When your moisture tester needs repair, calibration or routine service, properly preparing the instrument for shipment is an important first step. Dickey-john GAC moisture testers are precision instruments, so simply placing the unit in a standard shipping box may not provide enough protection during transit. The tester should be packed in the appropriate custom shipping box and foam inserts, and the load cell locking brackets should be secured before transportation. In the video above, Sean from Seedburo Equipment Company walks through the process for preparing a GAC moisture tester for shipment to AgPoint Precision for service. This process applies to the GAC2700UGMA, GAC2700AGRI, GAC2500UGMA and GAC 2500AGRI. Why Is Proper Packaging Important When Shipping a GAC Moisture Tester? A GAC moisture tester contains sensitive components designed to provide accurate grain moisture measurements. Before the tester travels through UPS, FedEx or another carrier, it should be secured so the instrument cannot shift excessively inside the box. The custom GAC shipping box uses fitted foam inserts to keep the tester and its accessories properly positioned during transportation. In the video, Sean explains that the tester should have a snug fit and should not move around inside the box. What Do You Need to Ship a GAC Moisture Tester for Service? Before packing the tester, gather: The correct GAC shipping box Custom foam inserts Protective plastic bag Allen key Packing tape Sample cup Power cord What If You No Longer Have the Original GAC Shipping Box? If the original box or foam inserts were discarded, contact Seedburo or AgPoint before shipping the instrument. A replacement shipping box with the appropriate custom foam can be provided for an additional cost. Using the correct packaging helps protect the investment and reduce the risk of shipping-related damage. Step 1: Remove the Sample Cup and Power Cord Begin by removing the sample cup from the moisture tester and unplugging the power cord. Set both components aside. They will be packed separately inside the custom foam later in the process. Step 2: Lock the Load Cell Before Shipping One of the most important steps is securing the load cell locking brackets before transporting the moisture tester. The locking mechanism is located underneath the instrument. To secure it: Carefully place the tester on its back. Locate the load cell locking bracket. Loosen the Allen screw holding the bracket in place. Move the bracket from the operating position into the locked position. Reinstall the Allen screw into the threaded hole. Tighten it securely with the Allen key. Once the locking bracket is secured, return the tester to its upright position. Step 3: Wrap the Moisture Tester Place the protective plastic bag around the tester. Sean recommends gathering the excess plastic to one side and tucking it in so the tester remains neatly protected before placing it into the foam insert. Step 4: Place the Tester Into the Custom Foam Position the moisture tester inside the bottom foam insert in the proper orientation. When correctly installed, the tester should fit snugly inside the packaging. Place the sample cup in its designated foam cutout and coil the power cord so it can be securely positioned alongside the instrument. Step 5: Install the Top Foam and Seal the Box Place the top custom foam insert over the tester. Make sure the Allen key is returned to its designated location so it stays with the instrument. Close the shipping box and secure the top with several strips of packing tape. Your moisture tester is then ready to be shipped for service. Need Your GAC Moisture Tester Serviced? AgPoint Precision, a Seedburo company, provides professional service support for grain, feed and seed testing equipment. Whether your moisture tester needs troubleshooting, repair, calibration or routine service, AgPoint's experienced technicians can help get your equipment back into operation. AgPoint service capabilities include: Equipment diagnostics Repairs Calibration Preventive service Technical support Replacement shipping boxes and packaging assistance Minimize Downtime With AgPoint's Rental Fleet Sending a moisture tester out for service does not necessarily mean your testing operation needs to stop. AgPoint maintains a rental fleet of testing equipment that can help keep your operation running while your unit is being serviced. Rental equipment can be especially valuable during: Harvest Peak receiving periods Seasonal testing Unexpected equipment failures Scheduled calibration or service If downtime would interrupt your grain receiving or testing workflow, ask the AgPoint team about rental availability when scheduling your service. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need to lock the load cell before shipping a GAC moisture tester? Yes. Before transporting the tester, the load cell locking bracket should be moved into its locked position to help protect the instrument during shipment. Can I ship my GAC moisture tester without the original box? If you no longer have the correct shipping box and custom foam, contact Seedburo or AgPoint before sending the tester. Replacement packaging is available for an additional cost. Can AgPoint repair and calibrate GAC moisture testers? AgPoint provides service, repair and calibration support for grain testing equipment, including GAC moisture testers. Can I rent a moisture tester while mine is being serviced? AgPoint maintains a rental fleet to help customers reduce downtime while equipment is being serviced. Rental availability can vary, so contact the AgPoint team when arranging your service. Who should I contact if I have questions about packing my tester? Contact Seedburo at 312-738-3700 for help with shipping preparation, replacement packaging or service questions.
