Discover the versatile transport packaging: from case and crate to flightcase.
When to choose which transport packaging?
The earlier Gefken Cases is involved in the development process of the product to be transported, the more we can think along and contribute to the packaging. When choosing a transport solution for your specific product, we take into account the nature of the goods, the transport process, and the required protection.
- Physical properties As the first step in determining the right transport case, we look at the physical properties of the product to be transported. How heavy is it? Is it fragile? Are there any accessories involved? These are some of the questions we consider. Of course, the value of the product also influences the transport solution.
- Mode of transport There is a big difference in the way of transport. Will the product be transported in the back of a car, by truck, or even by air or sea freight? You can imagine that transport by car involves fewer handling steps and rougher conditions compared to air freight. This plays a big role in how much strain the packaging will endure.
- Lifetime Is the transport case simply used to get the product from A to B and therefore valuable enough to make a custom case or crate? Or is it packaging that will be used throughout the entire lifespan of the product to transport it? This not only differs in the choice of material, but also in the overall appearance of the transport case.
Transport Case, Transport Crate, or Transport Flightcase?
There are different terms used to refer to a transport packaging. One person may call it a transport case, another searches for aluminum transport crates, and a third person refers to the same product as a flight case. Regardless of the terminology used, they all refer to packaging designed to transport something functionally and without damage.
Gefken distinguishes between three types of packaging in its range:
- Aluminum Transport Crate: the Alpos
- Transport Case: Various types, such as the waterproof plastic case Sentinel and the Gefken Basic, Cube and Gefken Plus
- Flightcase: the G2 Flightcase and G2 Flightcase Light
The difference between these transport packages mainly lies in the shape, construction, and use. For example, a flight case is sturdy and robust, which is important for transporting (sensitive) equipment or products. The Alpos transport crate is resistant to corrosion and weather influences, making it ideal for outdoor use. But sometimes a waterproof plastic case like the Sentinel might be the best transport packaging.
Custom-Made to the Millimeter
Most transport cases are custom-made and can be produced with millimeter precision. However, the Alpos crate and waterproof Sentinel case have fixed dimensions, making these transport solutions slightly less flexible in size. This can have a negative impact on storage space and transportation costs, but not on the protection of the product. The interior is always custom-made, ensuring your product receives optimal protection. At Gefken Cases, we always work from the product to be transported to the packaging, so from the inside out. This minimizes the volume of the transport packaging, allowing you to make the most efficient use of available space during storage and transport, which results in cost savings.
Different Interior Solutions
Depending on the physical properties of the product and the method of transport, there are various protection solutions for the interior of the packaging. Does the product need extra protection against vibrations and external impacts, or is the case, crate, or flightcase sufficient? To secure the goods and provide extra protection, a foam interior with cutouts for the goods or a flexible partitioning system can be added. A system with, for example, wire springs for vibration-free transport of products is also possible.
When designing, we not only focus on protection but also consider user-friendliness and how you will use the crates or flightcases. The layout should be clear, making it immediately obvious if the contents of the case are complete. Additionally, we consider, for efficient operation, that the part you need last doesn’t come out of the case or flightcase first. Sometimes compromises need to be made, such as placing heavier parts at the bottom of the case. Together, we will discuss the best interior solution for your transport case!
A Consistent Brand Experience
Choosing the right transport case goes beyond functionality alone. Custom-made cases offer the opportunity to perfectly match the look of your brand, for example, through printing. The aluminum transport crates, such as the Gefken Basic and Gefken Plus, provide several aesthetic options to customize the crate to your preferences. Additionally, the transport crates can be printed and tailored to individual needs, ensuring they perfectly align with your brand and products. Moreover, they can be equipped with handles, wheels, or transport tubes for easy movement. This saves time and prevents damage during loading and unloading, especially when dealing with large volumes or heavy loads.
Transport Cases, Crates, and Flightcases in Various Industries
At Gefken, there are many options, whether you’re looking for a transport crate or a transport case. Both the cases and aluminum transport crates are used for a wide range of products in different industries.
For example, in the medical sector, manufacturers regularly ship medical equipment worldwide. Often, this is done in a flightcase. Another great example is the scale-up company Avy, which produces professional drones, among other things, to transport blood samples or vaccinations between hospitals. These drones are delivered by AVY to their customers in flightcases.