At the AIS Group, we understand that machinery is at the heart of your operation. When you need to install, remove or relocate machinery, every stage requires careful planning and execution. From a single machine installation to a complete production-line or factory relocation, we provide one coordinated service.
For businesses that rely on heavy-duty equipment, safe and efficient machinery handling is essential. Whether you’re installing new production machinery, relocating high-value assets, integrating automated systems or decommissioning equipment, a lot is riding on getting the process right the first time.
With more than five decades of experience handling complex industrial projects, AIS Group brings together specialist lifting, logistics, mechanical and electrical engineering and project management under one coordinated delivery model.
An integrated approach to complex machinery projects
AIS Group isn’t just a lifting contractor or a logistics provider. We provide turnkey support for machinery installation, relocation, decommissioning and factory moves, bringing together the specialist capabilities needed to manage the complete project.
Our approach begins with detailed planning. Project managers, engineers, riggers, electricians and other specialists work together to understand the machinery, site conditions, access requirements and operational constraints before work begins.
This matters when space is restricted, machinery is sensitive, or production downtime must be kept to a minimum. It also creates a clear point of accountability throughout the project, rather than splitting responsibility between different contractors.
What does the machinery installation process look like?
AIS Group has a turnkey approach to machinery installation. We can manage all stages of an installation project as a single joined-up process, tailored to your machinery and site.
1. Site survey and feasibility assessment
Every project starts with understanding what needs to move or be installed and the conditions it needs to move through. This can include assessing machinery dimensions and weight, headroom, lifting points, floor loading and utilities.
2. Engineering, RAMS and lift planning
The project team develops the necessary engineering and operational plans, including lift plans, route planning, risk assessments and method statements (RAMS), alongside CDM management where required.
3. Decommissioning and disconnection
For machine relocation, the process may need to begin with safe isolation and disconnection. Our mechanical and electrical teams can disconnect machinery and production lines, with equipment dismantled as required for safe handling and transport.
4. Dismantling, handling and transport
Industrial machinery can require specialist handling depending on its size, weight, sensitivity and location. We combine lifting with transport and logistics to move assets to their destination.
We can also coordinate cross-border transport for machinery installation across Europe and beyond.
5. Machinery positioning and installation
Once equipment reaches its destination, we position it accurately and safely. This can involve specialist lifting and controlled movement into confined spaces, followed by positioning, precision levelling and bolt-down.
6. Mechanical and electrical reconnection
Physical installation is only part of the process. Our in-house mechanical and electrical engineers can support machinery reassembly, electrical reconnection, control systems, power supplies and service connections.
7. Testing and commissioning
Before machinery returns to production, the installation needs to be checked and tested. We can work alongside customer engineering teams and OEM representatives to support testing, safety checks and commissioning.
8. Handover and documentation
The final stage is ensuring the project is properly documented, and the equipment is ready for operation. We provide relevant test results, sign-offs and other project documentation as required.
Choosing the right lifting method
No two machinery installations are the same. The appropriate lifting and handling solution depends on machinery weight and dimensions, access restrictions, floor conditions, headroom and the surrounding site environment.
AIS Group’s wholly owned fleet of specialist equipment includes:
- Hydraulic gantry systems: For controlled heavy lifting and positioning where conventional crane access is restricted.
- Jacking and skating systems: For controlled horizontal movement and positioning where space or access makes conventional handling difficult.
- Versa-Lifts and electric cranes: Providing controlled lifting and handling, including all-electric, non-marking equipment for sensitive environments.
- Pick-and-carry cranes: Offering flexible on-site lifting capability.
- Forklifts and mobile cranes: Used where appropriate for machinery handling, lifting and positioning.
More than just machinery installation
Machinery installation is often one part of a much larger industrial project. The AIS Group can support the wider lifecycle of machinery and production assets, including:
- Internal relocation: Moving machinery between bays, departments or areas within an existing facility.
- Factory moves: Coordinating the decommissioning, transport, installation and recommissioning of production assets.
- Storage: Secure short- and long-term storage for machinery awaiting installation, redeployment or onward movement.
- Disposal and recycling: Managing redundant assets through appropriate removal, recycling, resale or disposal routes.
- CDM and project management: Coordinating complex projects where multiple engineering, lifting and construction activities need to work together.
Installing automated machinery and robotics
Modern production environments increasingly rely on robotics and automated systems. Installing this equipment requires control and an understanding of how it interacts with the wider production line.
Our Group engineers can support robot installation and calibration, as well as integrating automated systems into existing production environments. This can be particularly valuable when machinery installation forms part of a wider production-line upgrade or factory reconfiguration.
Machinery installation across the UK and Europe
Industrial machinery projects increasingly cross geographical boundaries. Equipment may need to move between manufacturing facilities, be relocated internationally or be installed at a new production site overseas.
Through the wider AIS Group, we can manage projects across the UK, Europe and beyond, with specialist teams supporting cross-border machinery relocation, transport, installation and commissioning.
A team built on experience
Complex machinery projects depend on more than equipment. They require experienced people who understand how lifting, engineering, logistics, and installation must work together.
Our in-house teams are highly qualified across a wide range of disciplines, reflecting our commitment to investing in our workforce through ongoing training and professional development. This enables us to deploy the right combination of skills to meet each project’s requirements.
Safety is built into the process
Working with heavy machinery carries risks to people, equipment and the surrounding operation. At the AIS Group, safety is non-negotiable, from the initial site survey through to final commissioning.
From method statements and lift plans to daily briefings and PPE checks, we build safety into every step. With multiple accreditations, including Achilles and SafeContractor, clients can move forward with confidence. We also hold ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 certifications.
By integrating safety planning with engineering and project management, we can identify potential issues before work begins rather than addressing them once a project is already underway.
Plan your machinery installation project
From a single machine installation to a complete factory relocation, AIS Group brings together the lifting, logistics, mechanical and electrical engineering and project management capabilities needed to deliver the project.
Contact AIS Group to discuss your next machinery installation or relocation project.