April at the Depot: Maintenance Mode
We caught up with Michael at our Borders depot to find out what actually happens when the wool depot shifts into “maintenance mode” each April.
Spoiler: it’s a busy month!
Getting Bags Ready for Members
Michael explains, “One of our first priorities in April is making sure empty bags are ready for our members. We prepare sheets with strings and labels, then send them out across all regions.”
With about eight weeks to cover the whole network, he says, “It takes careful planning to make sure everyone gets what they need on time.”
Servicing Machinery and Safety Checks
Maintenance mode isn’t just about bags. Michael shows us around the depot: “We service wool presses, forklifts, lifting gear, and calibrate the scales. Every bolt, seal, and weld is checked. It might sound boring, but it’s essential – we can’t have anything breaking down when the season starts.”
All lifting equipment also gets independently inspected every 6–12 months, and operators do daily pre-use checks to catch any issues early. Michael adds, “It keeps everyone safe, and it keeps things running smoothly.”
Can You Deliver Wool During Maintenance?
We asked Michael if farmers can still drop off wool: “Absolutely! Even though the cut-off date is 2nd April, all depots can still accept deliveries during maintenance. Any wool we receive is quarantined and held until the new season opens on 1st May. Then we process it fully.”
So if you’re worried about late deliveries, don’t be – your local depot has you covered.
What Happens When We “Pack Up”?
Michael explains packing up at the end of the grading season: “We consolidate wool into standard bales by grade. For small quantities or incomplete grades, we carefully combine them into suitable batches. Quality and consistency are really important, so buyers and manufacturers get exactly what they expect.”
Why Pre-Season Maintenance Matters
“Keeping our machinery in top condition is critical,” Michael says. “We service everything, do daily checks, and inspect lifting equipment. It prevents hazards and keeps the depot running efficiently. Safety is just as important as speed.”
Closing Sale Lots
Before the new season starts, Michael tells us they close all sale lots. Why? “It gives us a clear stock position, helps value any remaining wool accurately, and gives an idea of pricing trends for the season ahead.”
Still Have Wool to Drop Off? Don’t Worry!
Michael reassures, “April is busy, but if you still have wool to deliver, there’s no need to stress. Drop it off during maintenance, and we’ll have it ready for full processing once the season starts.”
Check our Depot Network to find your nearest depot or collection centre!
