Shipping server racks require meticulous attention to detail and adherence to proper packaging protocols to avoid shipping damage. For initial packaging, utilize sturdy materials such as foam padding, bubble wrap, and heavy-duty cardboard shipping boxes. When possible, disassemble the rack into smaller components to minimize potential damage during transit. For optimal protection of sensitive equipment, consider employing custom crates designed to the rack's specific dimensions.
Tip-N-Tell indicators, also known as tip-and-tell indicators, tip-and-tell, or tilt indicators, are recommended to monitor package handling and orientation during shipping. These shipping indicators affixed to the exterior of the package as self-adhesive labels, provide a visual indication if the shipment has been improperly handled, tipped, or dropped, exceeding the acceptable G-force range. Tip N Tell and Drop N Tell are popular brands of impact indicators and shipping damage indicators.
Re-shipping your rack
For repackaging, retain the original shipping brackets as they are essential for securing the rack to the shipping pallet and are not reorderable. Standard packaging is sufficient for empty racks, but populated racks holding sensitive equipment require heavy-duty enterprise packaging. Never attempt to ship a loaded rack in standard packaging, as this poses a significant risk of shipping damage.
When shipping racks with installed accessories, only use enterprise packaging. Standard shipping boxes are inadequate for populated racks. If equipment has been installed and the rack needs to be shipped, contact the sales representative to procure appropriate enterprise packaging such as custom crates.
Labeling your rack for shipment
Other helpful shipping & receiving labels include temperature stickers for shipping to monitor conditions, tamper-resistant labels, and blue arrow labels to indicate upright shipment orientation. Proper use of shock indicators, tilt indicators, and crates helps avoid mishandled shipments, upended packages, and damage to sensitive shipments and liquid shipments.
Adhering to these guidelines and utilizing transit monitoring tools will help ensure the safe arrival of the server rack at its intended destination. Proper packaging and labeling allow for easy damage inspection and identification of mishandled shipments that were tipped, dropped, or experienced impact exceeding acceptable levels. This is especially critical for sensitive equipment and helps shippers avoid the tipping hazard associated with top-heavy server racks.