Lab container logistics – transport, siting, connection

Lab-container logistics comprises four phases: site analysis (access, foundation, utility connections), transport planning (vehicle selection, permits, route), siting (crane, alignment, bolting) and commissioning (utilities connection, system testing, SAT, induction). Each phase is documented with a checklist and protocol.

From the Albstadt works we reach sites in Stuttgart (1.5 h), Munich (2.5 h), Frankfurt (2.5 h) and Zurich (2 h) via the A81 on the same day — without overnight logistics. For abnormal loads (>2.55 m width) we organise special permits and police escort. Transport planning starts in parallel with manufacturing, not only after works acceptance.

Turnkey handover covers: structural stability certificate, electrical testing to VDE 0100-600, ventilation commissioning with volume-flow measurement, utilities-connection pressure test, leak testing (BSL-3/GMP), SAT protocol and user induction. All protocols are issued as part of the handover documentation.

Preparation and planning

Every transport begins with careful planning. We analyse the destination, check access routes and identify possible obstacles. For abnormal loads or overwidth movements we obtain the required permits and coordinate police escorts where necessary.

At the same time we prepare the siting location. We produce foundation plans, clarify utility connections (power, water, drainage, gases if required) and coordinate with local utilities. So that on delivery everything is ready for rapid commissioning.

Transport and loading

Loading is carried out with specialist cranes that lift the container safely onto the transport vehicle. Our containers are optimised for transport and have standardised lifting eyes and forklift pockets. During transport the container is secured against shifting and damage.

For road transport we use low-loaders or container chassis, depending on the size and weight of the container. For standard containers (up to 2.55 m width) regular HGV transport is possible; for wider units we organise abnormal loads with the corresponding permits.

Siting on site

On arrival the container is unloaded with a mobile crane and positioned on the prepared foundation. Our installation teams align the container exactly and secure it against movement. For multi-module plants the individual modules are connected and sealed.

After siting, connection to the local infrastructure follows. Our electricians and installers connect the container to the power supply, connect water and drainage lines and establish the connection to any gas supplies.

We then commission all technical systems. We check the ventilation plant, test the electrical systems and inspect the utilities supply. All tests are documented and issued to the customer as part of the handover documentation.

User induction

Before we hand over the laboratory, we induct your staff in the operation of all systems. We explain the ventilation controls, show the safety equipment and answer all questions. You can then put your new laboratory to productive use immediately.

Siting a lab container is not always straightforward. Tight access, limited space or difficult ground conditions present particular demands. Our specialists have, however, already mastered a wide range of situations:

• Siting in courtyards with limited crane access
• Positioning on roofs of existing buildings
• Installation in cleanrooms or under confined space conditions
• Siting in remote areas without a paved access road
• Installation during ongoing operation in existing plants
• Temporary siting with later relocation

Speak to us if you have a particular siting situation. Together we will find a solution that works.

A solid foundation is the basis for a stable and durable lab container. Depending on ground conditions and usage requirements we recommend various foundation solutions:

Pad foundations: The most economical solution on load-bearing ground. Concrete pads at the container corners and under load-bearing walls are sufficient for secure siting.

Strip foundations: For higher loads or less load-bearing ground, continuous concrete strips provide additional stability.

Foundation slab: The most substantial solution, ideal for permanent installations or where a continuous undercroft for plant is required.

Screw piles: A fast and reversible alternative, particularly suitable for temporary siting or where concrete works are not desired.

Our lab containers are in use worldwide — from the Arctic to tropical regions, from research stations in the desert to mobile laboratories on ships. For international deliveries we organise complete transport including all required documents.

We handle customs formalities, prepare the necessary transport documents and coordinate with local partners at destination. Our containers are optimised for international transport and meet all requirements of the ISO standards for freight containers.

On request our technicians accompany the container to destination and take over siting and commissioning on site.

BSL-3 and GMP containers require special transport and siting protocols. For pharma and biotech lab containers we document cleanroom integrity during transport and SAT on site. H2 and battery test laboratories need ATEX-conformant transport preparation to EN 60079 and a separate ignition-source check before commissioning.

Commissioning covers ventilation testing to DIN 1946-7, differential-pressure measurement for BSL-3 (typically −25/−50 Pa), electrical testing to VDE and utilities-connection pressure test. All tests are recorded and provided as part of the handover documentation for ISO 17025 or GMP audits.