Wooden crates are the packaging solution most frequently chosen by companies, as they offer multiple advantages.
But how can you be sure that the wooden crates you buy are good quality? And how can you be sure that your merchandise is well protected and will arrive intact at its destination?
As with any other product, there are different qualities in the manufacture of wooden crates. Some are more robust than others, and some are more suitable than others for certain types of transport.
What you need to know to get a good quality wooden crate
Wooden crates are not all manufactured according to the same parameters and, consequently, not all crates offer the same protection and/or strength. Here are just a few of the factors involved:
The type of material used to make the body's panels (e.g. plywood versus aspenite), as well as the thickness of the panels, all play a role in the body's strength and quality. Read our article on manufacturing materials.
The thickness of the body's bottom also has a bearing: is it a single- or double-layer bottom, or simply openwork planks? The strength of the crate depends on the weight of the goods versus the thickness of the bottom.
The number of nails per inch and the length of the nails used influence the rigidity and consequently the resistance of the crate.
The number of skids under the crate (when a pallet is integrated to the wooden crate) and the thickness of the wooden skids (2''x4'' versus ''4x4'' or even 6''x6'') under the crate.
The assembly method is also decisive for the robustness of the crate (a crate that is only nailed versus a crate that is glued and nailed).
As you can see, manufacturing methods can vary enormously depending on your needs as well as from one supplier to another. It is therefore essential to ensure that your crate meets both your specific needs and the standards required by the chosen mode of transport.
For example, shipping by sea requires greater strength and resistance to movement and water. Some shipping lines even refuse aspenite crates because they are less resistant to humidity. Exports, on the other hand, require wooden crates that are HT certified (ISPM-15).
Furthermore, you must also think about protecting your merchandise from elements such as impact, corrosion, humidity, thermal shock and dust. A good wooden crate must therefore be designed with all these elements in mind, obviously in relation to your type of product, its fragility and the chosen mode of transport.
What's more, if your crate is to be reusable, it is even more important to inform yourself about the manufacturing details and the materials used in its manufacture.
In other words, to choose your wooden crate, several factors need to be taken into consideration.
Wooden crate design software
At crates & Pallets, we use software to maximize the design of each crate, and minimize weight and size to reduce shipping costs.
Whether you need a stronger or lighter crate, for road, sea or air transport, for export or otherwise, our team will guide you to ensure that you have the type of box suited to your needs.
Call us today to discuss your needs and get a quote. by dialing 1.888.627.2837.
You can also visit Crates & Pallets Web site for more details, or request quote.