forwarder/insurance company.
Land transportation : Large excavators need to be transported by professional low-bed trailer companies; the height and weight limits of the transportation route and the bridge load-bearing capacity need to be confirmed in advance, and some states (provinces) also require an oversized transportation permit.
On-site commissioning : After the equipment arrives on-site, Yuchai authorized service engineers or local dealers will complete the overall machine inspection, functional testing and the first maintenance of the equipment to ensure that it is put into use in the best condition.
Yuchai Equipment provides a comprehensive quality assurance system for its export products:
Whole machine warranty : 2 years or 2,000 hours (whichever comes first) from the date of delivery .
Key components : The warranty period for core components such as engines, hydraulic pumps, and main valves shall be implemented in accordance with the corresponding standards of the suppliers, and extended warranty plans are provided for some components.
Remote technical support : Through video conferencing and online diagnostic platforms, Yuchai engineers can assist dealers in resolving technical issues in real time.
Yuchai Equipment has established a multi-tiered after-sales service system in the Americas:
Authorized dealer network : Authorized agents and dealers are located in various countries in the Americas, providing convenient repair services, spare parts supply and technical consultation.
Dealer technical training : Yuchai Equipment regularly provides product training to its authorized dealers in the Americas to ensure that local technicians have professional maintenance capabilities.
Official technical hotline : Customers can contact the international after-sales support team through Yuchai Equipment's official channels, which provides multilingual technical consultation services on weekdays.
On-site dispatch service : For major technical issues, you can request the original manufacturer's engineers to provide on-site support (depending on the project scale and contract terms).
Yuchai Equipment is actively expanding its agency cooperation network in the Americas market. Interested partners are welcome to contact us for further discussion. The basic requirements for applying to become an authorized dealer are as follows:
- Having a legally registered company entity and a foundation for construction machinery sales/leasing business in the target region.
- Possess a certain scale of exhibition space and after-sales maintenance capabilities (or have a clear construction plan).
- Willing to accept official product and technical training from Yuchai and comply with brand promotion guidelines.
- Possesses excellent market resources and customer relationships
contact our international sales team:
Website: www.yuchaicm.com
Email: [email protected]
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