KD Packing: How OEM Shipping Cuts Freight Costs

What knock-down packing means

knock-down, usually shortened to KD, means the rack is shipped as a flat bundle of posts, shelf supports, top and bottom frames, plus a bag of fasteners. The customer assembles it on site with basic hand tools. The product that arrives is the same product, only the air has been taken out of the container.

Why freight is often the biggest line item

A 40 pan rack is mostly empty space. Shipping it assembled means paying ocean freight on air, and this kind of cargo is charged on volume. Reducing the packed volume is therefore the single most effective way to lower the landed cost of bulky foodservice equipment.

How many racks fit in a container

Numbers depend on rack size, tube gauge and carton dimensions. Ask us for a container loading plan for the exact model you plan to order.

What arrives in the carton

• Top and bottom frames, pre welded and pre drilled.

• Posts, cut to length with mounting holes.

• Shelf supports or complete shelf assemblies.

• Caster set, bolts, washers and an assembly drawing.

• Optional pan stops and spare fasteners.

Assembly time and tools

A 20 pan rack typically assembles in 20 to 30 minutes with two people and standard hand tools: a wrench or socket set, a rubber mallet and a level. No welding and no machining are needed, and no special skill is required beyond reading a drawing. Most importers assemble in the warehouse before delivery, or deliver flat-packed and let the end user assemble on site.

Quality is not compromised

The frame geometry, tube gauge, welds and coating are identical to the assembled version, because the knocked down rack is the same rack. Frame joints bolt into pre welded inserts rather than thin sheet, so the assembled rack holds its square. Each bundle includes an assembly drawing matched to the order, and we can supply a short assembly video for the model you buy.

When assembled shipping still wins

• Small orders where assembly labour costs more than the freight difference.

• Customers without warehouse space or staff for assembly.

• Racks that must be used immediately on arrival.

• Mixed containers that are already close to the weight limit.

Request a load plan

Send us the model, quantity and destination port. We will return a container loading plan, packed dimensions and carton weight, so you can compare true landed cost before you place the order.

Talk to Our Team

Building or sourcing racks, shelving or carts for your operation? IEQUIPMENT supplies aluminum and stainless steel equipment as OEM, ODM and knock-down (KD) programs, shipped in containers from Shanghai or Ningbo (FOB/CIF). Browse our bun pan racks or contact our team with your spec.