Machines
Transporting CNC lathes
Lathes are mostly long and low, but their weight is rarely evenly distributed: headstock and main drive sit at one end. On top come bar loaders or chip conveyors that have their own dimensions and lifting points.
What matters
- Uneven weight distribution
- The headstock makes one end considerably heavier. This has to be taken into account when lifting and securing the load.
- Turret and tailstock
- Tool turret, tailstock and slides are moved to transport position and secured; tools are removed.
- Bar loader
- A bar loader is long and comparatively light but sensitive. It usually travels as a separate item.
- Chuck and spindle
- Chuck and spindle nose are precision assemblies. They are protected, not loaded.
Planning questions
We clarify these points before quoting – the earlier they are known, the more precise the plan.
- Is it a slant-bed, flat-bed or vertical lathe?
- Is there a bar loader or gantry loader, and does it travel separately?
- Are turret, tailstock and slides secured and tools removed?
- Where is the centre of gravity, and are there lifting points from the manufacturer?
- How long is the machine including chip conveyor?
What we need from you
- Design, manufacturer and weight
- Length, width, height of machine and accessories
- Details of bar loader and chip conveyor
- Photos of the installation
Preparation: You hand the machine over ready for transport – dismantling, later installation and commissioning are done by your team or the manufacturer's service.
What we do for you
What we organise
- Transport planned around dimensions, weight and route – with the right vehicle and secure load
- Loading, unloading and crane work organised alongside on request
- One contact who coordinates dates with you and the people on site
Good to know
Bar feeders and chip conveyors are best transported as separate packages; your service secures the turret and tailstock beforehand.
How it works
- 01
Request
You send route, date and machine details using the form below – anything unknown can stay open.
- 02
Review
We check length and weight distribution, lifting points and whether loader and accessories fit on the same vehicle.
- 03
Quote
You receive a quote with the agreed scope – on request including loading and crane organisation.
- 04
Execution
Loading with the heavy headstock taken into account, securing, transport and handover of all parts at destination.
Questions and answers: CNC lathes
Why does weight distribution matter for lathes?
The headstock makes one end considerably heavier. Lifting points and load securing have to account for this, otherwise the machine hangs at an angle or loads the vehicle unevenly.
Does the bar loader travel together with the lathe?
Usually as a separate item. It is long and sensitive and needs its own support. Whether it fits on the same vehicle is shown by the review.
Do tools have to be removed from the turret?
Yes. Tools are removed and packed separately, turret, tailstock and slides are secured in transport position – by your service team before collection.
Request
Request for this topic: CNC lathes
Three steps. Anything you do not know yet can be left open.
Details for planning
- Design, manufacturer and weight
- Length, width, height of machine and accessories
- Details of bar loader and chip conveyor
- Photos of the installation