Secure Storage

At E Freight, our secure storage solutions go beyond basic warehousing—we provide tailored, safety-focused spaces for high-value, sensitive, or time-sensitive cargo. This case study details how we supported a leading European manufacturing client by storing 200+ industrial machinery parts (valued at €1.8 million) in our Rotterdam (Netherlands) facility for 3 months, ensuring zero damage, theft, or operational delays for their production line.

Our client is a Germany-based manufacturer of heavy industrial machinery, supplying equipment to factories across Europe and Asia. They faced a critical challenge: a 3-month gap between the production of machinery parts and the scheduled delivery to their Singapore factory (due to delayed factory expansion). Their core storage needs included:

1. Maximum Security: The parts (e.g., precision gears, hydraulic pumps, and electrical components) are high-value and prone to theft—requiring 24/7 protection.
2. Climate Control: Many components are sensitive to humidity and temperature fluctuations (e.g., electrical wiring can corrode in high humidity), so the storage space needed stable conditions.
3. Inventory Visibility: The client needed real-time access to inventory data (e.g., which parts are in stock, quantity checks) to align with their production timeline.
4. Damage Prevention: The parts are heavy (up to 500kg) and fragile—requiring specialized handling and storage to avoid cracks or misalignment.

The 200+ industrial machinery parts await transport to E Freight’s Rotterdam storage facility—each labeled with unique tracking codes for inventory management.

Storing industrial machinery parts comes with unique hurdles that standard warehouses often can’t address:

• Security Risks: High-value industrial parts are a target for theft, especially in busy port areas like Rotterdam. A single stolen part could delay the client’s production by weeks.
• Environmental Sensitivity: Rotterdam’s coastal climate brings high humidity (average 75–80% in winter) and temperature swings—both of which can damage precision components.
• Inventory Complexity: The parts come in 15+ different sizes and weights, requiring organized storage (e.g., heavy parts on ground-level racks, small components in locked cabinets) to avoid confusion and damage.
• Handling Risks: Moving 500kg parts with standard forklifts can lead to drops or collisions—needing specialized equipment and trained staff.

To meet the client’s needs, we activated our Rotterdam Secure Storage Facility—a purpose-built space for high-value, sensitive cargo—and designed a end-to-end safety plan. Here’s how we executed each step:

Our Rotterdam facility was prepped to address the client’s unique requirements:

• 24/7 Security Infrastructure: We deployed 360° CCTV cameras (with motion detection), biometric access control (only authorized E Freight staff and client representatives could enter), and a 24/7 on-site security team. The facility also has perimeter fencing with alarm systems to prevent unauthorized entry.
• Climate-Controlled Zone: We dedicated a 500㎡ zone with a commercial-grade HVAC system, set to a constant 20°C (68°F) and 45% humidity—monitored hourly via digital sensors. Any deviations trigger instant alerts to our storage team.
• Specialized Storage Racking: We installed heavy-duty steel racks (rated for 1,000kg per shelf) for large parts, and locked metal cabinets for small, high-value components (e.g., electrical sensors). Each rack and cabinet was labeled with QR codes linked to our inventory system.

The climate-controlled zone in our Rotterdam facility—equipped with heavy-duty racks, CCTV cameras, and humidity sensors—ready for the client’s machinery parts.

Before storage, we ensured the parts arrived at our facility in perfect condition:

• Specialized Transport: We used E Freight’s fleet of flatbed trucks with air suspension (to minimize vibration) and hydraulic lifts (for safe loading/unloading of heavy parts). Each truck was escorted by a security guard to prevent theft during transit.
• Pre-Storage Inspection: Upon arrival, our team conducted a detailed inspection of each part—cross-referencing with the client’s delivery list, checking for damage, and scanning QR codes to log items into our inventory system. The client received a digital inspection report within 24 hours.

During the 3-month storage period, we prioritized constant security and transparency:

• Real-Time Inventory Tracking: The client accessed our cloud-based inventory portal 24/7, where they could view:
• Current stock levels (e.g., “15 hydraulic pumps in stock").
• Location of each part (e.g., “Rack B, Shelf 3").
• Inspection logs (e.g., “Last checked: October 5, 2024—no damage").
• Regular Maintenance Checks: Our team conducted weekly inspections of all parts—checking for corrosion, dust buildup, or shifting (for heavy parts). Any issues were resolved immediately (e.g., cleaning dust off electrical components) and reported to the client.
• Restricted Access: Only 3 authorized E Freight staff (trained in industrial part handling) and 2 client representatives had access to the storage zone. All entries/exits were logged in our security system, with timestamps and biometric records.

When the client’s Singapore factory was ready, we ensured a seamless handover:

• Pre-Delivery Inspection: We conducted a final 360° inspection of all parts, confirming no damage or loss. The client received a digital report to verify before shipment.
• Secure Transport to Port: We used the same specialized flatbed trucks to transport the parts to Rotterdam Port, with security escorts and real-time GPS tracking.
• Customs & Shipment Coordination: Our compliance team handled all export documentation (e.g., customs declarations, certificates of origin) to ensure the parts cleared Rotterdam and Singapore customs without delays. The parts were loaded onto a E Freight-chartered sea vessel with climate-controlled cargo holds—matching the storage facility’s conditions.

E Freight staff load the industrial machinery parts onto a flatbed truck—bound for Rotterdam Port and eventual delivery to the client’s Singapore factory.

“E Freight’s secure storage solution was a game-changer for our business. We were worried about storing high-value parts for 3 months, but their facility’s security, climate control, and real-time tracking gave us total peace of mind. Every part arrived in Singapore in perfect condition, and we didn’t face a single production delay. Their team was responsive—answering our inventory checks at any hour. We’ll use E Freight’s secure storage for all future gap periods."

— Maria Schmidt, Supply Chain Manager, [Client’s Manufacturing Company]

• Specialized Facilities: Our 5 global secure storage facilities (Rotterdam, Dubai, Singapore, New York, and Shanghai) are purpose-built for high-value, sensitive cargo—with 24/7 security, climate control, and specialized racking.
• Trained Team: All E Freight storage staff are certified in handling industrial parts, luxury goods, and fragile cargo—ensuring no damage during storage or transport.
• End-to-End Visibility: Our cloud-based inventory portal lets you track your cargo 24/7—from storage to delivery—with real-time updates and inspection logs.
• Customizable Solutions: We tailor storage plans to your cargo’s needs (e.g., longer storage periods, temperature adjustments, extra security) so you only pay for what you need.

Need Secure Storage for Your Cargo?

Contact E Freight’s secure storage team today for a free facility tour (in-person or virtual) and a customized quote. We support industries including manufacturing, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and luxury goods.