if the question’s still valid, this is how I do it with 3ds max:
set pivot points for every object to be at 0, 0, 0. when importing to UE4 import it as separate objects (do not merge). in object browser (where it shows imported models) select everything and drag - drop into editor. on the right hand tool bar there’s supposed to be object coordinates. set them to 0, 0, 0, and everything should be placed as in 3ds and aligned together.
this way I never had to manually align anything. only downside is that your pivot points aren’t aligned with objects, and later manipulation in UE4 (if needed) can be awkward. but if you set everything up in max (or maya, or blender, or…) and there’s no need for later rearrangement, that’s the easiest way IMHO… 