AIT delivers end-to-end solution for Tier 1 automotive supplier’s battery line expansion

Published on: Dec 16, 2025

Summary 

When a major global supplier of lithium-ion batteries needed to transport critical production lines from China to Malaysia, they turned to the automotive team at AIT Worldwide Logistics. The supply chain solution leader’s logistics experts designed a comprehensive plan that ensured the safe, on-time delivery of the Tier 1 automotive supplier’s multi-million-dollar equipment. 

CHALLENGE: Expanding operations into Malaysia

The client needed to relocate high-value, oversized machinery that required custom-fit packaging and moisture-proofing to protect sensitive components during transit. This equipment was critical to the expansion of their battery production line. 

Tight budget constraints and delivery timelines added complexity, as engineers were scheduled to meet the equipment upon arrival. Any delays would disrupt the installation schedule and impact production. 

Inland transport within Malaysia presented another challenge. Pedestrian overpasses along the route limited clearance to just 16.4 feet (5 meters), requiring specialized equipment and route planning to avoid damage and delays. 

Finally, the client emphasized the importance of sustainable packaging. Minimizing waste and deploying reusable materials were key priorities for their environmental goals. 

SOLUTION: End-to-end service including custom packaging

AIT’s comprehensive solution included conducting on-site surveys, designing custom-fit, moisture-proof wooden crates for the oversized machinery, and coordinating sea freight and inland transport across China and Malaysia.  

The team overcame clearance restrictions with low-loader trucks, provided escort services during heavy rains, and ensured consistent communication between regional offices.  

Protective custom packaging 

• Conducted on-site surveys across three factories in China
• Designed wooden crates for each out-of-gauge machine
• Integrated moisture-proofing and reinforced bases to protect heavy equipment during transit and unloading

Seamless global coordination 

• Close collaboration between AIT-Shanghai and AIT-Malaysia ensured real-time communication and pre-alerts
• A single APAC contact window reduced administrative burden and streamlined execution

Innovative transport strategies 

• Utilized a mix of high cube, open top, flat rack, over-height and over-weight containers to accommodate oversized cargo
• Deployed low-loader trucks in Malaysia to navigate height restrictions
• Provided escort services during heavy rain to safeguard cargo

Sustainability measures 

• Packaging designed to fit precisely, cutting material waste
• Reusable, high-quality plywood reduced environmental impact

AIT Difference Makers 

• Global reach with local expertise
• In-house customs clearance
• End-to-end service model for packaging, sea freight and inland transport
• Strategic partnership mindset 

RESULT: Successful, on-time delivery and a growing partnership  

With an end-to-end approach that safeguarded high-value equipment and minimized waste while meeting strict budget and timeline requirements, AIT’s automotive team earned praise from the client for “high standards and efficiency.”  

Additionally, the project’s successful execution positioned AIT as a core logistics service provider for the client’s ongoing expansion.  

Beyond intra-Asia relocations, AIT is already supporting the customer’s electric vehicle and high-voltage energy storage projects, including warehouse solutions in Brazil, Germany and the United States for major automotive original equipment manufacturer programs.