How to Package Diesel Generators for Safe International Shipping

1. Start with Compliance: Global Wood Packaging & HazMat Rules

ISPM 15 / IPPC Wood Packaging Mandate

• Use heat‑treated or fumigated lumber marked with the official IPPC/ISPM 15 stamp.
• Plywood, OSB, and fiberboard are exempt (manufactured under high heat/pressure).
• Never use raw, bark‑covered, or infested wood.

Fuel & Battery HazMat Compliance

• Drain all fuel tanks completely; wipe residual fuel and vapors.
• Disconnect or remove batteries; ship separately in UN‑certified packaging if required.
• Label and declare properly to avoid carrier rejection or penalties.

2. Structural Packaging: Match Crate Design to Generator Size

Best Practices for Heavy‑Duty Crating

• Build crates to support full static & dynamic weight (account for 1.5G–2G forces in transit).
• Use bolted construction (nails loosen over ocean vibration).
• Add steel corner guards & edge protectors to prevent crushing during handling.
• Design for forklift & crane access with clearly marked lift points.

3. Environmental Protection: Stop Rust, Moisture & Salt Spray

Multi‑Layer Protective System

1. Surface Treatment
   • Clean and degrease all exposed metal parts.
   • Apply long‑acting anti‑corrosion oil or rust preventive film to shafts, flanges, and connectors.
2. VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) Packaging
   • Wrap control panels, alternators, and sensitive parts in VCI film/paper.
   • VCI molecules form a protective layer that stops oxidation without grease.
3. Moisture Barrier
   • Enclose the unit in a thick PE or aluminum foil barrier bag.
   • Add desiccant packs (calculated by cargo volume & voyage length).
   • Seal tightly to block humidity and salt air.
   4.Shock & Vibration Damping
   • Place rubber isolators or foam padding between the generator and base skid.
   • Secure loose parts (hoses, panels, filters) to prevent abrasion.

4. Secure Blocking & Bracing: Eliminate Movement Inside the Container

Secure Mounting

• Bolt the generator firmly to its skid or base frame using chassis mounting points.
• Attach the skid to the container floor using lashing straps, steel bands, or bolt‑down brackets connected to ISO container corner castings.

Blocking & Bracing

• Install solid wooden or metal braces front/back/left/right to prevent longitudinal & lateral movement.
• Use wedges & retainers around wheels or skids.
• Fill voids with dunnage bags or foam to stop side‑to‑side shifting.

5. Clear Labeling & Documentation: Speed Handling & Customs

Mandatory Markings (English + destination language)

• Gross weight, net weight, dimensions
• Center of gravity mark
• Lifting points / sling positions
• This side up, Do not stack, Keep dry, Fragile
• IPPC/ISPM 15 stamp for wood packaging
• HazMat labels (if shipping batteries or residual fuel)

Documentation to Include Inside/Outside

• Commercial invoice & packing list
• Export packing declaration
• IPPC/ISPM 15 certificate
• HazMat shipping papers (if applicable)
• Unit technical specs & handling instructions

6. Container Loading & Unitizing for Ocean Transit

Choose the Right Container

• 20’ GP: Most small–medium Generator Sets
• 40’ GP / HQ: Larger sets or multiple units
• Open Top: Tall units with exhausts or radiators
• Flat Rack: Oversized, wide, or heavy units

Loading Tips

• Center the unit to align with the container’s longitudinal centerline.
• Leave 10–15 cm clearance on all sides for bracing and ventilation.
• Cover with a waterproof tarp if using open/flat racks.
• Take photos pre‑seal for insurance & claims records.

7. Pre‑Shipment Checklist: Avoid Costly Mistakes

1. All fuel drained, tanks dry, batteries disconnected
2. ISPM 15 certified wood packaging (if used)
3. Full anti‑corrosion & VCI protection applied
4. Unit bolted to skid; skid secured to container
5. All braces, wedges, and dunnage installed
6. External labels complete and legible
7. Documentation attached and enclosed
8. Photos taken of packaged & loaded unit

Final Thoughts