Moving a CMM: The Process, Risks and Common Mistakes

Moving a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is a routine requirement for many manufacturers. Whether you’re reorganising an inspection department, expanding into a new facility or relocating equipment between sites, there will often come a point where a CMM needs to be moved.

One of the biggest misconceptions we encounter is that if a CMM arrives at its new location undamaged, the move has been successful.

In reality, the move is only complete once the machine has been recommissioned, reverified and returned to production with confidence in its measurement capability.

Preparation Is Everything

Good preparation is often the difference between a smooth relocation and an unnecessarily complicated one.

Before any transportation takes place, the machine should be properly prepared and secured. This typically includes removing probes and accessories, fitting transport brackets and securing all moving elements of the machine.

It is also sensible to assess and document the machine’s condition before the move begins. This creates a useful benchmark during recommissioning and provides confidence that everything is performing as expected once the machine is reinstalled.

Many modern CMMs utilise air bearings and highly sensitive mechanical components, which means preparation should never be treated as an afterthought. Taking the time to secure the machine correctly before transport helps protect both the equipment and the accuracy it is designed to deliver.

Moving the Machine

The transportation stage is where most relocation risks occur.

CMMs are often large, heavy machines with granite structures that must be supported correctly throughout the move. Using inappropriate lifting equipment or poor handling techniques can result in costly damage and unnecessary downtime.

Before a move takes place, it’s important to understand:

• The weight of the machine
• Suitable lifting equipment
• Access routes and site restrictions
• Floor loading requirements
• Transportation and handling arrangements

At Status Metrology, we typically use machine skates and forklift trucks when relocating CMMs, as these provide stability and control throughout the process.

Planning the route is equally important. Doorways, floor surfaces, tight corners and loading areas can all affect how straightforward a relocation becomes on the day. Identifying these challenges in advance helps avoid delays and reduces risk throughout the move.

The New Location Matters

One of the most common mistakes manufacturers make is focusing entirely on moving the machine and giving less attention to where it will be installed.

A CMM’s environment has a direct impact on its performance.

Before installation, factors such as floor stability, vibration, temperature variation and available space should all be assessed. A machine that performs reliably in one location may not achieve the same results if the new environment is unsuitable.

This doesn’t mean relocation is difficult. It simply means the new location should be considered as carefully as the move itself.

The physical move may only take a day. Ensuring the machine can perform correctly in its new environment often requires far more consideration.

Does a CMM Need Reverification After a Move?

Yes.

Whether a machine has been moved across a facility or transported to a new site, it should always undergo reverification before measurements are relied upon.

Relocation can affect machine geometry, levelling and overall performance. Returning a machine directly to production without reverification introduces unnecessary risk and can undermine confidence in measurement results.

Depending on the machine and customer requirements, recalibration may also form part of the recommissioning process.

The important point is that measurement capability should always be confirmed before inspection activities resume.

Common Mistakes During CMM Relocations

Most relocation projects run smoothly when they are properly planned.

Where issues do occur, they are often linked to a handful of common mistakes:

• Using inappropriate lifting equipment
• Failing to secure the machine correctly for transport
• Underestimating access restrictions
• Not assessing the suitability of the new location
• Returning the machine to production before reverification

Fortunately, all of these risks can be managed through proper planning and specialist support.

Why Involve a Specialist?

Moving a CMM is more than simply transporting equipment from one location to another.

A successful relocation involves preparation, decommissioning, transportation, installation, levelling, reverification and, where required, recalibration.

An experienced provider of CMM relocation services can help coordinate the entire process, minimise downtime and ensure the machine returns to production performing as expected.

For many manufacturers, that peace of mind is just as valuable as the move itself.

Planning a CMM Relocation?

At Status Metrology, we support manufacturers with every stage of the CMM relocation process, from initial planning through to installation, reverification and ongoing support.

Whether you’re moving a single machine across a facility or relocating an entire inspection department, our team has the experience to ensure the process runs smoothly, efficiently and with minimal disruption to production.

If you’re planning a CMM relocation and would like advice on the best approach, learn more about our CMM moving services or contact the Status Metrology team to discuss your requirements.