Category: Content

With the ever-widening legalization of cannabis in Canada and the United States, growers are quickly embracing innovative solutions to optimize the handling and processing of medical and recreational marijuana. As America’s “largest cash crop” transitions from small scale pot growers to industrial cannabis operations, producers are scrambling to find the best ways to grow, harvest, process, store, and distribute everything from stem to bud.

Since the legalization of marijuana, reusable packaging containers have been an invaluable part of the cannabis industry. And while some growers are still dealing with the waste of household containers purchased from big box retailers, serious producers have rapidly adopted industrial-grade containers. Industrial agricultural containers provide the best value, durability, and functionality for the cannabis industry. The use of standard, industrial cannabis containers increases efficiency and helps to preserve the value of crops — positively impacting both the top line and bottom line of cannabusinesses.

 

The Top Reusable Containers for Cannabis

The Collapsible Cannabis Reusable Plastic Container (RPC)

A favorite for cannabis growers, RPCs are perfectly suited to hand bucking, weighing, and drying. Lightweight, inexpensive, and durable, these plastic containers are an all-round best value. Growers can harvest buds directly into the containers. Their bases and top edges have nesting features that allow them to stack securely. The containers’ vented sidewalls and bases then allow for maximum airflow during drying. All this means the buds require only a single touch, reducing contamination and loss and potentially preserving cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. When not in use, the RPCs fold easily and stack securely — saving space and return freight costs.

Our Pick:

24 x 16 x 09 Agricultural RPC (Pictured)

 

Bulk Cannabis Harvest Containers

For whole-plant cannabis harvesting, vented agricultural bulk containers provide the best value. From root to bud, these containers hold it all. Available in various sizes and heights, these containers are used to carry large quantities of cannabis. Built for field harvesting, resistant to contaminants, and easily washable, they are among the strongest and most durable bulk packaging products. Key design options include either fixed walls or collapsible walls, providing optimization for any operation.

Our Picks:

48 x 48 x 28 Fixed Wall Agricultural Container

48 x 40 x 33 Collapsible Bulk Container (Pictured)

 

Bulk Cannabis Storage & Curing Containers

Bulk cannabis storage containers feature strong forklift bases and reinforced sidewalls. Strong enough to hold liquids, these containers are as tough as it gets. They also feature tight-fitting lids that can be secured with straps or locks. Our latest model (pictured) includes a gas pressure relief valve, enabling the removal of methane gasses during cannabis curing. Many models also have convenient access doors and panels, enabling quick product review, quality assurance testing, and inventory. Like the bulk harvest containers, they’re available with either fixed or collapsible walls.

Our Picks:

39 x 31 x 38 Intermediate Bulk Container (Pictured)

48 x 40 x 46 Collapsible Agricultural Transport Bin

 

Cannabis Storage Totes

Need a small or mid-sized storage option for your marijuana products? Instead of wasting money on household totes, upgrade and save money by buying best-in-class industrial totes. Available in virtually every size imaginable, these containers can optimize your cannabis storage needs. Options include a variety of lid designs, stack-and-nest features, colors, imprinting, and more.

Our Picks:

24 x 16 x 11 Stack and Nest Container (Pictured)

32 x 18 x 12 Handheld Container

17 x 11 x 08 Handheld Cross Stack Tub

 

Cannabis Distribution Containers

When it comes to retail distribution, no container is more trusted than the iconic attached lid tote. With interlocking “finger” lids, strong hinges, and reinforced sidewalls these containers are built to last. They also nest when empty. These distribution containers are found on the trucks, loading docks, warehouse shelves, and retail floors of stores worldwide. Often used in pharmaceutical and drug stores, these containers are perfect for split packing cannabis related products for delivery.

Our Picks:

27 x 17 x 12 Attached Lid Container (Pictured)

Rolling Dolly for 27 x 12 x 12 Attached Lid Container (Pictured)

 

Why Use Reusable Packaging for Marijuana?

Simply put: Green should be green.

The cannabis industry is uniquely positioned to lead the agricultural industry in environmental responsibility. Free from the sunk costs and waste of antiquated agricultural operations, the legal cannabis industry has emerged into a packaging ecosystem fully stocked with options built through decades of proven innovation and agricultural best practices.

Plastic packaging is the most durable and sustainable option available to cannabis growers. In contrast to wasteful single-use and paper-based packaging, reusable plastic containers last for years. They’re lighter than metal, glass, and fiberglass alternatives, which improves distribution efficiency. And they’re fully recyclable.

Reusable packaging is also the cost-effective choice — saving green while going green while growing green. By choosing long-lasting, reusable plastic packaging, cannabis growers save money while preserving the environment.

 

Why Reusable Transport Packaging?

At Reusable Transport Packaging, we work with all of the leading reusable packaging manufacturers. Our independent expertise gives us the unique objectivity to help cannabis growers find the best possible industrial containers. Our business is built on helping our customers find the best containers at the very best prices. We’re trusted by thousands of growers, processors, distributors, and retailers to always provide the perfect packaging solution for every application.

Not sure what you need? Our solutions experts have unparalleled knowledge of the packaging industry. We help our partners analyze and optimize their cannabis operations. Contact us today for a free phone or on-site consultation.

Since the middle of the 20th century, plastic containers have emerged as the preferred handling system for agriculture. Plastic containers were an easy replacement for their wood, paper, cardboard, and metal predecessors. Plastics are lightweight, durable, waterproof, and won’t rust, rot, dust, or splinter. Today, they’re used in farms, greenhouses, orchards, vineyards, and fields worldwide.

While plastic containers have become commonplace in agriculture, their styles are endless and always evolving. We sell and have worked with every type of plastic container imaginable — from highly specialized, produce-specific lugs to generic, carry-all bulk bins — so we know what works best. To introduce you to the world of reusable agricultural containers, here’s a complete rundown of their major differences.

 

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Structural Styles

Bulk Containers

Agricultural bulk containers do the heavy-lifting on farms. They’re used in the field and throughout storage and processing. Bulk containers are generally defined by their large capacities and fork-compatible, “pallet-style” bases.

Shop Agriculture Bulk Containers

 

Harvest Totes

Harvest totes fall into a broad category that encompasses many overlapping and interchangeable container styles, including lugs, picking baskets, bins, flats, trays, and more. In general, these reusable containers are small enough to be handheld and they are used directly at the point-of harvest.

Harvest totes are often designed with specific types or sizes of produce in mind. There are flats for delicate berries, mid-sized totes for tomatoes, mushrooms, and asparagus, and deep lugs that work perfectly for melons and squash. There are even trays used for harvesting, washing, and drying herbs.

Shop Harvest Totes

 

RPCs

Within the world of agricultural totes, RPCs deserve their own distinction. Technically, RPCs could fall in the harvest totes category (as they’re often used to harvest fruits and vegetables), but they tend to be considered to be a class all their own.

Depending on who you talk to, the initials RPC are thought to stand for “reusable plastic container” or “returnable plastic container.” Regardless of the phrasing, the defining feature of RPCs are their collapsible sidewalls. By having hinged walls that easily snap into place for use or fold flat when empty, RPCs save a ton of space and money, both in storage and transport. 

RPCs were designed primarily to provide efficiency in closed-loop distribution systems (such as grocery produce deliveries). As such, they come in a lot of retail-friendly designs. Nevertheless, due to their ease of use and durability, RPCs have quickly gained traction as a field harvest bin — making them a true farm-to-store packaging solution.

Shop RPCs

 

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Agricultural Container Features

Fixed or Collapsible Walls

Agricultural containers with fixed walls maximize simplicity and are often the most durable options available. They’re perfect for tough environments. They tend to have fewer crevices, making them easier to clean.

The other option is collapsible containers. These plastic agricultural workhorses feature walls that lock into place when in use and fold inward when unused. This provides maximum storage and freight optimization, with the trade-off being a few additional moving parts. 

 

Vented or Solid

The walls (and bottoms) of agricultural containers are available as either solid surfaces or with various ventilation/drainage holes. Most fruit and vegetable growers prefer vented bins, as they enable better temperature regulation, drainage, and exposure management for ethylene, nitrogen, etc. Solid wall containers, however, help retain juices, granules, and other small items, making them ideal for produce such as grapes, berries, grains, seeds, and nuts.

 

Secure Stacking

Nearly every type of agricultural container has some sort of stacking feature. Whether they have interlocking rims and bottoms, staggered stack-and-nest columns built into the sidewalls, or peg-and-socket corners, agricultural containers are made to maximize field performance, tuck loads, and storage. Many of the collapsible bulk containers and RPCs even offer secure stacking while fully collapsed, which keeps return trips and storage safe, secure, and tidy.

 

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Materials

Agricultural containers are required to be made from FDA approved plastics. They’re free from many of the inorganic treatments and contaminants found in some wood and paper-based packaging options. Most plastic agriculture containers are treated with UV stabilizers to ensure their performance and beauty in the field.

Most agricultural containers are made from one of two types of plastic. The differences outlined here will not be noticeable for most users, but they may be a factor for those seeking to push the performance limits of various pallets. For those seeking highly specialized needs, there is also an alternative to the two leading materials.

 

High Density Polypropylene (HDPP) Containers

High Density Polypropylene (HDPP) is lightweight, durable, widely available, and used in everything from milk jugs to furniture. HDPP is slightly less rigid than HDPE (see below), which gives it better impact resistance. HDPP tends to be more cost-effective than HDPE. HDPP containers are ideal for high volume, fast paced, and tough work environments. The majority of the leading agricultural containers are made from HDPP.

 

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Containers

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is the most common plastic in the United States. As a chemical compound, it is slightly more rigid than HDPP, which makes it stronger but also less impact resistant. It is a popular material for handheld agricultural containers.

 

Fiberglass Containers

Fiberglass containers are popular with vertical farmers and others. The hyper-rigid strength of this material keeps it from bending or sagging under heavy loads. Some models can exceed the stacking height of plastic alternatives. The smooth, nonporous composite material is exceptionally easy to clean, resists contaminants, as is temperature stable from -60° to 250° F (-51° to 121° C).

 

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Sizes

Bulk Container Sizes

The typical tractor trailer has a cargo width of 8-feet. This is why many farmers and distributors prefer bulk containers with widths of 48 inches (or slightly less). Nearly all plastic bulk containers feature 4-way fork access. This allows them to be loaded from any side, often eliminating the need for space-wasting “chimney stacking” or “narrow:narrow” load configurations.

The most commonly used footprints are:

• 48″ x 40″
• 48″ x 45″
• 48″ x 48″

For agriculture, the depth of containers is very important. When dealing with delicate produce, it’s important that the product not crush itself during transport and storage. Bulk containers come in depths as shallow as 12 inches — perfect for transporting berries and stone fruit. Going up from there, there are many size options. Most growers prefer bins in the 26 to 32 inch depth range. Some of the taller agricultural bulk containers feature internal dimensions of up to 46 inches.

 

Handheld Container Sizes

Harvest totes, lugs, and RPCs typically have lengths of less than 28 inches, enabling them to be manually handled with ease. When picking the right size, there are a few things to consider.

• Too Shallow: In general, you want containers that are deep enough to hold your produce without the produce protruding above the top edges of the containers. This allows full containers to stack neatly without the lower container’s contents being damaged by the upper container’s bottom.
• Too Deep: Depending on the nature of your produce, you may also need to consider the effect of the weight of the produce within the container. For instance, strawberries tend to require shallower containers so that they are not crushed by their own weight.
• Optimized Footprints: You should select handheld containers that will maximize your load and storage capacity. It is best to buy containers that will make the most of your tucks, pallets, refrigeration, processing lines, and shelving. For instance, if your apple bins are intended to ship on 40″ x 48″ plastic pallets, you will likely want to consider containers at or less than 20″ x 24″ or even 20″ x 12″.
• Retail Preference: To make the farm-to-store experience as efficient as possible, you may want to consider containers sized according to your retailers’ or consumers’ preferences. In a perfectly sized RPC, growers can harvest, process, store, ship, and retail display — all without repackaging the produce. In closed loop supply chains, some are even able to sell the produce right in the containers and then have the empty containers returned by the consumer. 

Shop Our Top Agriculture Containers

 

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Weights

Load Weights

The strength of plastic containers generally exceed their traditional alternatives. Even lightweight models often exceed the load capacities of paper-based packaging, such as case boxes and gaylords. Plastic bulk container options are often rated for loads well over a half ton. Handheld harvest containers and RPCs are generally rated to hold loads ranging from 30 to 50 lbs.

 

Tare Weights

Container weight can have a large impact on shipping costs, rack storage, and workplace ergonomics. Using efficiently weighted containers can save you money and labor. Our agricultural bulk containers tend to be fairly lightweight; generally well under 100 lbs. for a bulk container with a full pallet base. Some of the lighter bulk bins, such as our 48″ x 44″ x 23″ hybrid shipper bin, weigh as little as 56 lbs. 

Handheld containers generally have a tare weight of less than 5 lbs. Some lightweight models, such as our “Breeze Crate,” weigh less than a pound. In general, heavier containers have higher load weight capacities and are more durable. 

 

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Additional Agriculture Container Options and Features

RFID Technology

RFID transponders can be embedded in plastic containers to provide tracking, identification, and security. RFID transponders are an ideal addition to any closed loop supply chain or return credit distribution system.

 

Detachable Bases

Want the efficiency of a nestable container with the options of a straight-wall bulk container? Some plastic bulk container models are available with detachable bases. This makes them ideal for systems where they will be returned empty.

Some bulk containers feature feet and runner systems that are designed to be easily field-repairable. Accidentally crush a runner with your tractor? No big deal. With certain styles of bulk containers, you can quickly remove and replace damaged parts. 

 

Access Doors/Panels

Many plastic bulk containers (and even some handheld agriculture containers) feature convent access doors. This allows product to be easily reached, even when fully stacked. When closed, these access panels lock securely in place.

 

Customized Imprinting, Labeling & Numbering

Plastics provide a wide range of customization options. There are many hot stamping, printing, labeling, and engraving options available for everything from your branding to the container fleet number.

 

Metal Reinforcement Rods

Want to make a plastic bulk container even stronger? Many styles are available with either built-in or optional metal reinforcement rods. These additional supports can increase dynamic load capacities and reduce bowing on pallets loaded with uneven weight distribution.

 

UV Treatments

Most plastic agricultural containers options come with UV protection. Select styles may be able to add UV protection upon request. This protects the color and structural integrity of the containers when dealing with prolonged sun exposure.

 

FDA Compliant Materials

There are hundreds of styles of FDA and USDA compliant plastic containers. Built with FDA approved resins (PP, PE, or fiberglass), color dyes, and treatments, these containers are designed for harvesting and processing food. All plastic agricultural containers are also easily washed and sanitized.

Shop Our Complete Inventory of Agriculture Containers

 

Due to their durability, features, and economic value, reusable bulk containers are a longstanding and important part of production and distribution operations.

In the late 1880s, inefficient trunks, crates, barrels, wagons, and casks gave way to wood and metal bulk containers. Plastic fixed wall bulk containers emerged in the 1970s, as a more resilient and lighter alternative. Since then, plastic reusable containers have steadily grown in popularity. Today, plastic bulk containers dominate many industries, such as agriculture, food processing, and industrial manufacturing.

Plastic bulk containers are available in an almost endless array of styles. From collapsible bins for industrial manufacturing to 330 gallon “intermediate” bulk containers for liquids and gels, there are now products for virtually any storage or transportation need. Nevertheless, bulk container users still rely heavily on the tried-and-true models of “fixed wall” bulk containers.

Defining Features of Plastic Fixed Wall Bulk Containers

Reusable plastic fixed wall bulk containers come in with a wide number of sizes, styles, and features, but they all generally share two things in common;

• fork-lift accessible bases, either with pallet bases, runners, or raised feet; and
• permanently joined and erect walls.

They get their name from the simple fact that these bulk containers have prefixed walls. This means that the side walls of the bins don’t fold or readily detach. Often, the side walls are molded as a single piece with their base. This unique design feature provides incredible structural strength and reduces the number of moving parts involved in operation.

Anatomy of Plastic Fixed Wall Bulk Containers

Fixed wall bulk containers have an ever-evolving array of features. Unlike their wood and metal predecessors, plastic molding processes allow for limitless innovation and performance improvements. Here are some key features that you’ll find in many styles:

The Top Styles of Plastic Fixed Wall Bulk Containers

Vented Fixed Wall

Vented fixed wall bulk containers are used primarily in agriculture, food processing, and produce storage. The holes and slits in the side walls allow the contents to be efficiently ventilated. This helps handlers control product temperatures, humidity levels, gaseous emissions, and exposure. Many styles also feature vents, known as drains, in the bases. The combination of these features often allows products to be harvested, transported, rinsed, treated, preserved, and stored — all without leaving the container.

Solid Fixed Wall

Bulk containers with smooth walls are called solid wall bulk containers. These bulk containers provide contents with the maximum protection. They regularly include reinforced ribbing in the walls, which maximizes the strength of the bins. This style of bulk container is widely used in industries that work with sensitive contents, shelf-stable dry goods, and items too small for vented bins. Their smooth walls are easy to clean, making them ideal for food processors and producers of consumer goods, such as plastics and textiles.

Nestable Fixed Wall

Nestable bulk containers have tapered side walls. This allows the bins to rest inside one another when empty. They are the ideal containers for people seeking a fixed wall bin but also wanting to save space on storage and return freight. Often available with matching lids, nested fixed wall containers are the industrial and bulk equivalent of Tupperware. As such, they’re widely used to move, process, and store food, chemicals, and other sensitive goods.

Shop All Nestable Bulk Containers

Liquid Fixed Wall

Liquid fixed wall bulk containers are often categorized as part of the “intermediate bulk container” (IBC) family. And while the IBC market is heavily moving toward collapsible versions, there is still a strong necessity and demand for fixed wall versions. There are two leading styles of liquid fixed wall containers, the bottle-in-a-cage style and all-plastic walled versions. As a replacement for traditional drums and tanks, these bins bring incredible efficiency to those working with liquids, gels, slurries, pastes, syrups, chemicals, and more.

Shop All Liquid Bulk Containers

Insulated Fixed Wall

Insulated fixed wall bulk containers are essential for the seafood, dairy, meat processing, pharmaceutical, and scientific industries. They’re essentially pallet-sized versions of the popular consumer coolers, such as those made by Yeti, RTIC, and ORCA. These insulated coolers provide exceptional cold storage — even during international transport. They’re made with FDA approved plastics and easy to clean and sanitize.

Shop All Insulated Bulk Containers

Custom Fixed Wall Bulk Containers

Every industry has unique demands. Custom fixed wall bulk containers can be built to suit virtually any project or task. Common customizations include the addition of casters, drains, access drop doors, latches, and attached hinged lids. Some users also opt to have their fixed wall bulk containers outfitted with locks, RFID transponders, custom colors, sequential numbering, hot-stamped logos, and more. When it comes to plastic bulk containers, almost anything is possible.

Shop Our Complete Inventory of Fixed Wall Bulk Containers

Plastic pallets have become the cornerstone of sustainable, green supply chain management (GSCM). Their efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness has earned them the support of environmentalists, distributors, and economists alike. Today, plastic pallets are manufactured by hundreds of companies worldwide. Unlike wood pallets, plastic pallets offer a wide range of styles, sizes, and features. To help you purchase the best plastic pallets for your business, here’s the complete buyer’s guide to plastic pallets.

 

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Structural Styles

Rackable Pallets

Pallets with length-wise, structurally supportive runners are often referred to as “rackable” or “rack-compatible” pallets. Having skid runners instead of feet enables rackable pallets to span the width of industrial storage racks and shelving. Naturally, rackable pallets can also be stacked or rest directly on the floor. Rackable pallets tend to be among the strongest options on the market, but that strength generally comes with additional weight and material costs. They’re necessary for rack storage and ideal for warehouses, retail stores, and general product storage.

Shop Rackable Pallets

 

Nestable Pallets

The nestability of many plastic pallets is a huge advantage over traditional wood pallets. Designed with concave, cupped feet, these pallets nest inside each other when empty. This nesting provides incredible space efficiency, which can save a lot of money on return shipping and storage. While a traditional wood pallet may require more than six inches of vertical space, a nestable pallet can often require less than an inch when nested inside another pallet. This means that while a dozen wood pallets may waste up to six feet of vertical space, that same space can be filled with more than 60 nestable pallets.

Shop Nestable Pallets

 

Stackable Pallets

Many plastic pallet descriptions include the word “stackable.” What this means is that those pallets are designed with features that enable safe and secure stacking. The design of these features can range.  Nestable pallets are inherently stackable, due to their cupped feet. Other stackable designs may include a small lip or edge along the top of the pallet that matches a corresponding groove or slot along the bottom. More advanced plastic pallet designs may feature entire deck tops that interlock with the bottom runners of other pallets. Whatever design technology is used, the end results are pallets that securely stack together — helping to eliminate the clutter and risks associated with precarious stacks of wooden pallets.

Shop Stackable Pallets

 

Export “One Way” Pallets

Lightweight pallets are often referred to as “one way” or “export” pallets. These minimalist plastic pallets are often inexpensive and lightweight, reducing the costs associated with packaging and freight. But don’t mistake their streamlined look with weakness. Plastic export pallets can generally hold loads equal to or heavier than traditional wood GMA pallets (4,600 lbs.), but plastic pallets often weigh much less. As an added benefit, the moisture and contaminant resistance of plastic pallets can also help reduce product spoilage and customs issues caused by infested wood pallets.

Shop One Way Pallets

 

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Deck Styles

Closed Deck Pallets

Closed deck pallets are those with solid-surface tops. These decks provide a smooth surface for the bottom of the cargo, which can be ideal for sensitive products. They minimize surface abrasion and protect contents from sagging or falling through the pallet. Some closed deck pallets have structural or functional features built in. These features can include non-slip materials, drainage holes, strap restraints, etc.

 

Ventilated Deck Pallets

As a hybrid between closed and open deck pallets, ventilated deck pallets feature generally smooth top faces with a number of ventilation holes, slits, or grooves. These vents protect the bottom of contents while still allowing airflow and drainage around products. This helps manage the moisture, pressure, temperature, and gaseous exposure of contents. Ventilated deck pallets are popular with industries dealing with food processing, paper goods, textiles, building materials, and wet conditions.

 

Open Deck Pallets

Open deck pallets provide minimal touch points on the surface of the pallet. They generally rely on a web or grid based design to provide structural support, but they remain otherwise open from top to bottom. The absence of a solid deck reduces the weight and provides unparalleled visual access, tie down points, drainage, and ventilation. Open deck pallets are popularly used with exports, packaged goods, agricultural produce, and machinery.

 

Specialty Pallets

Plastic pallets serve every industry, but flat pallets aren’t always the best fit. Speciality pallets are made for a wide number of uses. They include standard, octagonal, and cubed drainage retention pallets, drum pallets, and concave pallets with cylindrical supports for rolled materials. Another innovative style of specialty pallets are sectional, interlocking pallets. Sold in individual sections, these plastic pallets connect to one another and allow users to build the perfect pallets for their specifications.

Shop Speciality Pallets

 

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Materials

There are three primary materials used in plastic pallets. While each have their own unique benefits (e.g. rigidity vs. impact resistance), they’re generally equally sufficient for most use cases. The differences outlined here will not be noticeable for most users, but they may be a factor for those seeking to push the performance limits of various pallets.

 

High Density Polypropylene (HDPP) Pallets

High Density Polypropylene (HDPP) is the most common resin used in plastic pallets. It is light, durable, widely available, and used in everything from milk jugs to furniture. Slightly less rigid than HDPE (see below), HDPP has incredible impact resistance. HDPP tends to be more cost-effective than HDPE. HDPP pallets are ideal for high volume, fast paced, and tough work environments.

 

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Pallets

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is the most common plastic in the United States, and the second most popular option for plastic pallets. As a chemical compound, it is slightly more rigid than HDPP, which makes it stronger but also less impact resistant. It’s ideal for sensitive products and low-abuse environments, such as in the technology, glasswares, and beverage distribution sectors.

 

Polyolefin (PO) & Advanced Composite Material (ACM) Pallets

Polyolefin (PO) is sometimes referred to as Advanced Composite Material (ACM). Made from a composite of various plastics and cellulose, PO tends to be more cost effective than HDPP and more rigid than HDPE. However, the PO material has been known to bleed colors or gels when exposed to water, so they are generally not used in food processing or with unprotected consumer goods. PO pallets work well in dry conditions and one-way shipping.

 

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Sizes

Standard Truck Sized Pallets

The typical tractor trailer hauls an 8-foot wide trailer, which is the same width as a sea container. As such, pallets with either lengths or widths of 48 inches (or slightly less) are generally ideal for maximizing load space. The most commonly used sizes are:

• 44″ x 44″
• 48″ x 32″
• 48″ x 40″ (GMA Size)
• 48″ x 45″
• 48″ x 48″

Plastic pallets can be invaluable to maximizing trailer and container space, as nearly all plastic pallets feature 4-way fork access. This enables pallets to be loaded from any side, often eliminating the need for space-wasting “chimney stacking” or “narrow:narrow” load configurations.

 

Extended Length Pallets

Extended length pallets are generally any that exceed 48 inches in any direction. These large pallets are often used to transport large machinery, furniture, and other pre-assembled items. While custom pallets can always be made, there are some more common extended length pallets, including:

• 26″ x 52″
• 52″ x 52″
• 54″ x 48″
• 60″ x 48″
• 60″ x 60″

 

Small Pallets

On the opposite end of the spectrum, there is an almost endless array of small plastic pallets, which we define as any pallet with a length or width shorter than 32 inches. Small pallets are useful in optimizing space, perfect for smaller deliveries, and easy to navigate through smaller doorways, aisles, and rows. Like all plastic packaging products, small pallets can be highly customized and built-to-suit, making them ideal for product-specific uses. Frequently sold sizes include:

• 24″ x 16″
• 32″ x 24″
• 32″ x 30″

 

Shop Plastic Pallets by Size

Rackable Pallet Sizes
Nestable Pallet Sizes
Stackable Pallet Sizes
One-Way Pallet Sizes

 

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Weights

Load Weights

Plastic pallets provide exceptional strength. Even the lightweight models often exceed the load capacities of wood pallets. Lightweight plastic pallet options are often rated for static loads over 3,000 lbs., and the heavy duty pallet versions are capable of carrying loads in excess of:

• 11,000 lbs.
• 17,000 lbs.
• 20,000 lbs.
• 30,000 lbs.

Tare Weights

Pallet weight has a large impact on shipping costs, rack storage, and workplace ergonomics. Having the most efficiently weighted pallets in your fleet can save you money while also improving ease of use. Our export pallets are a great example of some of the lightest plastic pallets on the market. But even our most robust standard pallets are comparable in weight to standard wood pallets, with virtually all standard and small sizes weighing less than 50 lbs.

 

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Additional Pallet Options and Features

RFID Technology

RFID transponders can be embedded in plastic pallets to provide tracking, identification, and security. RFID transponders are an ideal addition to any closed loop supply chain or return credit distribution system.

 

Detachable Runners

Want the efficiency of a nestable pallet with the options of a rackable pallet? Some plastic pallet models are available with detachable runners (“skids”). These runners can be easily removed and replaced, which also makes these hybrid pallets ideal for high-abuse racking operations.

 

Anti-Slip Top Decks

Sometimes the contents on top of the pallet need a little extra help staying put. That’s easily accomplished with built-in friction pads and textured decks.

 

Safety Rims

Want to make sure your goods don’t shift? Plastic pallets feature a number of subtle but effective rim styles. From complete, raised edges to small prongs, safety rims keep contents in place with also enabling the secure stacking of empty pallets.

 

Customized Imprinting, Labeling & Numbering

Plastic pallets provide a wide range of customizability. There are many hot stamping, printing, labeling, and engraving options available for everything from your branding to the pallet fleet number.

 

Metal Reinforcement Rods

Want to make a plastic pallet even stronger? Many styles are available with either built-in or optional metal reinforcement rods. These additional supports can increase dynamic load capacities and reduce bowing on pallets loaded with uneven weight distribution.

 

Stretch Wrap Traps

Built-in stretch wrap traps are available on many of our plastic pallets. The clever little slots hold stretch wrap in place, helping you get your wrapping started.

 

Top Caps

Using all three dimensions is an important way to reduce storage and transport costs. Top caps protect the contents of your pallet load while also providing a secure base for the stacking of the next loaded pallet.

Shop Pallet and Top Cap Products

 

Sleeve Packs

Often paired with top-caps, sleeve packs provide walls for your pallets, turning a plastic pallet into a reusable, plastic gaylord-style bulk container. Sleeve packs are made from recyclable plastic (usually corrugated), and they collapse for easy storage and efficient returns.

Shop Sleeve Packs

 

Fire Retardant

The polymers that comprise most plastic pallets are naturally more fire retardant than wood. Nevertheless, additional fire retardation treatments can be added to plastic pallets to ensure that they meet the demands and safety requirements of your organization.

 

UV Treatments

Many plastic pallet options feature UV protection either in the base product or as an add-on solution. This protects the color of the pallets when dealing with prolonged sun exposure.

 

FDA Compliant Materials

There are hundreds of styles of FDA compliant plastic pallets. Built with FDA approved resins (PP or PE) and colors, these plastic pallets are perfect for use in agricultural, food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.

Shop Our Complete Inventory of Plastic Pallets

Over the last decade, market studies have consistently shown that most consumers prefer buying from brands that offer “green,” environmentally sustainable products and services. Taking it beyond preference and to the bank, in 2017 Unilever reported that a third of consumers intentionally “buy from brands they believe are doing social or environmental good.” How does a company achieve these ideals in the eyes of the consumer? One way is by altering their packaging solutions to achieve a zero waste supply chain.

As the global marketplace responds to this shift in consumer preference, there’s been a frenzy of focus on reusable packaging, green supply chain management (GSCM), and zero waste strategies. Economically, these efforts are resulting in billions of dollars in savings and increased top line sales numbers for companies large and small.

Redesigning supply chains, investing in new product distribution packaging, and creating cost-effective return processes can be daunting. But even small steps toward sustainability are progress. Here are six simple ways to meet consumer demand for sustainability and move your company toward the goal of zero-waste operations.

 

1. Use Plastic Pallets Instead of Wood Pallets

There are billions of wood pallets in use around the world. In the United States, the production of wood pallets consumes almost 50% of the timber grown domestically. Wood pallets generally have a lifespan of one year, and about half of wood pallets are destined for single-use. The recyclability statistics of wood pallets are somewhat nebulous, as some are considered to be “recycled” when used more than once, but wood pallet recycling in general is often problematic because of the nails and chemicals used in the construction. Weight is also a significant factor, as the 40lb. weight of the average wood pallet has a vast impact on transport energy costs and carbon emissions.

Plastic pallets are a natural green alternative to wood pallets. Plastic pallets generally exceed the lifespan of wood pallets, often lasting up to 10 years in continuous use. The longer lifespans of plastic pallets reduce annual waste, eliminate hardwood deforestation, and increase value over time. Plastic pallets are often made of recycled plastics and can in turn be fully recycled. Plastic pallets also provide incredible strength, while reducing tare weight and shipping dimensions, lowering the environmental impact incurred by the carbon emissions of large and heavy freight. An ideal example of plastic pallet efficiency is found in lightweight plastic pallets, which weigh in as low as 12 lbs. and nest for return shipping and storage.

 

2. Deliver Goods in Custom Returnable Corrugated Plastic Boxes

Worldwide, governing bodies are rapidly banning single-use plastic bags. Meanwhile, the harvesting, pulping, and distribution impacts of paper bags is coming under increased scrutiny, as their cradle-to-grave environmental impact is actually worse than that of plastic bags. For these reasons, many leading companies are exploring alternative, reusable delivery packaging. Reusable bags are a viable option for some uses, but they often lack the rigidity and structural strength needed to protect sensitive contents.

A fast-emerging solution to this environmental and operational dilemma is the use of corrugated plastic containers. Lightweight and built to last, corrugated plastic boxes, bins, totes, and trays make the ideal delivery and distribution packaging solution. While the corrugated “postal tote” is ubiquitous, the low cost of customization and wide array of off-the-shelf styles mean that corrugated plastic boxes are being deployed to carry everything from small goods to produce to pallet-sized loads. Paired with a viable return system, corrugated packaging is the wave of the future.

 

3. Use Collapsible and Nesting Containers

Freight and storage have tremendous impacts on the environment. Traditional, fixed wall boxes and bins often lack spatial efficiency and result in excess carbon emissions. Fortunately, reusable plastic containers feature thousands of space-saving features. Collapsible containers are available in nearly every imaginable size — from small bins to large bulk containers. Collapsible containers are used to hold contents as diverse as agricultural produce, bulk liquids, and even automotive parts. Nesting containers have fewer moving parts, but also provide incredible efficiency. Popular styles of nesting containers include stack-and-nest totes, attached lid containers, corrugated totes, and bulk containers.

 

4. Organize Inventory on Your Terms

Operational efficiency is essential to environmental sustainability. Top green companies are embracing new supply chain processes and warehouse strategies to optimize space and reduce waste. Efficient storage and item retrieval processes eliminate unnecessary resource consumption. Reusable plastic containers, fiberglass trays, and rack-compatible plastic pallets are the cornerstones of many automation and efficiency efforts.

Long-lasting storage and shelf bins optimize space by letting you manage inventory in the volumes, locations, and spaces that work best for you — as opposed to letting suppliers’ default packaging dictate your processes. Attached lid totes have become a mainstay of split-pack distribution. And interlocking, stackable pick-and-pack bins enable the safe storage and distribution of all sorts of products. Got oddly shaped or delicate items taking up valuable shelf and truck space? Custom dunnage can be an easy way to save space and increase load capacities.

 

5. Establish Return Credit Systems

Return credit systems are as classic as milkmen. And while some new companies are using them for B2C goods, the same principle scales especially well within B2B and B2G operations. Return credit systems have proven their value through their wide use with goods such as bakery items, dairy products, and bottled beverages, but there’s no reason to limit their efficiency to grocers. The longevity and durability of reusable plastic pallets, bulk containers, and distribution totes makes them a perfect fit for return credit systems. Such return systems enable businesses to reduce packaging costs while protecting the environment by ensuring the sustained reuse and eventual recycling of plastic packaging materials.

 

6. Use Only Recyclable Packaging

Even the most durable supply chain product will eventually run out of usability. While reusable plastic packaging vastly extends that lifespan over traditional wood-based and single-use items, it comes with a final environmental benefit: It’s 100% recyclable. When a plastic pallet, bulk container, tote, or tray reaches the end of its service, it can be readily recycled by almost any plastics recycler. And a fully recycled product is a zero-waste product, which is great for you, your corporate social responsibility, your bottom line, your consumers, and the environment.

 

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If you have questions about integrating reusable packaging into your supply chain or operations, our packaging consultants would be glad to provide you with complimentary consultation. Contact us today.

2019 is set to be a big year for reusable packaging. Many of the leading packaging manufacturers have released new products, emerging global upstarts have made bold moves into the U.S. market, and regulations keep driving companies toward waste-reducing solutions. Meanwhile, there are a few classic reusable products that just seem to get better with age and are only growing in popularity as sustainable, plastic packaging continues to become the industry standard. Here’s a rundown of some of the products we predict will be making waves in 2019.

 

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Nestable Hybrid Short Shipper Bins

They’ve pulled out all the stops in making this stackable and nestable bulk container. As a crossover between traditional field harvest bins and shipping bulk containers, the hybrid models feature detachable feet and corner columns, which enables the bins to nest when empty. This space-saving trick makes the bin an ideal container for agricultural harvests, closed loop freight, and storage. They’re able to hold more than 800 lbs. of freight, and they weigh in at only 54 lbs. each.

• 48″ x 44″ x 23″ Hybrid Short Shipper Fixed Wall Bulk Agricultural Bin

 

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Stronger Harvest Bulk Containers

This new take on a farm classic is poised to upset the U.S. agriculture transport market. This new bin is similar and stack-compatible with the traditional 48″ x 48″ harvest bins used by farms and food processors throughout the country. But this new version seeks to one-up the other bins with its structural and functional features, which include central strap guides, arched side wall supports, angled vents for added wall strength, increase drainage holes, and fork strike areas that are both angled and heavily reinforced. All this and a great price makes this bin the new standard for growers.

• 48″ x 48″ x 28″ Fixed Wall Bulk Container

 

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48 x 44 x 48 — 330 Gallon Collapsible IBCs

Our newest line of intermediate bulk containers (“IBCs”) is quickly becoming the new gold standard for efficiency in reusable liquid packaging. It’s touted as being the most space-efficient IBC on the market — both in terms of capacity and price. It has all the features found in most of the leading IBCs, such as reinforced walls, durable discharge valves, and four-way fork entry, but this new 330 gallon IBC also features an impressive 4:1 return ratio. Simply put, when empty, the bin’s side walls collapse and fold into one another, resulting in a folded height of less than 13″. Pretty impressive for a 330 gallon IBC.

• 48″ x 44″ x 48″ 330 Gallon Collapsible IBC with Bottom Discharge

 

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Nestable, Open Deck, Plastic Export Pallets

 

Though not the newest product in the market, this lightweight plastic export pallet continues to gain momentum as a new industry standard. This plastic pallet truly takes advantage of the strength and durability of plastic engineering. Weighing in at only 17 lbs., it is capable of carrying static loads up to 8,800 lbs. Its low cost, light weight, incredible strength, environmental-resistance, and space-saving nestable design make it an ideal solution for freight and one-way/export logistics. And compared to the troubles of heavy, contaminated, and broken wood pallets, it’s a no-brainer.

• 48″ x 40″ Nestable, Open Deck, One-Way Pallet

 

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AGV55 Handheld Agricultural Containers

The US agriculture industry is excited about the AGV55 line of harvest lugs. This full line of vented stack-and-nest agricultural containers is perfect for nearly every berry, fruit, vegetable, nut, or fungi. Their rugged, no-nonsense design gives them the durability harvesters need, while still providing exceptional ease of use. With solid (no moving parts), all food-grade, plastic construction, they’re built to last. Sizes range from 24″ x 16″ x 7″ all the way down to flats at heights of less than 3″.

• AGV55 Handheld Agricultural Containers

 

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Attached Lid Totes

Some things never go out of style. A common feature of countless loading docks, retail stores, distribution centers, and storage facilities, our attached lid containers remain an invaluable part of the reusable container ecosystem. These nestable totes save space, eliminate cardboard waste, and keep products organized, protected, and secure. Now available with plastic-hinged lids for increased durability, these totes are truly made to last. Though available in multiple sizes, the most popular size by far is the 27″ x 17″ x 12″ tote, which pair with bespoke dollies to ease handling and create efficiencies.

• 27″ x 17″ x 12″ Attached Lid Container

 

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1,800 and 1,500 Lbs. Rated, Industrial, Collapsible Bulk Containers

These black, collapsible bulk containers are ubiquitous in industrial manufacturing. Built large, 48″ x 45″ x 34″, they’re used to haul and store raw materials, parts, scrap, technology components, and much more. While the 1,800 lbs. capacity “G2” bulk container boasts a long history in the market, there’s now a contender seeking to upstage it. This new version has a lighter rated load capacity (1,500 lbs.), but it comes with a lower collapsed height (12.5″ vs. the original’s 12.8″), making it better optimized for truckload quantities. A 53′ trailer will accommodated 252 of the collapsed 1,500 lbs. capacity bins, compared to 234 of the 1,800 lbs. capacity bins. Both of these bulk containers are expected to continue rising in popularity this year as manufacturers continue to invest in reusable, sustainable container solutions.

• 48″ x 45″ x 34,” 1,500 lbs. Capacity Collapsible Bulk Container
• 48″ x 45″ x 34,” 1,800 lbs. Capacity Collapsible Bulk Container

 

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Custom Corrugated Plastic Packaging

With the European Union and other governing bodies continuing to crack down on single-use packaging and bags, there’s been a worldwide increase in demand for custom, reusable packaging. Corrugated plastic makes it possible for companies of all sizes to have sustainable packaging built to their specifications, while still keeping costs low. The inherently lightweight composition and all-weather durability of corrugated plastic reduces freight costs while ensuring the safety of goods. And, unlike injection molding or rotational molding, corrugated plastic packaging is inexpensive to customize and build-to-suit solutions can be created quickly.

• Custom Corrugated Plastic Packaging
• Stock Corrugated Plastic Packaging
• Contact RTP for a Custom Product Quote

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our newly redesigned website, ReusableTransportPackaging.com. We’re committed to providing the very best customer experience to our clients. This new website will serve as an online resource for those seeking information about the wide range of reusable packaging products in the market today.

Our new website features the most comprehensive inventory of reusable plastic products in the market today. Our inventory of more than 3,000 unique products features many of the world’s leading material handling, processing, and commercial packaging products, including plastic bulk containers, intermediate bulk containers, plastic pallets, distribution totes, harvest lugs, handheld bins, and more.

We hope that you enjoy this new site.In the coming weeks and months, we’ll continue to add more products and information as we strive to keep this the leading information website in the market today. Please let us know what you think!