How to choose a logistics partner for DMLS 3D printer deliveries

Direct metal laser sintering printers are precise, high value and mechanically complex. The storage and delivery of DMLS printers requires a logistics partner that understands large yet delicate equipment and complex technology such as laser optics. Benchmark Services have over two decades of experience in storing and transporting medical and precision equipment across the United Kingdom.

This guide will discuss the reasons for specialist requirements and why selecting the right partner is essential for maintaining positive customer satisfaction and experience.

If you are a 3D printer manufacturer and you require support delivering orders to locations across the UK, then please contact Benchmark Services and speak to our project team.

Delivering DMLS 3D printer equipment

If your manufacturing facility is based overseas from the UK, for instance in Germany, Sweden or China, then delivering your products via your own delivery team is time consuming, inefficient and can be very costly. The additional costs will eat into your profit in an already competitive industry.

Working with a trusted logistics partner, such as Benchmark Services, can provide significant benefits to cost control and last mile delivery satisfaction, especially if you utilise one of our fulfilment centre warehouses, specifically designed to store precision, delicate and bulky machines.

If you are currently assessing your logistics and product delivery options, then consider the following specialisms you will require from a transport partner.

Does the delivery company have an extensive track record and experience of moving highly sensitive and valuable equipment?
Are there clear processes and protocols in place to support customers at point of delivery? Including managing hard to reach or restricted access locations?
Does the delivery team have accreditation for specialist deliveries and the delivery and transportation of hazardous materials?

There are very few logistics businesses that can tick all three boxes, especially considering calibrated machinery. The Benchmark Services team have over two decades of experience across all three. Speak to us today to find out more.

Storing machinery in the UK ready for delivery

In a competitive marketplace, every advantage you can provide your customers will help win the next crucial order. Long lead times or delivery windows can potentially de-rail sales and allow your competition to step in.

The ability to store equipment securely and safely, ready for the call-off order to send to your client can significantly reduce your delivery lead times and help win more business. If your manufacturing facility is based in Europe or Asia, you can save days or weeks in shipping time.

Benchmark Services fully managed warehouses are set up to accommodate your sensitive and high value DMLS 3d printers. Originally designed for the medical and pharmaceutical industry, our high standards and background in scientific and analytical equipment means we have the storage infrastructure to safely store your products in the UK ready to dispatch when the order is confirmed. We can also integrate with your existing inventory management system and store parts, replacements and repair equipment in the UK to send to your clients in the unfortunate event of a breakdown. This reduces downtime and improves customer satisfaction, leading to repeat orders.

Our last mile white glove delivery is also a significant benefit for your customers. For a DMLS installation, we don’t just deliver to a loading bay. Instead we offer a fully end to end service, where we will take the unit to the exact installation point, position it correctly and assess and support on elements such as access routes, site conditions and maintenance clearance around the printer. This reduces the on-site work for your customer and speeds up their calibration time, so they become operational quickly.

Speak to our team about our storage, call-off and inventory management here

A specialist partner for DMLS 3D printer deliveries

DMLS printer systems are built to specifications measured in microns, they include reactive powders, such as titanium and aluminium alloy which are classed as hazardous materials and feature optical and laser systems highly vulnerable to shock, impact and temperature changes.

If you’re expanding sales in the UK then you will need a partner who:

Has significant experience delivering expensive, sensitive and bulky machinery
Understands the importance of good last mile customer support
Can deliver effectively to restricted access and difficult areas
Is accredited to handle hazardous goods
Can store and ship units, spare parts and accessories across the UK

Benchmark Services are one of a small handful of delivery specialists who meet all of the above.

Read our other case studies here

DMLS 3D Printer Deliveries: Frequently Asked Questions

Why are DMLS 3D printers more difficult to transport than other types of printer?

DMLS printers are calibrated to micron level tolerances, and their laser and optical assemblies can be significantly affected by shocks, vibrations and temperature extremes during delivery. The reactive powders used by DMLS printers, specifically Titanium and Aluminium alloy powders are also classed as hazardous and require careful handling. Finally the value of these units is significant which means an experienced, specialist transportation partner is essential for successful deliveries to customers. Contact our friendly team to find out more.

How would a DMLS manufacturer based overseas benefit from storage facilities in the UK?

The ability to reduce lead times for initial unit delivery can be the difference between winning or losing an order to a competitor closer to the UK. Storing units locally will significantly reduce delivery times and therefore increase sales.

Additionally, once the units are installed, the customer will need quick access to parts and accessories to ensure downtime is kept to an absolute minimum. Utilising Benchmark Services’ storage facilities will keep your customers operational for longer.

Can a 3PL partner such as Benchmark Services manage spare parts and consumables for DMLS 3d printer manufacturers?

Our storage and warehousing facilities can manage your 3d printer spares and accessories and ship them quickly to your client base. We can integrate with your inventory management tools to ensure you have full oversight of all parts stored in our facilities and our extensive experience of handling fragile products means you can trust the customer will receive the best service possible.

Can we arrange short term UK storage for our DMLS 3d printers while a project is completed?

We provide a fully flexible and tailored warehousing service for your DMLS 3d printer units and accompanying spares. This means you can work with us on a time-limited basis or long term, whatever you require to ensure your customers receive the best possible service.

Speak to us for more information.