Operations managers who ship high-value equipment often underestimate the hidden costs of inadequate protection. Industry analyses show that damage rates can approach 10 percent and cost businesses roughly 0.5 percent of sales.
Even a single corroded gearbox can halt a production line, spark rush replacements, and jeopardize supplier relationships.
Well-engineered preservation packaging:
- Blocks moisture, oxygen, and contaminants that trigger corrosion.
- Cushions against vibrational shock and rough handling.
- Reduces claims, insurance premiums, and urgent repair costs.
- Safeguards brand reputation by ensuring on-time, intact delivery.
By investing in robust packaging now, you avoid the far greater expense of downtime later.
Our Proven Preservation Methods
Every shipment faces its own blend of hazards, so our engineers combine techniques to create the right balance of protection and budget.
- Vacuum-Sealed Barrier Packaging
We pull air from a MIL-PRF-121 bag, heat-seal it, and cradle the unit inside a structural crate. Ideal for electronics, optics, and moisture-sensitive machinery. - VCI Wraps and Films
Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor materials release vapor molecules that form an invisible shield on metal surfaces. Perfect for engines, gears, or polished tooling that must remain dry and clean. - Desiccant Control
We size desiccant units per MIL-STD-2073 guidance plus humidity indicator cards for visual assurance throughout storage. - Heat-Shrink Wrapping
Heavy-duty shrink film conforms to oversize or irregular items, providing a sealed weather-resistant skin; additional barrier layers can be added for long voyages. - Hybrid Systems
A sensitive aerospace component may receive foam cushioning inside a foil barrier, then a crate and shrink wrap outer shell. Mixing methods ensures no threat is left unaddressed.
Materials & Specs We Trust
Quality materials are the backbone of any preservation plan. We specify only proven, standards-compliant components.
| Material / Spec | Primary Benefit | Common Application |
| MIL-PRF-121 laminated foil | Vapor proof, heat sealable | Long-term machinery storage |
| VCI poly films | Non-oily corrosion protection | Powertrain parts, gears |
| High-density PE foam | Shock absorption without collapse | Heavy CNC bases, pumps |
| ISPM-15 heat-treated lumber | Pest-free export compliance | International crating |
Why These Specs Matter
Using sub-par materials saves pennies but risks millions. Our commitment to specification-grade supplies means:
- Predictable performance. Military and ASTM standards are validated under lab and field conditions.
- Global acceptance. ISPM-15 lumber clears customs without fumigation delays.
- Transparency. Every pack ships with photos, seal dates, and a bill of materials for audit readiness.
Industry & Regulatory Compliance
Complex rules govern the shipment of military, aerospace, and hazardous materials. Our engineers undergo ongoing training in the latest MIL-STD updates.
- MIL-STD Programs
We pack to MIL-STD-2073-1 method codes. Military inspectors can verify compliance on the spot.
- UN-Certified Packaging
Need to ship dangerous goods? We build UN-rated plywood crates (4D) and supply test certificates so your hazmat loads pass carrier checks.
- ISPM-15 Export Readiness
All wood components are heat treated, stamped, and documented.
- ASTM & Commercial Specs
Commercial projects follow ASTM D4169 transportation testing for vibration and drop resistance, ensuring reliable performance. See the full ASTM D4169 testing standard for details.
- Documentation Support
Packing lists, humidity indicator readings, and step-by-step photos accompany every order for audit-ready transparency.
Tailored Solutions for Your Sector
Every industry faces different hazards, timelines, and regulatory pressures. Below are some of the sectors we serve most often.
Manufacturing & Industrial Machinery
Precision mills, presses, and pumps survive long transits when we:
- Vacuum-seal critical surfaces and add desiccant.
- Build custom lift-rated crates using our industrial crating service.
- Install shock and tilt indicators for accountability.
Automotive & Transportation Components
OEM and aftermarket parts stay line-ready through:
- VCI wraps that prevent flash rust during sea voyage.
- Reusable racks or custom dunnage to speed plant return loops.
- Class-A surface protection with non-abrasive foams.
Aerospace & Defense Equipment
Sensitive avionics and ground-support tools remain mission-ready thanks to:
- Foil barrier bags with moisture indicators rated for 24-month storage.
- Compliance with Defense Logistics Agency codes found at the DLA Assist database.
- Rigging points and sling charts built into crates for safe lift.
Energy, Electronics, and Medical
- Heavy refinery valves get hybrid shrink-wrap plus foil-bag protection.
- Anti-static layers guard semiconductor tools against ESD.
- Clean-room wraps maintain sterility for biotech equipment.
Case Studies & Field Results
| Project | Challenge | Outcome |
| 10-ton CNC mill | Ocean transit followed by storage | Arrived with zero corrosion, installed same week |
| Oil-rig components | 24-month tropical laydown yard | Unsealed in factory-new condition |
| Prototype EV drivetrain | Class-A surfaces, tight timeline | No scratches, passed QC in 48 hours |
These results prove that well-engineered preservation removes costly surprises from complex supply chains.
Get a Custom Preservation Plan
Securing high-value assets starts with a conversation. Our engineers review your drawings, transit mode, and timeline, then create a preservation blueprint that balances risk and budget. Services can include on-site packing, custom crate fabrication, and post-shipment monitoring.
Start Your Preservation Plan
Claim a free preservation audit.
FAQs
How long does vacuum-sealed packaging remain effective?
Provides long-term protection when stored indoors with desiccant.
Can you pack at our facility?
Yes. Our mobile crews bring heat sealers, shrink guns, and lift equipment to prepare oversize or sensitive items on site.
Do you handle hazardous material paperwork?
We supply UN crate certificates and can assist with the 49 CFR packaging section. Final DG declarations remain the shipper’s responsibility.
What is the typical lead time?
Typical lead-times vary by project scope; rush service is available. Rush options are available for critical outages.
Which regions do you serve?
Headquartered in Indianapolis, we cover the Midwest daily and deploy nationwide for large projects.
Secure Your Assets Now
Every delayed line or corroded part drains profit and erodes trust. Partner with Express Packing to keep critical equipment intact, compliant, and ready for use when it arrives.
Talk to The Expert
Speak directly with an engineer within one business day.