Get instant freight rates for shipping conventional and CNC milling machines.
In simple terms, milling machines are manufacturing tools used to shape solid materials – such as metal, wood, fiberglass and even plastic.
Using a variety of cutting tools, milling machines carve out materials with a rotating cutter while moving vertically or horizontally. These versatile machines transform raw materials into useful everyday items, from custom car parts to wooden boats and anything in between. Milling machines are an essential tool in any machine shop.
A milling machine “is a drill press on steroids that was also born of aliens and superheroes,” according to the former host of MythBusters, Adam Savage. In a video on Savage's YouTube channel, Tested, he points out that if civilization fell, it could be rebuilt with a milling machine and a lathe – and he’s not wrong!
Milling machines have been around since the early 1800’s and have evolved from manual machines to sophisticated computer-controlled CNC machines. Conventional milling machines, which are still used today, have both manual and electric components. Computer number controlled (CNC) machines use computer programs to create accurate and precise pre-existing designs.
Traditional milling machine and CNC milling machines typically have the same components – a milling head, motor-driven spindle, saddle and milling table. Both CNC milling machines and conventional milling machines are categorized by the degree of motion and the orientation of the workpiece (raw material). Some of the most common types of milling machines are:
Whether you found a great deal on a milling machine on Craigslist, just sold one on eBay, or are relocating your machine-shop, we can help you move down the street or across the country.
FreightCenter can help ship your milling machines with:
If you are shipping a conventional milling machine, it is important to properly prepare it for shipping to prevent any damage from occurring.
PRO TIP: Crate your freight & save some money! Transporting unpackaged machinery can be very costly. Box, crate or palletize your freight shipment to save up to 50% or more on shipping costs. Need help packaging your furniture, office systems or machinery? Talk to your FreightCenter Agent about professional packaging options at an additional cost.
Due to the size, weight, and sophistication of CNC milling machines, special freight shipping considerations and over-size shipping will likely be required. FreightCenter can point you in the right direction of choosing a provider that can meet those needs.
Possible accommodations for these massive but delicate machines:
Make sure to provide us with the following information for accurate quotes:
Miscalculating the weight for items of this size can result in monetary consequences, such as billing adjustments, which can easily be avoided by ensuring you measure everything properly before shipping.
With hundreds of vetted carriers servicing local, regional, national, and cross-border markets, FreightCenter can find the logistics best suited for your machine transport needs. Let us help get your milling machine safely to its destination. For questions, answers, and custom freight quotes, speak to one of our agents answer by calling us at (800) 716-7608.