I sometimes read what i want it to be and not what is actually written. Normal I quess. HC-12 modules have long range and do not cost much. It is easy to wish too much
I once used in project ISM modules from RF solutions https://www.rfsolutions.co.uk/. They still work perfectly. And have a long range. But they were not as cheap as HC-12. Receiver especially costed around 50 euros or so. We used a module called QMR1. But it was around 2001.
Radiometrix is an other I know but I have not needed their products, so I can't really say anything specific.
In a moving machine, everything (including these modules) must be soldered of course but also glued in place. Othervise they'll shake themselves loose.
If you google ISM transmitter or ISM transmitter modules you'll get plenty of hits. ISM is the license free frequency band.
Regards
Leif M