How Do You Safely Ship a CNC Machine?

Shipping a CNC machine requires planning, engineering, and protective crating to prevent mechanical damage during transit. At Pakrite Express in New York, we design and build custom heavy-duty crates that protect CNC equipment from vibration, impact, and environmental exposure through every stage of transport.

Why CNC Machines Need Special Handling

CNC machines are precision-built and sensitive to vibration and shifting. Even a small movement can affect calibration or cause costly downtime. Proper crating and preparation ensure that all components remain stable, aligned, and fully functional on arrival.

Risks During Improper Shipping

• Internal mechanical shock damaging alignment

• Corrosion from trapped moisture

• Electrical and control panel damage

• Frame distortion from poor weight distribution

• Delays or reinstallation costs due to inadequate protection

Steps to Safely Ship a CNC Machine

1. Perform a Full Inspection and Preparation

Before shipping, inspect the machine for existing wear or damage. Disconnect power lines, drain fluids, and remove loose attachments or tooling. Secure moving parts and close all panels.

2. Disassemble or Secure Components

Large CNC units may need partial disassembly for safe handling. Components such as spindles, motors, or control arms should be locked, braced, or crated separately.

3. Use Custom Crating and Shock Protection

At Pakrite Express, each CNC machine crate is designed for the specific model’s size, shape, and weight. We incorporate blocking, foam isolation, and internal bracing to prevent vibration or tilt during transport.

4. Reinforce Weight Distribution

The crate base is built to support heavy loads evenly. Reinforced pallets allow secure lifting by forklift or crane without strain on the machine frame.

5. Label and Document Everything

Every crate is marked with handling instructions, lift points, and orientation labels. We also provide documentation for shipping insurance, export compliance, and reassembly reference.

6. Choose the Right Transportation Method

For domestic shipments, flatbed or air-ride trucks minimize vibration. For overseas shipping, ensure crates meet ISPM-15 export certification to comply with customs regulations.

Why Professional Crating Is Essential

Improper crating is the main cause of CNC machine damage during transport. Professional crating adds structural integrity, shock absorption, and moisture protection that standard pallets cannot provide.

Key Advantages of Professional Crating

• Engineered to handle weight and vibration

• Built to international shipping standards

• Includes corrosion-resistant materials and sealing

• Reduces downtime from damage or recalibration

• Provides traceable, insured transport

Why New York Manufacturers Choose Pakrite Express

Since 1982, Pakrite Express has served New York’s industrial and manufacturing sectors with reliable crating and shipping for heavy machinery, including CNC systems. Our in-house engineers and carpenters design every crate to meet performance and safety standards.

• Over 40 years of industrial packaging experience

• ISPM-15 certified materials for global shipping

• Precision blocking and bracing for heavy machinery

• Safe handling and coordination with freight carriers

• Proven record of damage-free transport

Contact Pakrite Express for CNC Machine Crating and Shipping

If you need to ship a CNC machine safely and efficiently, Pakrite Express in New York provides turnkey crating, packaging, and logistics solutions. Contact our team today to request a quote or schedule pickup for your next CNC shipment.

FAQs

How do you prepare a CNC machine for shipping?

Disconnect all power, drain fluids, lock moving parts, and secure loose components. The machine should then be placed in a custom crate with internal bracing.

What type of crate is best for a CNC machine?

A heavy-duty wood crate with reinforced base, blocking, and shock-absorbing foam provides the best protection for CNC equipment.

Can CNC machines be shipped internationally?

Yes. For export, the crate must be built with ISPM-15 certified wood and include documentation for customs clearance and insurance.

How much does it cost to ship a CNC machine?

Costs vary based on size, weight, and distance. Professional crating and freight coordination typically start around several hundred dollars per unit.

Does Pakrite Express handle pickup and delivery?

Yes. Pakrite Express provides pickup, crating, and shipping coordination for CNC machines throughout New York and nationwide.