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Packaging Your Valuables Safely Since 1910
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FAQs
We often get asked a lot of questions about our services, products and memberships. With this in mind, we’ve put together an FAQs page, answering the most commonly asked questions we receive.
If your query hasn’t been answered in the FAQs below, please get in touch with us! You can fill in our contact form with details of your enquiry or call our offices on 01752 664345 to speak to a member of the team directly.
What is ISPM15?
ISPM15 or International Phytosanitary Measures 15 is an international standard for the treatment of wooden packaging. The standard was put in place in 2002, to help prevent the spread of pests (such as longhorn beetles, bark beetles and the pine wood nematode) via infested wood packaging material.
R. West & Son are fully compliant with ISPM15 regulations and are audited on a 6 monthly basis to ensure we continue to meet standards. As members of the UKWPMMP, we are able to produce ISPM15 certified packaging. We are also members of TIMCON, the Timber Packaging and Pallet Confederation.
You can learn more about ISPM15 by visiting the UK Wood Packaging Material Marking Programme website.
What is the difference between a packing crate and a packing case?
Packing cases or boxes (they are essentially the same thing) are solid on all sides. It surrounds the contents with timber cladding and is fully secure. Packing crates have slatted sides and top and solid base, leaving the contents fully visible and are most suitable for facilitating customs inspections, reducing the need for re-packaging after a thorough investigation!
Where would I get a shipping container?
Don’t panic, if you need a shipping container, we can source one on your behalf! We work with a number of trusted shipping companies and can help to arrange the transportation of your goods.
Our company exports delicate components abroad, can you help?
Yes, we can send virtually any item to any destination no matter how delicate or fragile. For example, we’ve sent sound recording equipment to Europe and have the expertise to package sculptures, liqueur bottles and fine china safely and securely.
We intend to relocate overseas; can you package large and expensive items?
Yes, we can! We’ve previously re-located entire companies to China and are experienced in this kind of work. We’re able to provide all of your moving and removal packaging services.
What are your delivery charges?
Generally, delivery is free within the Plymouth boundary. Outside of this area, a small charge applies. For UK delivery using our trusted hauliers or international shipping using one of our partner shipping companies, the delivery fee is dependent upon distance, the item being delivered, and the packaging used.
I have bought a large item from an auction, can you pack and send it to me?
Yes, we can send auction items to any destination in the UK or abroad.
Can you package antiques and fine art?
Yes, we can package fine art and antiques. We’re also able to package large, awkwardly shaped, delicate or highly valuable items. We will arrange the insurance and transportation on your behalf.
I have sold an item on an online auction site, can you package and deliver it for me?
Yes, we can send items sold via online auction anywhere in the world. We’ve sent a wide variety of items sold online for our customers, including a model ship to Sweden and a juke box to Russia.
Are your materials sourced from renewable sources?
Wherever possible, we source our timber from renewable sources.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
“Finding a local company who could manufacture packing cases to meet the recent ISPM15 timber packaging regulations for our aftersales department was high on our agenda. R. West & Son in Plymouth has successfully provided us with a reliable solution to this problem.”
GRANT HOOPER, HEAD OF MATERIALS & AFTERSALES, PRINCESS YACHTS INTERNATIONAL PLC
“When we made the decision to move our manufacturing facility to China, there were several issues that needed hands-on management. When it came to shipping the machinery and components, the R. West & Son team took full control of the move, from arranging the containers to the packaging and paperwork required to complete the move. This was one less headache to deal with. A good, all-round job and R. West & Son are thoroughly recommended to anyone else needing a similar service.”
STEVE BROADSTOCK, MANAGING DIRECTOR, BRITISH FLY REELS