How to Transport a CNC Machine

So, you just purchased a machine and are looking into CNC delivery. Maybe it’s a used CNC lathe, a used CNC vertical machining center or maybe even a new or used horizontal machining center. No matter what CNC machine you have purchased, you’ll have to get it rigged onto a truck for CNC delivery. Now you have some decisions to make. This simple guide will help you choose the best method to rig your new or used CNC machine.

RIGGING IS THE BEST CNC DELIVERY TOOL

Here at Premier Equipment, we have a full-time rigger that is able to load any new or used CNC machine from our floor onto your truck of choice. We are equipped with a 40,000-pound-capacity forklift, a 15,000-pound-capacity forklift and a 5,000-pound-capacity lift. We also have a 15-ton overhead crane.

Our full-time rigger has more than 30 years experience loading such machines—from a small 6,500-pound Mazak QT8N used CNC lathe to a 59,000-pound used Mazak FJV60/120. No matter the size, Premier’s rigging department can handle the job. All we need to know is the date your truck is coming in and our rigger will take care of the rest.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DELIVER YOUR CNC MACHINE

The most important information you will need to know is the weight and dimensions of your machine. CNC machines have a wide variety of sizes and weights. Machines like MiyanoNomura and Citizen CNC Swiss-type lathes can be very small in size but are extremely heavy. They may weigh more than a two-axis CNC lathe, like a Mazak QT8 or Mori Seiki CL200 with less than a two-inch bar capacity.

Swiss-type lathes often have multiple axes, therefore increasing the weight. CNC HMC (or horizontal machining centers) with 800mm, 1000mm or larger pallets are some of the largest CNC-type machining centers that are able to be moved without taking them apart completely. These types of CNC machines need very experienced riggers.

DELIVERING ASSEMBLED VS. DISASSEMBLED CNC MACHINES

Although the norm is to move a CNC machine as-is—in its entirety—there are rare times where CNC machines may be or have to be disassembled in order to fit on a truck. This is a job best suited for an experienced rigger and a CNC service technician. An expert rigger will assist a CNC service technician to dismantle the machine.

Normally, the CNC technician will remove and disconnect all the bolts and wiring, while the rigger will secure and move each piece of the CNC machine accordingly. It is imperative you choose the right combination of technicians and riggers to do any disassembling of any new or used CNC machinery. Premier Equipment could be that perfect combination for you.

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