Logistics of photovoltaic panels: safety first

Renewable energy sources, especially photovoltaic panels, are gaining popularity in various forms - from warehouses and production facilities to residential purposes. As a result, companies in this sector are constantly looking for more efficient solutions for transport and storage. What factors should be considered in the logistics of solar panels? How can challenges be effectively managed?

Renewable energy sources, especially photovoltaic panels, are gaining popularity in various forms - from warehouses and production facilities to residential purposes. As a result, companies in this sector are constantly looking for more efficient solutions for transport and storage. What factors should be considered in the logistics of solar panels? How can challenges be effectively managed?

At Rohlig SUUS Logistics we have experience in managing the supply chain of photovoltaic panels. In our Czech branch, we provide warehousing services at our state-of-the-art facility in Brno and road transport (mainly FTL) from seaports to warehouses in one of the projects. We are also responsible for subsequent distribution to end users, including distributors and installers. 

Appropriate packaging standards

Since photovoltaic panels are used outdoors, it is obvious that they must be durable enough. However, it is noteworthy that these panels contain delicate components prone to damage during shipping and storage. Therefore, the packing process of solar panels is of the utmost importance. It is surprising that despite the critical need for robust packaging, there is no universal standard for these commodities. In light of this, we have developed our own set of standards to ensure the safety of photovoltaic panels.

• Modules are packed in a box horizontally or vertically along the long side.
• Pallets should be placed on a flat surface before unpacking.
• Two workers must always unpack the modules from the box.
• Always use both hands when handling the modules.
• Protection against shocks is provided by films, polystyrene, foamed polyethylene.
• The packages are labeled "FRAGILE".
• On the outside, shipments are marked with ADR product pictograms (UN numbers, safety signs, ADR documents - MSDS)

To ensure the safety of solar panels during transit, we also offer monitoring and insurance coverage for high-value shipments.

The biggest challenge when storing solar panels

Ensuring the safe storage of photovoltaic panels, which include solar batteries classified as ADR goods, requires compliance with specialized storage standards. The challenge lies in the ambiguous regulations governing their storage and also in the constantly changing legal environment in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, but also in Poland. Keeping up with these changes is essential to effectively adapt our warehouse processes to evolving requirements. In addition to our state-of-the-art facility in Brno, Rohlig SUUS Logistics also stores photovoltaic panels in Gdansk, among others.

Check out our comprehensive services for the photovoltaic sector:

•  transportation of safe and dangerous goods
• manipulation of all types of solar technology incl. emergency batteries, photovoltaic panels, structures and holders, accessories for photovoltaic panels (fuses, measuring devices, connecting cables)
• specialized delivery of larger shipments
• consolidation for complex orders
• customs services
• advice on packaging
• handling of shipments from/to countries outside the European Union
• shipment insurance
• archiving of transport documents
• provision of products and on-site handling, including provision of handling equipment