When you’re planning to ship goods or items, one of the things you should consider is the packaging. Shipping crates are just among the many options available in the market. Now, if you want to determine if this packaging material suits your needs, keep reading this article. We’ll discuss everything you need to know about shipping crates.
Shipping Crate Sizes
Shipping crates and shipping containers are interchangeably used in the industry. So, you’ll commonly find crates as large as 20 feet and 40 feet. The 20-foot variant is the standard size that can hold up to 10 standard pallets. Meanwhile, the high cube container, which is about 40 feet, has a capacity of 2,390.
On the other hand, you’ll also find shipping crates Perth suppliers who customize the container’s size. For instance, if you’re transporting a single motorcycle, the packaging company may tailor the crate according to the item’s dimensions. Of course. They’ll follow international shipping standards when customizing the crate’s size.
Shipping Crate Materials
Aside from the varying sizes, crates also come in different materials. Here are the most common shipping crate materials:
- Wooden crates:If you’re after the more affordable option, go for the traditional material—wood. Wooden crates are typically used to transport bulkier and heavier items like construction equipment or machinery. So, you can recycle or repurpose it after use. Moreover, you can quickly repair the material when it gets damaged during transit.
- Steel crates:Now, if you want a packaging material that can endure impact and harsh weather, go for steel. Most of the time, people choose steel crates when transporting goods that need a high level of security. However, you should know that because the packaging material is heavy, you’ll need specialized equipment to move it around.
- Aluminium crates:This packaging material offers a balance between weight and durability. You can expect aluminium crates to withstand extreme temperatures while resisting corrosion. If you’re transporting goods that need temperature control, you should opt for aluminium. Besides, this material is lightweight. So, your items will be easier to transport and move.
Shipping Crate Benefits
We’ve already discussed the standard sizes and materials of shipping crates. Now, let’s talk about the advantages of choosing them as your packaging material.
Durability
Because most shipping crates are made with weather-resistant and robust materials, you can ensure that your goods will be transported securely. Depending on the material you choose, you can rest easy knowing that the items will have protection against heavy rain or extreme temperatures. Consequently, your goods will arrive at their destination in good condition.
Versatility
Another great thing about shipping crates is their versatility. You can use them to transport a wide range of goods, including large machinery and small electronic items. What’s more, you can customize crates according to your specific needs. So, if you’re planning to ship different things, using a crate would ensure you won’t have to use various packaging solutions.
Shipping Crate Disadvantages
Of course, like any other packaging material, shipping crates also have drawbacks. Here are some of the things you must consider:
Size
Because of their size, shipping crates take up a lot of space during transit and storage. So, if you have limited space for storing your crates, this problem may be a deal breaker. Moreover, some types of shipping crates can be difficult to manoeuvre. As such, you need to have specialized equipment for moving them around.
Cost
Using crates may not be the ideal solution if you’re not frequently shipping goods or items. On the other hand, if transporting products is part of your business, they may be an excellent long-term investment. Most shipping crates are durable and recyclable. So, you can use them whenever you need to transport items.
Wrapping Up
There are many reasons why shipping crates are a popular option for transporting goods. After all, they are durable and versatile. However, make sure that you consider their advantages and drawbacks. This way, you can decide whether this packaging solution suits your needs and budget.