Move Client – University of Massachusetts- Amherst, Polymer Science & Engineering department
Move Location – Amherst, Massachusetts
Move Timetable – May 2025
The lowdown
The University of Massachusetts-Amherst’s Science and Engineering department sought Labmovers.com’s assistance in importing an atomic layer deposition system from Finland. Manufactured by Beneq, the ALD—the TFS 200—costs $425,00.
From the Beneq website: The Beneq TFS 200 is a high‑precision coating machine used in research labs to apply ultra‑thin, even layers of material onto everything from silicon wafers to complex 3D structures or powders. It works by alternating chemical “pulses” (optionally with plasma) in a vacuum chamber to build up films one molecule layer at a time, ensuring exceptional uniformity.
Why it matters
Labmovers.com has decades of experience in shipping and receiving high-value equipment from overseas. Most university facilities managers and staff do not. We are also fluent in customs clearance and tariff codes.
The execution
We handled customs clearance paperwork using the proper harmonized tariff codes. This meant UMass didn’t have to pay $61,000 in taxes and duty fees. We retrieved the ALD from JFK airport in New York. So, there were no bonded storage fees charged. We delivered the ALD, uncrated it and delivered it to the Polymer Science & Engineering department, removing all debris from the crate.
The result
UMass received its ALD system safely and on schedule, with no surprise costs or delays. Labmovers.com’s experience with international logistics, customs clearance, and lab equipment handling ensured a smooth process from port pickup to final placement.
“We ordered a large piece of equipment from overseas that arrived in multiple heavy crates. It needed to be picked up from the airport, cleared through customs, and delivered directly to our university lab. I reached out to Jarrod at LabMovers.com—someone I’ve worked with before—and once again, he and his team came through. Jarrod coordinated with a broker to ensure we had the right paperwork on time, which helped us avoid extra charges. The crates were delivered quickly, safely, and without hassle. Communication was excellent throughout the process, and the whole team was professional and efficient. It’s rare to find a company that’s cost-effective and so easy to work with. That’s why we keep calling LabMovers.com.”
–Glenda L. Pons Polymer Science & Engineering Dept., University of Massachusetts-Amherst
