AMR and AGV export packaging should address chassis support, restraint, sensor protection and unloading together. A mobile robot's ability to operate on a factory floor does not establish that it is ready for transport vibration and handling impacts.
Battery configuration also needs attention before quotation and freight booking. Packaging design and shipping classification should be developed with consistent information about the equipment being shipped.
Confirm the final configuration
An added lift, rack or robotic arm can change the dimensions, centre of gravity and available fixing points. Provide drawings of the final shipping assembly, not only the base-platform catalogue.
Check the manufacturer's instructions for the exact model. For example, OMRON's LD Platform guide specifies its supplied shipping crate and upright transport in conditions free from condensation. Other models require their own instructions. Reference: OMRON LD Platform OEM User's Guide, section 3.2
Resolve four restraint questions
- Where is the weight supported? Confirm whether loads may pass through wheels, chassis members or designated transport supports.
- What limits horizontal movement? Match stops, locating features and restraints to approved contact points.
- How is stability addressed? Assess the centre of gravity with the complete upper assembly installed.
- Which surfaces must remain clear? Identify sensors, connectors and covers that must not carry packaging loads.
Stretch wrap, handling labels or the robot's brake should not be assumed to form a complete restraint system. Define the structure, operating method and inspection criteria.
Protect sensors and separate accessories
Design clearance around laser scanners, cameras, charging contacts and controls according to equipment requirements. Check that inserts cannot catch a cable or projection during unpacking.
Charging stations, installation kits and cables may travel in separate packs or dedicated compartments. In either case, identify the total package count and provide an accessory list so the recipient can reconcile the shipment.
Prepare battery information early
Record the chemistry, model, rated energy, quantity, installation configuration and any spare batteries. For lithium batteries, prepare applicable documentation such as the UN 38.3 test summary for review by qualified dangerous-goods personnel.
IATA guidance distinguishes battery shipping configurations and includes provisions for battery-powered vehicles. The words “robot” or “contains lithium batteries” are not enough to select a UN number, packing instruction or charge condition. Reference: IATA battery transport information
The manufacturer, shipper and transport specialists should agree on whether a battery remains installed. Air and sea shipments need their respective requirements checked. Mechanical packaging assessment does not establish dangerous-goods compliance.
Design for unloading at the destination
Confirm the recipient's lifting equipment, access and working space. Where a ramp is proposed, its capacity, slope, restraint and operating procedure require competent assessment. Packaging panels should not be treated as improvised drive-off ramps.
Instructions should distinguish opening the enclosure, confirming stability, releasing approved restraints and unloading by the agreed method.
Frequently asked questions
Can an AMR use a corrugated carton on a pallet?
It can be assessed where the manufacturer's requirements permit it. Support, restraint, clearance, stacking and unloading all need confirmation.
Does a UN-marked carton make a battery-powered robot ready to ship?
No. Classification, configuration, applicable packing requirements and carrier acceptance still require review.
Can the same pack be used after changing the upper rack?
Review dimensions, weight, centre of gravity and restraint. An unchanged chassis does not necessarily mean an unchanged transport requirement.
For a ZOHO Packaging assessment, send assembly and underside photographs, transport drawings, weight, fixing points, upper-module details, battery configuration, destination and unloading conditions. Packaging scope and transport responsibilities are confirmed for each project.
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