Export machine tools are usually bolted to a heavy timber skid, coated with rust preventive on bare metal, wrapped in VCI film with desiccant bags, and enclosed in a wooden crate. The crate wood must meet ISPM 15 for most export markets.
Good packing protects the machine from two main risks: physical damage from lifting and movement, and rust from salt air and condensation at sea.
The layers of protection
- The moving parts are locked with transport brackets, so slides, tables and turrets cannot move in transit.
- Bare machined surfaces, such as slideways, spindles and tables, are coated with a removable rust preventive.
- The machine is bolted to a skid with heavy timbers, so it can be lifted by forklift or crane without stress.
- VCI film, which releases a corrosion inhibitor, is wrapped around the machine and sealed.
- Desiccant bags are placed inside the wrap to absorb moisture.
- The crate is built around the skid, with walls and roof braced to carry stacking loads.
Crate marking and documents
The crate should show the ISPM 15 mark, the centre of gravity, the lifting points, the gross weight, and handling marks such as "this way up" and "keep dry". A packing list should be fixed outside in a waterproof pouch, with a copy inside.
Accessories, spares, manuals and tools should be packed in a separate box fixed inside the crate, not loose. For export packing rules in more detail, see ISPM 15 and seaworthy crates.
Why VCI matters
A container at sea goes through daily temperature swings. Moisture condenses on cold steel and causes rust, especially on ground slideways. VCI film and desiccant together keep the air around the machine dry and protected. Our article on VCI packing explains how it works.
VCI protection lasts only while the wrap stays sealed. If customs or inspectors open it, ask them to reseal it, or keep spare film and tape in the crate for that purpose.
Ask how long the rust preventive and VCI are rated to protect the machine. If the machine will sit in a warehouse before installation, the protection must last that long too.
What to check before loading
- Check that transport brackets are fitted and painted in a visible colour, with removal instructions.
- Check that rust preventive covers all bare surfaces and that the VCI wrap is sealed without tears.
- Check that the crate timber carries a valid ISPM 15 mark from the treatment provider.
- Photograph each stage of packing, so you have evidence if damage or rust is found on arrival.
- Check the crate on arrival before you unpack, and note any damage on the delivery receipt.
Next step
We supervise packing, check every layer and photograph the process before the crate is closed. To start, book a free sourcing review.