Customised container production - from design to completion

Table of contents

In today's industrial and logistical reality, flexibility and customisation are becoming key assets. Standard storage and transport containers often do not meet all requirements - whether in terms of dimensions, load capacity or integration into warehouse systems. The solution is production customised containers - the process whereby the customer receives a product that is perfectly tailored to their needs. Below, we take a step-by-step look at the entire spectrum of this process - from consultation and design to delivery and after-sales support.

Why order bespoke containers?

Tailoring to specific goods and warehouse processes

Each product range has its own requirements: dimensions, shapes, pressure sensitivity, ventilation or protection needs. A standard container or bin can either be too large, leading to a loss of space and security, or too small, forcing additional handling. By ordering a customised container, the customer can:

  • select precise dimensions (length, width, height) to fit pallets, racks and internal routes,
  • take into account the specifics of material flows (e.g. goods inserted from a particular side),
  • optimise storage space by eliminating „dead space”.

Increasing safety and reducing losses

A container that is perfectly adapted to the goods reduces the play between elements, reducing the risk of cargo movement and damage during transport or handling. In addition, designed structures can incorporate reinforcing elements, cushioning, safety handles, which have an impact:

  • less mechanical damage,
  • reducing losses and shortages,
  • better protection of sensitive components (e.g. electronics, glass, delicate components).

Facilitating transport and handling

A container designed from the ground up can be optimised for transport and logistical handling:

  • proper ears, hooks, handles - so that it can be easily gripped by a trolley, crane or conveyor,
  • mobility (e.g. feet, forklift slots, wheels),
  • designs that allow stacking, folding or stacking - making transport and empty storage more efficient.

Possibility of integration with racking systems and automation

Modern warehouses are moving towards full automation, the use of robots (AGVs, AMRs) and integration with WMS/WES systems. If the container:

  • has dimensions compatible with the racking channels,
  • is equipped with elements that facilitate interaction with conveyors, rollers, sensors,
  • has a structure designed for automation (e.g. corners, security, stability) - then logistics processes can run faster, with less worker intervention and less risk of collision.

Manufacturing stages of a bespoke container - how does it work at DAJANO?

The flowchart below describes the sequence of steps that a customised container project should follow - with an emphasis on quality, communication with the client and implementation in line with expectations.

  1. Consultation and analysis of customer needs
    The first step is to talk to the client - gathering requirements, goods specifications, working environment, transport and storage conditions. We give the customer a questionnaire or checklist to help define: dimensions, load capacity, shapes, loads, environmental conditions (humidity, temperature, chemicals) and integration with other systems.
  2. Development of technical design and visualisation
    Based on the data, a 2D / 3D design of the container is created, often in CAD software. The customer receives visualisations and technical drawings, and can make comments or modifications - this is an iterative stage.
  3. Quotation and acceptance of technical parameters
    Once the technical design is accepted, we proceed to a quote - materials, machining, coatings, additives. Once the terms are accepted (price, deadline, quantity), a contract or production order is signed.
  4. Production - cutting, welding, powder coating
    In the production phase, the raw material (steel sheet, profile parts) is prepared: laser cutting, bending, stamping. The components are then welded, assembled and assembled. Assembly is followed by surface treatment (grinding, deburring) and finally powder coating or other protective finishes.
  5. Quality testing and control of compliance with standards
    Each finished container undergoes dimensional inspection, weld tests, load bearing capacity, stability and possible mechanical tests. Where necessary, tests for compliance with industry standards and customer specifications are carried out.
  6. Packaging, delivery and after-sales support
    Containers are packed, loading is organised according to transport conditions. 

 

Expert comment:

„When designing bespoke metal containers, the most important thing is clear guidance from the customer. Our customers often provide drawings where not all dimensions are specified. When modelling the containers in Solidowrks, our technologists have to be in constant contact with the customer so that all dimensions are complete, Good documentation is essential and saves time for the customer and our specialists.”
- Kamil Chenczke, DAJANO Construction Department

 

What can be personalised in the container?

One of the biggest advantages of bespoke manufacturing is the wide range of modifications that can be made to ensure that the final product exactly meets the customer's needs.

Dimensions and load capacity

The most commonly adjusted parameters: length, width, height. In addition, refinements are made to carrying capacity -1,000 kg or 1,500 kg - depending on the intended load and conditions of use. Additional reinforcements (profiles) can be added to the containers to increase the load capacity or to keep the structure lean.

Type of floor (wooden, steel)

Depending on the type of load, the following can be used:

  • wooden flooring (e.g. plywood, boards) - for easier cushioning and friendlier contact with delicate goods,
  • steel flooring - more durable, abrasion-resistant, moisture-resistant,
  • perforated or grating surfaces - where ventilation or drainage is required.

Flaps, doors, ears, catches

A bespoke container can have different functional elements:

  • flaps or doors with locks, hinges,
  • ears and handles for manual lifting, trolleys or cranes,
  • hooks, hooks for suspension, lashing, handling.

Foldable and stackable

To save storage and transport space, it can be designed:

  • folding containers (folding side walls),
  • stackable structures (when empty, they can be stacked or stacked with extensions).

Powder coating in a specific colour or with the customer's logo

Protective coatings are not only a protective layer, but also an element of identification. Can be ordered:

  • colour compatible with company colours,
  • logo, lettering on plate (e.g. stock number, SKU or serial number) printed or laser-embossed,
  • special coatings (anti-corrosive, chemically resistant paints, epoxy coatings).

Industries that make most use of bespoke containers

Some sectors particularly benefit from the opportunity to create a dedicated container that fits perfectly with the nature of their operation.

Automotive

In the automotive industry, there are parts with different dimensions, unusual shapes, which require precise storage and transport. Containers adapted to the components (e.g. bodywork, rubber parts, small parts) significantly reduce damage and improve picking.

Automotive gitterboxes 👈

Agriculture

Seasonal produce, fluctuating volumes, the need for protection from the weather - durable, easy-to-clean and moisture-resistant containers are important for agriculture. Adapting containers to the specific characteristics of agricultural produce (e.g. delicate fruit) avoids losses.

Gitterboxes for agriculture👈

Construction

Building materials - heavy, bulky or customised - require robust structures. Metal containers with reinforcements and a high load capacity are perfect for this sector.

Construction gitterboxes👈

E-commerce warehouses

E-commerce is characterised by a large number of SKUs, fast shipping speeds and the need for flexibility. Dedicated containers for parcel complexation, for pick zones, for returns (reverse logistics) speed up processes and reduce errors.

Storage gitterboxes 👈

Transport

Transport companies often need containers that fit perfectly into the loading space of trailers or containers. Special containers (of a specific size, stacked design) allow better utilisation of the transport space.

Transport gitterboxes 👈

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