Greeneville, S.C. – October 06, 2026 -- Choosing the wrong packaging method for industrial machinery shipments can expose businesses to damage, delays and costly repairs, according to crating and logistics specialists Ed and Stacey Pinson of CWF Crating and Logistics, LLC. The Greeneville-based firm outlined the operational trade-offs between crates, skids and pallets in a published guidance piece on industrial shipping standards.
Pallets remain the lowest-cost option for standard machinery loads
A pallet offers basic support that allows forklifts and pallet jacks to move goods efficiently, making it suitable for straightforward machinery transport. The format keeps shipping costs lower but may lack sufficient structure for complex or delicate equipment.
Skids address uneven weight distribution and limited lift points
Skids, which are often customized to support irregular shapes or heavy loads, become necessary when equipment does not sit evenly on a standard pallet or requires specialized handling. This added stability reduces shifting during transit, directly lowering the risk of in-transit damage.
Crates provide full enclosure for long-distance and international freight
For shipments involving long distances, multiple handling points, or international transport, a crate that fully encloses equipment offers the highest level of protection against impact, moisture and environmental exposure. The Pinsons noted that crating is particularly critical for fragile components or complex assemblies, where enclosure reduces the risk of damage from shifting loads or rough handling.
Upfront savings on pallets and skids carry hidden damage risk
While pallets and skids typically cost less than crates, the guidance warns that lower upfront spending can increase exposure to damage if freight protection proves inadequate. Businesses are advised to weigh potential repair and delay costs against the savings generated by choosing a less protective shipping method.
Decision factors identified in the guidance include equipment weight, fragility, available lift points and transit conditions. Heavy or oversized machinery may require a reinforced skid or pallet, while sensitive or high-value items often warrant the full enclosure of a crate.