The ESSENTIAL Guide to Sending an Engine on a Pallet

Did You Know? Engines are one of the most popular items shipped through a pallet network... But despite engines being shipped so frequently, people aren't always sure how to package them correctly. 

Engines come with very specific safety rules. They’re heavy, often awkwardly shaped, and can contain residual fluids if they haven’t been prepared properly. When those rules aren’t followed, it can lead to leaks, safety risks at depots, damaged trailers, refused collections and extra charges.

This guide explains how to prepare and secure an engine for pallet delivery, what our drivers will check on collection, and how to avoid delays or failed collections.

Let’s get into it!

Can I send an engine on a pallet?

Yes! Engines and car parts are some of the most commonly shipped items through our pallet network.

They can be transported safely, but only when specific preparation rules are followed.

Because engines are heavy and may contain residual fluids, they are inspected on collection. If an engine does not meet the required standard, it will not be collected or delivered.

Preparing your engine for shipping

Drain all fluids completely

This is the single biggest cause of refused collections.

All engines must be fully drained before collection, in line with pallet network rules. This includes:

• Engine oil
• Fuel
• Coolant
• Water

Even small amounts of remaining fluid can leak once the engine is lifted or tilted, creating slip hazards and contamination risks.

After draining, place the engine on absorbent material and allow enough time for any remaining liquid to escape. Leaving the engine to stand for several hours, or overnight, is strongly recommended.

Our drivers inspect engine pallets on collection. If there is any sign of leakage, the pallet will be refused and a failed collection may still be chargeable.

Clean, seal and protect the engine

Once the engine is fully drained, it should be prepared properly for transit.

Start by cleaning the engine externally. Removing excess oil, grease and debris reduces contamination risk and allows the driver to inspect the engine safely.

All exposed openings and ports must then be sealed to prevent dirt or water ingress. This should be done using:

• Proper threaded plugs or caps where available
• High-quality tape
• Plastic sheeting secured firmly in place

Vulnerable components should also be protected. We strongly recommend covering items such as sensors, wiring looms, pulleys and turbo inlets using foam padding or bubble wrap, secured so it cannot come loose during handling.

Securing the engine to a pallet

Choosing the right pallet and positioning

Engines must be placed on a strong, sound, four-way entry wooden pallet that is rated for the engine’s weight.

The engine should sit centrally on the pallet, with at least three inches of clear space on all sides. Nothing should overhang the pallet edges. Engines that overhang create a handling risk and will be refused.

Before positioning the engine, place oil-absorbent mats or similar materials on the pallet base. This provides an extra layer of protection in case any residual drips occur.

Preventing movement during transit

Engines must not be able to slide or shift during their journey.

Use timber blocks or chocks to brace the engine and improve stability. The engine must then be secured to the pallet using one of the following:

• At least two heavy-duty ratchet straps, or
• Machine-applied steel banding

These should be tightened sufficiently so the engine cannot move or tip.

Rope, tape or shrink wrap must never be used as the primary securing method. Shrink wrap can be used as secondary protection only.

Shrink wrap and driver checks

Shrink wrap helps keep components together and reduce surface damage, but it does not replace proper strapping or banding.

If shrink wrapping the engine:

• Apply multiple layers
• Wrap the engine and pallet together
• Always leave the dipstick accessible

On collection, the driver must be able to check the oil level. If the dipstick cannot be accessed, the engine may be refused.

Why draining engines matters

Leaking oil, fuel or coolant creates serious safety hazards at depots, damages trailers and other freight, and requires clean-up before the pallet can continue its journey.

If your pallet leaks:

• Clean-up charges may apply
• The engine will not be delivered until it is safe to move
• Delays are unavoidable

Taking the time to prepare the engine properly keeps your shipment moving and avoids unnecessary cost.

Final checks before booking

Before booking your engine pallet delivery, take a moment to confirm:

• All fluids have been fully drained
• The engine is clean externally
• All openings are sealed
• Vulnerable components are protected
• The pallet is strong enough for the weight
• The engine is centred with no overhang
• Absorbent material is in place
• Ratchet straps or steel banding are fitted
• The dipstick is accessible

As with all pallet deliveries, also make sure there is hard-standing ground at both collection and delivery. Pallet trucks cannot operate on gravel, grass or loose surfaces.

TIP: Our help page has all the details you need to know before sending an engine.

Final Thoughts

Once you are confident that your engine is packed safely & correctly, you can finally look for a reliable engine pallet courier that will transport it to your desired address. 

The cost of engine pallet delivery depends on the pallet size, weight and destination. At PalletOnline, you can get a free and instant quote for your engine shipment.

We offer some of the most competitive engine delivery rates in the industry, combined with reliable service and fast transit through our trusted pallet network.

As always, if you have any questions or second thoughts before booking your engine delivery, our Support team are happy to help.