Guide · Machinery
Choosing and buying packaging machinery without the usual traps — match the machine to your product and speed, vet the maker, and get it shipped and supported.
Match the machine to the job
Packaging machinery is specified by product, pack format, throughput and automation level — not by price first. Get those right and the shortlist of suitable machines is short.
Common machine types
| Type | What it does |
|---|
| Filling machine | Doses liquid, powder or granules into containers |
| Sealing / capping | Seals or caps filled containers |
| Form-fill-seal (pouch) | Forms, fills and seals pouches or sachets |
| Cartoning | Erects, fills and closes cartons |
| Shrink / wrapping | Wraps or shrink-bundles products |
| Labeling | Applies labels accurately at speed |
| Palletizing | Stacks finished cases onto pallets |
Vet the supplier
- Confirm they build the machine; request a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) video on your product if possible.
- Check spare-parts availability, manuals and remote support.
- Confirm voltage/frequency and CE (or your market's) compliance.
Shipping & import
Machinery is crated in ISPM-15 fumigated wood and braced for transit. Packaging machinery generally classifies under HS 8422 — confirm the exact subheading with your broker.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the right packaging machine?
Start from the product and pack format, then required speed (units/min) and automation level (semi vs fully automatic). Those three decide the machine class before brand or price.
What should I check on the supplier?
Confirm they manufacture the machine, ask for a factory acceptance test (FAT) video, check spare-parts availability and after-sales support, and confirm voltage/frequency and CE marking for your market.
Do packaging machines need special shipping?
Yes — machinery is crated in fumigated (ISPM-15) wood, braced against movement, and often shipped in containers or as break-bulk; confirm dimensions and weight for freight.
What HS code applies?
Packaging machinery generally falls under HS 8422; the exact subheading depends on the machine type. Confirm with your customs broker for duty and import requirements.
