Our Story
IM Export Services began in 2004 as a small idea between friends. Today, we support businesses across the UK and internationally with their export packing and shipping solutions.
With more than 20 years in the industry, we continue to focus on what matters most. Skilled people, reliable export packing, and practical solutions delivered with care and attention to detail.
Explore our timeline to see how the company has grown.
Our Journey
2004: Where it all began
IM Export Services Ltd or back then, Industrial Machines, was founded in 2004 by three friends Rob, Ben, and Paul, with years of industry manufacturing experience who started a company that offered export packing and containerising heavy industrial equipment.
2007: Expanding capabilities
After steady growth and an increase in large-scale projects, Industrial Machines moved into a larger 3,500 sq ft site. The company’s reputation started to grow and its services began to spread throughout the local manufacturing industry.
2009: Investment and growth
With new equipment and extra vehicles, the company’s operations and logistics processes improved, and by investing in staff training, the company had built a strong foundation for future growth.
2013: A new chapter
Co founder Rob Johnston took full ownership of Industrial Machines, transforming the business into IM Export Services. Now on a misstion, Rob continued to build and strengthen the company’s reputation by expanding its export packing services.
2020: Leadership and recognition
Despite the global crisis in 2020, the company’s reputation continued to grow, with the team landing some of our biggest projects within the manufacturing, defence, and engineering sectors, achieving one of the company’s biggest financial years for the business.
Joe Nolan, a key team member who had been with the company for over 15 years, was promoted to Director of Operations
2021: Growing demand
Despite the ongoing global challenges, IM Export Services saw one of its busiest years on record. Increased demand for industrial export packing led to greater production capacity and continued investment in new machinery.
2022: Supporting our team
IM Export Services introduced a new four-day working week, promoting a healthier work-life balance while maintaining the same high standard of service and productivity.
2025: Continuing to Grow
Today, IM Export Services continues to grow, hiring new staff members, investing in sustainable materials, and expanding its services to work on projects all over the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does IM Export Services offer?
We provide a wide range of export services, including bespoke timber case manufacturing, on-site and off-site export packing, secure storage, and container loading. Through our sister company, IM Freight Forwarding Ltd, we also arrange global shipping by road, sea, and air.
How can I get a quote?
For a free, no-obligation quote, simply get in touch with our team. You can contact us by phone or through our online enquiry form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
How long has IM Export Services been in business?
We’ve been supporting UK businesses since 2004, helping companies of all sizes pack, protect, and ship their goods safely around the world.
Do you work with specific industries?
We work across a wide range of sectors, from manufacturing and engineering to defence, aerospace, and automation. Whether you need one-off packing support or regular export projects, our team can help.
Do you offer storage or tracking?
We provide short- and long-term storage in our secure, CCTV-monitored facility. Tracking is also available for shipments arranged through IM Freight Forwarding Ltd, so you’ll always know where your goods are.
How do you make sure my goods arrive safely?
Every job is planned carefully. We design and build custom timber cases and crates, use ISPM 15-approved materials, and can apply foil or barrier protection to prevent damage during transit.
Are you certified to handle military or specialist projects?
Yes. We’re fully accredited under the Military Packager Approval Scheme (MPAS) and certified to ISO 9001:2015, as well as approved by the Forestry Commission (FC) for ISPM 15 heat-treated timber.
Can you handle large or heavy projects?
Yes. Our 50,000 sq ft facility in Redditch includes a production warehouse, storage space, and overhead lifting capacity of more than 20 tonnes, so we can safely pack and store heavy or oversized loads.
Need advice on exporting or packing goods?
Get in touch to see how we could help.