Logo Utz Group

Custom workpiece carriers

Precision component holders for logistics and production

Transport solutions for your exact needs

Tailored workpiece carriers from Utz are crafted to ensure safe storage, seamless handling, and optimal integration with your automated processes. Built with durability and sustainability in mind, they protect your components while improving overall operational efficiency.

Why choose our workpiece carriers?

1. Precision and protection

  • Custom-fit design: Each carrier is molded with precision to securely hold parts.
  • Damage prevention: Protects against scratches, dust, and contamination during transport and storage.

2. Built for modern automation

  • Compatible with robotic handling and conveyor systems.
  • Nestable and stackable designs for efficient space use.
  • Customizable for cleanroom environments.

3. Sustainability with every use

  • Reusable and designed for closed-loop systems.
  • Made from recyclable or ESD-safe materials.

Tailored to your needs

Thermoforming vs injection molding

We offer two advanced manufacturing solutions for component holders to meet a wide range of project needs: thermoforming and injection molding.

Each method offers distinct advantages depending on your project’s specific needs, such as design complexity, production volume, and material requirements. However, it’s not always straightforward to determine which process is the best fit for your application.

Contact us to find the right manufacturing solution for your project

Injection Molding

Our injection-molded component holders are precision-engineered for durability and intricate designs. This process allows for high customization with complex geometries and offers exceptional structural integrity. Injection molding is an optimal choice for projects requiring consistency across large production volumes.

Thermoforming

Thermoformed component holders are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for high-speed production and cost-efficient applications. This process is better suited for projects that demand thinner materials and quick prototyping.

Plastic granulate used to manufacture trays

Material options for every environment

Our materials are designed for durability and performance, featuring temperature resistance, abrasion resistance, fiber reinforcement, and spring-action properties. Thickness options range from 1.5 mm to 10 mm, ensuring versatility for a variety of applications.

  • Virgin materials: High-quality, pure materials like ABS, PE, or PC, offering superior strength and durability for demanding applications.
  • Utz Industrial Compound:UIC® is a sustainable option made from recycled materials, reducing environmental impact while maintaining excellent performance.
  • Conductive/ESD-safe materials: Designed for applications requiring electrostatic protection, ensuring safety and functionality in sensitive environments.

Customization options

  • Sizes: Options range from small units (100 x 80 mm) to large carriers (up to 2000 x 1200 mm).
  • Stacking/Nesting features: Designed with feet, ribs, or interlocking corners for secure stacking. Rotate 180 degrees to save up to 80% space during transport.
  • Identification add-ons:RFID chips, barcodes, in-mold labels, label pockets, or laser engraving for easy tracking and organization.
  • Design flexibility: Customize colors, branding, and anti-twist solutions to fit into your processes. Use co-extruded color strips for clear marking or create custom strips to suit your needs.
  • Accessories: Range of accessories include lids, covers, inserts, and antistatic foam for additional protection and functionality.
  • Handling: Designed with ergonomic grips, robotic pick points, and manual handling zones for easy use. Includes handle slots, recessed grips, and secure closures for convenience.
  • Additional elements: Add durable plastic or metal mounting components designed to ensure a secure and precise fit, enhancing stability and ease of installation for various applications.

Built for automation & robotics

Utz workpiece carriers are designed to integrate seamlessly with automated lines, robotic handling systems, and conveyor processes, ensuring precision and efficiency in intralogistics and manufacturing.

Benefits to operations

  • Efficiency: Automation reduces manual intervention, increasing throughput.
  • Error reduction: Precise design minimizes misalignment and machine stoppages.
  • Scalability: Compatibility with industry standards allows for easy scaling.
  • Adaptability: Features like pick points and smooth surfaces suit diverse automated tools and conveyors.

Utz carriers improve production reliability and streamline logistics with advanced design and precision, optimizing manufacturing and warehouse systems.

Smiling consultant

Smarter solutions for efficient part handling

Streamline your operations with custom workpiece carriers engineered for precision, durability, and automation. Improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and meet your sustainability targets — without compromising on performance.

Request a consultation

Examples of component holders

Stack/nest component holder

Stack/nest and nestable component holders

Dual-function holders that allow stacking when full and nesting when empty.

Workpiece carrier as intermediate layers

Component holders as intermediate layers

These holders serve as protective layers between components during transport or storage.

Component holders as container inserts

Component holders as container inserts

Inserts that fit into containers to securely hold small or sensitive components.

ESD component holders

ESD component holders

Electrically conductive holders specifically designed to protect sensitive electronic components.

Frame with interchangeable inserts

Frame with interchangeable inserts

Component holders with modular frame tools for increased adaptability.

Stackable thermoformed holders

Stackable thermoformed holders

Vacuum-formed holders built for stacking multiple products in a compact space.

Load carrier for engine parts

Load carrier for engine parts

For the transport of engine elements to the conveyor belt.

Component holder for toothed belt

Component holder for toothed belt

Toothed belts for the motor control are transported on this component holder.

Component holder for high-precision parts

High-precision parts holder

High-precision parts for the transmission of rotational movement are safely stored here.

Workpiece carrier for automotive components

Workpiece carrier for automotive components

Tailored plastic carrier designed for reception of control elements in the automotive sector.

Component holder with steel inserts

Component holder with inserts

A durable component holder with steel inserts to prevent wear and extend carrier lifespan, ensuring reliable performance under heavy use.

Injection molded component holder for engine parts

Custom component holder for engine parts

Designed to securely organize and store engine components. Perfect for keeping parts easily accessible and well-protected.

How we design your workpiece carrier

3D modelling of a workpiece carrier

Step 1: Understanding your needs

We collaborate to define exact specifications, considering dimensions, material requirements, and operational needs.

Rapid prototype

Step 2: Prototyping and testing

Rapid prototypes and 3D modeling bring your vision to life, allowing early feedback and adjustments.

Robot producing containers

Step 3: Execution

Our in-house toolmaking ensures precise manufacturing and delivering production-ready carriers that match your specifications.

Learn more about the process in detail

The key industries we serve

Our component holders are trusted by clients across multiple sectors due to their flexibility and adaptability. Some industries we specialize in include:

Automotive: Secure transportation of engine parts, cylinder heads, and fragile components.
Pharma and MedTech: Cleanroom-ready carriers for medical devices and precision tools.
Electronics: ESD-safe carriers for sensitive electronic assemblies, preventing static damage.
Intralogistics: Custom carriers for effortless transport and storage of high-precision tools.

Explore how we’ve helped companies like yours reduce costs, improve efficiency, and deliver sustainability through custom component holders.

Selected customers using workpiece carriers from Utz

Audi logo
BMW logo
BOSCH logo
FORVIA Hella logo
Mercedes-Bens logo
NGK logo
Valeo
Volkswagen logo
ZF logo
Automated handling of plastic medical component holders by a robotic arm

Component holders for pharma and MedTech

Workpiece carriers designed for automated supply chains in the medical and pharmaceutical industries enhance efficiency, ensure product integrity, and meet strict regulatory standards. These solutions support high-precision processes while addressing hygiene and sustainability requirements.

Key features

  • Automation compatibility: Precision-molded component holders integrate seamlessly with robotic filling, assembly, and packaging systems, reducing disruptions.
  • Hygiene standards: Made with approved medical-grade materials that are easy to clean and sterilize, ideal for cleanroom environments.
  • Customizable solutions: Tailored designs with dividers and ESD properties protect sensitive devices and components.
  • Durability: Robust, reusable materials withstand repeated sterilization, minimizing waste.
  • Traceability: Barcodes, RFID chips, and labels ensure tracking and regulatory compliance throughout the supply chain.
Recycling old containers to make new ones

Sustainability you can rely on

Sustainability is at the core of our process. All our products are designed for longevity, reuse, and operate within a closed-loop system, significantly reducing carbon footprints and lifecycle costs.

We provide recycling services for your old products, ensuring your used plastic carriers are responsibly collected and repurposed, fully supporting and complying with the PPWR.

3D scanning technology providing a full-surface comparison against the original 3D model

Utz quality you can trust

At Utz, we focus on delivering products that work for you. Designed with precision and crafted to the highest standards, our solutions ensure superior performance and durability in every application. With strict quality control processes in place, you can trust our products to exceed your expectations. We’re committed to providing innovative, reliable solutions that meet your needs and adapt to the demands of your industry.

Learn more about our commitment to quality and precision

Smiling consultant

Smarter solutions for efficient part handling

Streamline your operations with custom workpiece carriers engineered for precision, durability, and automation. Improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and meet your sustainability targets — without compromising on performance.

Request a consultation

Frequently asked questions

Are Utz workpiece carriers compatible with automated conveyor systems and robotic handling?

Yes, Utz workpiece carriers are fully compatible with conveyor systems and robotic handling. Each carrier is engineered with precise dimensions and handling points to integrate seamlessly into automated production and logistics workflows.

Can I customize Utz workpiece carriers with my company branding?

Yes, Utz workpiece carriers can be customized with your company branding. Options include in-mold labeling, laser engraving, embossed logos, and custom color matching to align with your visual identity and enhance traceability.

Do Utz workpiece carriers come in ESD-safe materials for electronics?

Yes, Utz offers workpiece carriers made from ESD-safe materials. These electrically conductive component holders are designed to protect sensitive electronic components from static discharge during transport and handling.

What industries use Utz workpiece carriers?

Utz workpiece carriers are used in a wide range of industries, including automotive, pharmaceutical, electronics, industrial manufacturing, and intralogistics. Each carrier is tailored to meet the specific needs of your application.

Are Utz workpiece carriers environmentally sustainable and reusable?

Yes, all Utz workpiece carriers are reusable and made from recyclable or recycled materials. Designed for long-term use in closed-loop logistics systems, they help reduce waste, lower carbon footprint, and support circular economy goals.

How long does it take to receive a prototype or production-ready workpiece carrier from Utz?

Initial CAD concepts are typically delivered within 1–2 weeks. Prototypes follow within 3–4 weeks, and full production generally takes 4–8 weeks after approval, depending on the design and manufacturing process selected.

Which manufacturing process is better for my workpiece carrier: thermoforming or injection molding?

Thermoforming is ideal for lightweight units, rapid prototyping, and medium production volumes. Injection molding offers greater structural strength and consistency, making it suitable for complex designs and high-volume applications. Our experts will help you choose the best method for your project.

What material options are available for Utz workpiece carriers?

Utz offers a wide range of materials, including virgin ABS, PE, PC, and PS, as well as UIC® recycled plastics, cleanroom-grade compounds, and ESD-safe materials. Material choice depends on your application’s durability, hygiene, or conductivity needs.

Can Utz carriers be used in cleanroom or pharmaceutical environments?

Yes, Utz offers cleanroom-compatible workpiece carriers made with medical-grade or easy-to-clean materials. These carriers meet hygiene and regulatory standards for pharmaceutical and MedTech applications, including sterilization requirements.

What is the expected service life of a reusable Utz workpiece carrier?

Utz carriers are engineered for long-term use and can typically withstand hundreds to thousands of cycles. Their lifespan depends on application, material selection, and handling environment, but all are built to maximize durability and minimize replacement costs.

Are Utz carriers recyclable or part of a closed-loop logistics system?

Yes, all Utz workpiece carriers are recyclable and designed to be reused in closed-loop logistics systems. We support take-back and recycling initiatives, turning end-of-life carriers into new products using our UIC® compound.

What tracking or identification features can be integrated into Utz workpiece carriers?

Utz carriers can be equipped with RFID tags, barcodes, laser marking, label pockets, and in-mold labels. These features support traceability, inventory control, and compliance with industry quality systems.

Do Utz workpiece carriers comply with VDA 4500 standards for automotive logistics?

Yes, Utz manufactures VDA 4500-compliant workpiece carriers. These units meet dimensional, handling, and stacking requirements set by the German Automotive Industry Association, ensuring compatibility with OEM and Tier 1 logistics.

What sizes are available for Utz custom workpiece carriers?

Utz offers fully customizable sizes, ranging from small units around 100 × 80 mm to large carriers up to 2000 × 1200 mm. Sizes are tailored to fit your parts, containers, and material handling systems.

Can Utz component holders be stacked or nested to save space?

Yes, many Utz workpiece carriers are designed for stacking when loaded and nesting when empty. These features save up to 80% of space during return transport or storage, improving logistics efficiency.

Related information

Testing quality of our products

Containers designed with safety in mind

Utz ensures the highest quality for our customers. We conduct a series of rigorous quality tests during the development process to guarantee that our plastic containers meet all intended purposes.

Utz quality
PPWR booklet

PPWR legislation 

Utz Group stays ahead of upcoming legislation and adapts to new sustainability requirements, particularly in the packaging sector. We’ll take a deep dive into the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

Learn more about PPWR
Storing UIC material in bulk

Utz Industrial Compounds

UIC® are high-quality, quality-tested secondary raw materials with specified material properties. The physical properties of UIC® are comparable to those of virgin material. We declare the raw materials used in our products in a transparent and comprehensible manner.

Discover UIC®
Recycling used plastic containers

Return your end-of-life products for a second life

We are committed to sustainability and making it easy for you to recycle our products responsibly. Contact us, and we will help to organize the process.

Start recycling with Utz
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Consultation

Speak to our expert to discuss your individual needs, we’ll develop a solution matching your exact requirements.

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Product catalogue

We've created thousands of products for many satisfied customers. Our catalog presents the entire product range.

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