Machine tools
Shipping a CNC machine from China to a US or European workshop
A machine-tool brochure gives the size of the installed machine. The freight planner needs the size of the machine as it will travel. Ask the supplier for the transport drawing for your exact model before comparing quotes.
Get a packing list for the machine you ordered
Ask whether the chip conveyor, coolant tank, control pendant and tool magazine travel attached or separately. Options on the same base model can change the widest point or add another case. Request the packed length, width, height and gross weight of each piece, including the shipping base. Mark preliminary figures as estimates.
Separate transport preparation from commissioning
Ask the machine builder who will prepare the axes and spindle for transport, record the condition before closing the crate and release the machine for collection. Give the receiving engineer the manufacturer's unpacking instructions and the location of the keys, service manual and transit fixtures. Have the builder identify any oil, coolant or battery that the carrier needs to review.
Check the route from the truck to the machine bay
Send the receiving team the packed drawing as well as the installation drawing. A crate may fit the factory entrance while the trailer cannot approach the unloading area. For a US workshop include the ZIP code and dock contact. For a European workshop include the country, postcode and receiving hours. Identify who handles unloading, unpacking and placement on the shop floor.
Send this request to the supplier
“Please send the final packing drawing for model __, the gross weight and dimensions of each case, photos of the shipping base and the proposed pickup date. Which accessories ship separately? Who will confirm transport preparation before collection?” Forward the reply with your delivery postcode so that the equipment and inland delivery can be assessed together.