When you’re packing or shipping valuable, heavy or awkwardly shaped items, there’s not much room for error. Should you get the measurements wrong or the crate is a little too big or small, your item could arrive at its destination with significant damage.
This is absolutely the last thing we want, which is where on-site management comes in. Rather than relying on guesswork or hoping your spec sheet is up to date, an expert can come to you to measure your items in person.
Whether you’re moving a flight simulator, an antique sculpture, or a piece of complex machinery, having someone there on-site ensures everything is captured accurately, right down to the smallest protrusion or fragile component.
In this article, we’ll explain what on-site measurement is, why it’s so important, and what actually happens during a visit. So read on if you’re wondering whether it’s something you need, or you just want to understand the process a bit better.
What is on-site measurement?
On-site measurement is exactly what it sounds like. An expert from your chosen packaging manufacturer will come to your site to precisely measure the items you wish to export, ship or transport.
Someone who specialises in packaging design will have the experience and knowledge to physically measure your bulky or fragile items, reducing the need to rely on dimensions from spec sheets (which can sometimes be incorrect) or – dare we say it – simply guess. We’d advise you never guess the dimensions of your item for shipping.
Why is on-site measurement important?
There are lots of benefits to having an on-site visit, the most important being that there’s less room for error.
You probably wouldn’t buy a piece of furniture without first checking the dimensions of the space, and it’s the same principle when it comes to packaging and shipping.
Measuring your items on-site is even more important if you’re shipping large, heavy, delicate or irregularly shaped items. We’ve seen it all, from 12 full-flight simulators to high-value sculptures. And when you’re measuring these items, It’s not just about taking the height, width and depth and calling it a day.
On-site measurement considers any voids that may need additional internal support, and we will assess awkward shapes and how best to protect them. We also assess any parts that are more fragile and therefore need additional padding, along with any other features that may affect how the item is protected and transported.
Precision is key, and expert packaging designers can create a fully custom solution that works for your products. We will factor in not just the packaging, but also how the crate will be transported, unloaded and unpacked once it reaches its destination.
In some instances, repacking or reloading can occur partway through an item’s journey. For international shipments, for example, customs authorities may choose to inspect the contents of a crate or package.
This is especially common if the item is high-value, the documentation doesn’t quite match up or the country has strict import/export rules (notably the US and Australia). If your item is changing planes, ships, or even switching between transport methods (e.g. air freight to road freight), there may also be a need to unpack and reconfigure the load.
Precision, therefore, is key and is why proper initial packing and clear repacking instructions are so important.
What happens during an on-site measurement visit?
So what can you expect when your bespoke packaging manufacturer visits your site?
First, we’ll take the time to measure the item(s) carefully and precisely. This will involve taking general dimensions, such as height, width and depth, but also, for irregular shaped items, determining the longest, widest and tallest points.
We may also take photographs or even video footage to refer back to when designing your bespoke crate, particularly if the item has intricate details or needs to be packed in a very specific way. This ensures we can map out bespoke packing for unusual shapes properly, so your goods stay protected throughout their journey.
Next, to ensure your item is safe and fully protected, we’ll allow extra space for padding and additional packaging items. This could be foam, bubble wrap or timber furniture, such as stools or braces for extra support. Some areas may require more padding than others, so we’ll take this into account too.
Then, further extra space is needed to account for movement. During shipping, the item will be moved around quite significantly and if the item is too firmly packed into place, there’s actually more chance of it becoming damaged. A small gap between the packaging and the crate itself reduces the chance of damage and will better protect your products.
As part of measuring the overall length, width, and height of your item, we will also consider the dimensions of a pallet, if one is required.
Once your item(s) has been measured, you’ll be able to decide on a bespoke packaging design that’s right for you. We’re always happy to advise, but you can choose from plywood or softwood crates, both of which have their pros and cons, or simple wooden pallets.
It’s then our job to design and build your cases, and our on-site packing and handling team can manage the entire process. Once the bespoke cases are built, we’ll revisit your site to pack your items safely, bringing everything we need with us (including fully trained and licensed staff who can use specialist equipment like cranes and forklifts).
Do I need to have an on-site measurement visit?
No, not every shipment requires an on-site visit, but there are some clear signs that it could be the right decision.
If your item is particularly large, heavy, oddly shaped or high in value, it’s worth getting a specialist in. Likewise, if you’re exporting something internationally, where customs inspections or repacking could be involved, getting the dimensions absolutely spot on can prevent delays and complications.
To keep things moving quickly, we can often work from drawings first to give you an initial budget price. If needed, we’ll then arrange a site visit to confirm the details and finalise the design.
Items like industrial equipment, medical devices, sculptures or even heritage pieces often benefit from the care and precision of on-site measurement.
On-site measurement for precision with Tuplin
Tuplin are the experts in manufacturing bespoke cases. It’s something we’ve done for over 40 years, so we like to think that by now, we know what we’re doing. We’ve had the pleasure of packaging everything from hazardous items and computer control equipment to fine art and heavy machinery.
We understand HMRC Custom’s procedures inside and out, and our in-house shipping and freight-forwarding team have direct communication with the airlines and shipping lines.
From an on-site measurement visit to the safe delivery of your goods, we’ll be there each step of the way to ensure there’s no hiccups and you’ll be pleased you chose a bespoke packaging expert.
