Protective packaging is required across many industries to reduce en route damages and safely transport consumer items. Over the years, industries like wine and beverages, medical equipment, food distribution, and logistics have transitioned to using wood crates for more secure and stable packaging. Wood crates are a long-lasting, reusable, and environmentally friendly choice for packaging and transporting goods. Moreover, their sturdy construction protects the contents and provides an easy-to-maneuver feature for lift trucks and pallet jacks.
There are several wood crate options for product shipment, and it is critical to know which will work best for your specific application. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of quality wood crates, the risks of substandard ones, and the key factors to consider when selecting a wood crate supplier.
Characteristics of a Quality Wooden Crate
Choosing the right supplier for your requirements is critical, so you must first determine which manufacturer provides high-quality wood crates. Here are some of the most important characteristics of a quality crate that you should be aware of:
- The handles are properly positioned and securely attached. If handles are part of the design, look for those well-placed for ease of use.
- Screws, latches, and closures are securely fastened.
- The skids are properly positioned. These components keep your shipment off the ground and allow for easy mobility by machineries such as forklifts or pallet jacks. This feature is especially important when shipping large and heavy items.
- Appropriate labels are embedded correctly. These tags or markings should indicate how staff or workers should handle the wood crates.
Risks of Using Substandard Wood Crates
Using poorly constructed wood crates to package your products can have severe consequences. The following are some of the risks of using substandard containers:
Product Damages
Poorly-made wood crates can put your entire shipment at risk because there is no guarantee that the products inside will remain intact. In addition, low-quality construction materials are less durable and may not withstand the stresses and strains of transportation. For instance, wood crates made of thin plywood are more prone to holes and gashes, whereas low-quality lumber deforms when exposed to moisture.
Physical Injuries to Handlers
Crates that are poorly built or made of cheap materials endanger the people who will handle them during the transporting process. Every wood crate will come into contact with at least a few humans along the way, including those who will load your product, those who will transfer your package, and the person who will unload the crate. Some examples of dangers include splinters and lacerations.
Customer Dissatisfaction
The shipping crate will be the first thing your customer notices when your product arrives. A container with a poor appearance may cause customers to have doubts and uncertainties before they even see the product.
Key Considerations in Selecting the Right Wood Crates Supplier
With so many wood crates manufacturers to choose from, it is critical to consider the following factors before deciding on the best one:
Construction Quality
Examine how the manufacturer assembles the wood crates. Assess whether they have the necessary equipment, workspace, and personnel. To ensure construction quality, you can request a sample crate to evaluate its overall appearance closely.
Materials
The right kind of wood is essential when constructing wood crates. Determine which wood types and grades would be best for your needs, or ask the manufacturer for recommendations. You should also ensure they have high-quality fasteners, screws, and nails.
Here are some of the most commonly used lumber types for moving crates:
- Southern Yellow Pine: It is an inexpensive soft wood that is light and strong.
- Plywood: It comes in various thickness levels and is resistant to termites, mold, moisture and heat.
- Orient Strand Board: It is made up of various types of wood that are pressed together to form individual boards.
- Spruce: It is a hard tonewood with excellent workability and availability.
Meanwhile, the following are the most common lumber grades:
- Industrial Grade: It is a low-cost, low-quality lumber prone to distorting and missing knots.
- Utility Grade: It is a flatter and tougher lumber grade with fewer and smaller knots.
- Construction Grade: It is a sturdy, higher-quality lumber grade commonly used to frame homes and other structures.
Experience and Capabilities
Inquiring about the experience of a company allows you to ensure that it has demonstrated expertise in the projects you require. Ask for information about their products and the industries they serve. Furthermore, select a company capable of dealing with the various types and thicknesses of plywood, manufacturing methods, and applications of fasteners, among other things.
Pricing
Select a wood crate supplier that offers competitive prices without compromising quality. Obtaining quotes from various suppliers before comparing prices is also beneficial to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Choose E.W. Hannas For High-Quality Crates and Boxes
E.W. Hannas has the world’s largest consortium of wood manufacturing facilities — all of which adhere to our company’s strict standards. We have an extensive portfolio of exceptional wooden products, including crates, boxes, handles, buttons, and many others. We also offer private labeling, supply chain management, shipping and warehousing, and other wood assembly services.
Contact us today to learn more about our products and capabilities, or request a quote now!