Shipping machines can be a risky deal. Ive done a few with trucks, trailers.
One time I moved my mill and lathe, and brought my fork lift with me on the flat bed to help unloading at the other end. The easyest way Ive ever done it, when I hired in riggers to do the job. Yes, the most expensive route to go, but they are equipped, and know what to do. And, they have insurance coverage incase something gets damaged.
My friend bought a Van Norman 12 from a aircraft repair shop, and he had the riggers do the job. I was there with him, and must say, they knew there job. The truck rolled in with a massive fork lift on the back, they had the fork lift on the groung in mins. They had the mill loaded tied down and wrapped so fast, I couldnt help but look on in aww.
The driver had the mill sitting in the garage for us with in mins after arriving at his house, we just stood there and watched. His only question was where do you want it? The best way, but most expensive too.
I hate moving machines, the stress level just sucks. I would go and be present while they load your machine, and make sure all goes well. Or if your picking it up your self, have a wrecker come in and get it from the ground to the trailer, you tie it down and your on your way. When you do reach you home, I would just call in another wrecker to pick it up, and set it either in front of your garage door or inside the door if possible.
Ive moved way to many machines over the years, and the riggers really do make it look easy. They have the right equipment, the experiance, and insurance if anything goes wrong.
) it would seem to make sense to have it shipped.