Sending via Pallet is a cost effective method of sending engines and gearboxes across the UK
Engines and gearboxes are shipped across the country every day. Either by ebay sellers and professional rebuilding companies. The most reliable and cost effective courier method of an engine is via pallet. They are often heavy and bulky, particularly if attached to gearboxes. This means they need to utmost care when transporting them. There are a few rules that you must follow to ensure safe transportation.
Used engine collection guide details
You must take particular care when shipping engines. Rules and regulations must be adhered to to minimise problems. For example, all fluid must be drained from the engine/gearbox. Fluids can leak and contaminate other shipments or equipment and transportation. You also need to make sure to fasten the engine or gearbox securely. These safety guidelines are to prevent problems and should be strictly adhered to.
- Remove ALL fluids from the engine or gearbox. The driver will check the oil level on collection, and it cannot be shipped if any oil is present..
- Cover the pallet with rags or oil resistant material before placement of the engine. All potential drips should be minimised..
- If a sump is present, an old tyre is ideal to stabilise the engine and supoprt the area around the sump.
- Fasten by a ratchet strap. Steel or plastic banding fitted is also acceptable. If using banding placing rags between the engine and strap to reduce risk of breakage
- Collection can be refused if any other method is used. This includes rope, shrink wrap etc. Only ratchet strap or machine strap is acceptable.
- You can use shrink wrap over ratchet or machine strap. Access to the dipstick is still required for oil checking purposes (make a hole). The strap/band should be visible through the shrink wrap. Black shrink wrap is not accepted.
- The driver has the right to refuse collection as in Paragraph 223 of the Health and Safety Executive, Workplace Transport Safety Guide. We all have a duty to ensure the consignment is secure and safe.
Examples of how to ship engines securely and safely via Pallet
Bad
- Tied with rope is not a good way to secure an engine on the pallet. The rope can stretch, come loose, or a once secure knot may not be as secure once in transit. We do not recommend or accept rope tied engines
Good
- Engines strapped tightly to the pallet. Ideally should have rags/mats underneath, but it is drained and is a ‘clean’ engine, it is not wet with oil.
- Plastic band strapped engine. 4 plastic straps done by machine and tight. Engine sits flat on pallet, no tyre needed.
- Ideally should be sat on rags/mat, but not needed as engine is drained, and is very clean. Straps could benefit from protection, but if bands touch smooth areas then are ok.
