INTERNATIONAL ORDERS / CNC MACHINING INSIGHTS
A part can meet the drawing and still arrive with avoidable handling damage if the packaging requirement is left until the end. For international CNC orders, define the protection, identification and destination details when the RFQ is released—not after the parts are finished.
Start with the part’s vulnerable features
Think about what could be damaged in normal handling: cosmetic faces, anodized surfaces, sharp threads, sealing edges, thin walls, or precision mating features. A general request for “good packaging” does not tell the team which feature must remain protected. Identify the critical areas and any no-contact surfaces in the drawing package or order note.
Give each package a clear identity
Part number, drawing revision, quantity and purchase-order reference should remain associated with the packaged parts. For mixed assemblies or multiple revisions, tell the team whether different items must be separated, bagged, labelled or grouped by kit. This reduces ambiguity during receipt and incoming inspection.
| Packaging question | What to define in the order |
|---|---|
| Part protection | Which cosmetic, threaded, sealing or contact surfaces require protection. |
| Identification | Part number, drawing revision, quantity and PO reference needed on the package. |
| Separation | Whether individual wrapping, bags, trays or kit grouping is required. |
| Documentation | Any packing list, inspection record or destination label requirement. |
| Destination | Country, address format, contact and shipment instructions for the order. |
Coordinate packaging with surface finishing
Finished surfaces may need a different protection method from unfinished machined surfaces. Include anodizing, heat treatment, cosmetic restrictions and any special handling request in the same RFQ package. This lets the team consider the protection plan with the process sequence, rather than adding it after parts are complete.
For process context, read our guide to anodizing and heat treatment for CNC parts.
Export packaging can have destination-specific rules
When wood packaging is required, destination-country rules may apply. The International Plant Protection Convention maintains the official ISPM standards information, including the international framework commonly referenced for wood packaging material. Confirm the applicable shipping and customs requirements with the parties responsible for the shipment; they can vary by destination and product.
Include shipping details in the RFQ
International coordination is more efficient when the destination country and delivery requirement are known before quotation and order release. You do not need to decide every freight detail at the drawing stage, but provide the destination, commercial terms if already agreed, and any label or document constraints that affect packaging.
Make packaging part of the quality conversation
For a first order, a prototype, or a part with appearance-critical features, discuss packaging along with inspection expectations. ExactMach coordinates drawing-defined CNC milling, CNC turning, prototypes and custom parts around Shenzhen and Dongguan for international orders, including finishing and shipping coordination where required.