CH ELLIS CASE STUDY:
UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION
Custom tool case for underground utility-locating equipment
THE CHALLENGE
As underground utility detection equipment has become larger and more advanced, a long-time C.H. Ellis customer — a company specializing in preventing damage to buried pipes and wiring during construction — needed a rugged, field-ready solution to transport their expanding tool line.
Their team had trusted us with smaller cases in the past. Now, they needed a custom design that could keep larger radio frequency equipment protected during truck transport, while still being lightweight enough for field techs to carry.
THE REQUIREMENTS
PRECISE FIT
The larger tools required custom foam inserts and thoughtful layout to prevent shifting or damage in transit.
INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
The case needed to meet shipping standards for deployment in multiple countries.
DURABLE DESIGN
The case needed to stand up to rough handling in construction zones and shipping.
BRANDING
Printed name and logo overlay, foam cutout for storage instructions, and advertising to help sell toolbag accessories
PORTABILITY
Despite increased equipment size, the case had to remain easy to carry for field technicians.
VERSATILITY
The case needed to accommodate both new and legacy equipment, as well as optional accessories
THE SOLUTION
C.H. Ellis worked closely with the customer to engineer a case that checked every box. We created a lightweight yet spacious solution with custom foam inserts for a snug, secure fit.
As the company’s tool lineup evolved, we seamlessly updated the case design to accommodate product changes — maintaining usability across several tool variants without rendering old inventory obsolete.
THE RESULTS
SECURE TRANSPORT
Equipment remains protected from damage during transport and field use.
EASE OF USE
Field techs can move the equipment easily, thanks to the case’s lightweight construction.
FUTURE-PROOFED
Design ensured a smooth transition as tool sizes grew and were replaced.
GLOBAL APPROVAL
The case is now the standard, go-to choice for global operations and deployment.
WHY IT MATTERS
This custom transport case became a critical part of the company’s workflow. With field-tested durability and evolving adaptability, it’s more than packaging — it’s part of the product experience. And when they needed to scale up again, they came right back to C.H. Ellis.
