Shipping costs are on the rise. Companies spent a record $1.5 trillion on shipping in 2017. But the good news is that your business can lower the cost of shipping by switching to bulk containers. Bulk containers help you maximize efficiency in the workplace, while reducing the overall cost of each shipment. Learn more about the benefits of using bulk containers for one-way shipping.

The Benefits of Bulk Containers

• Durable

Collapsible plastic bulk containers are extremely durable. They’re typically made with lightweight plastic that protects your goods from the elements, unlike cardboard boxes, which can easily fall apart or disintegrate when exposed to moisture. With reinforced walls, you also won’t have to spend as much on packaging materials like plastic peanuts and foam, both of which are bad for the environment.

You and your customers can rest assured that your products will arrive intact. With fewer returns, you won’t have to ship as many packages and you can keep your customers satisfied every step of the way.

• Versatile

Plastic bulk containers allow for versatile storage. In fact, plastic containers are among the most versatile containers on the market. You can find FDA-approved food-grade containers for shipping food and medicine. These containers are also suitable for industrial materials and equipment. You don’t have to purchase different kinds of containers when shipping your goods. You can order containers in bulk and save money on shipping.

• Lightweight

Shipping is calculated by size and weight. If you want to lower your shipping costs, you need to reduce the weight of your packages. Plastic containers are among the lightest shipping materials on earth. They’re lighter than those made with metal, wood and other materials. If you plan on sending your packages by air, which is the most expensive shipping method, plastic is always the best way to go.

• Cost-Effective

Plastic containers tend to cost less than most shipping containers, but they also help you condense your products in as few containers as possible. You won’t have to pay for as many shipments if your goods are going to the same place. Put everything in the same container to save money on supplies and shipping costs.

• Collapsible or Stackable

If you find collapsible or stackable plastic containers, you can make the most of your warehouse space. You can easily move these containers to the side when they’re not in use to make more room in your facility. Your employees can make better use of their time by not having to assemble boxes and packages. They can quickly grab a bin or container, load it up and send it on its way.

• Simplify Your Shipping Schedule

Bulk containers also help you simplify your shipping schedule. If you send out fewer containers, you won’t have to arrange for as many deliveries or pick-ups. This reduces transportation and labor costs. Your employees won’t have to work around the clock if you’re only sending out a few containers. Your team can quickly get back on track without having to load as many containers onto the truck.

Using Plastic Pallets

Plastic pallets are another benefit of using bulk plastic containers for shipping. It’s best to use plastic pallets when shipping out these kinds of containers. Wood pallets can easily spread debris and may fall apart over time. All wood shipping materials, including pallets, also need to be heated and treated according to international regulations to prevent the spread of wood-borne insects and diseases. This can be time-consuming and expensive for your business. If traveling overseas, it may take longer for your packages to make it through customs, which can delay your shipments.

Just like plastic containers, plastic pallets are lightweight, durable and versatile to help you lower your shipping costs. They also improve the working conditions of your facility. Your employees won’t have to worry about accidentally cutting themselves on a piece of wood or tripping on debris.

Even when it comes to one-way shipping, it’s best to invest in reliable, durable shipping containers to keep your goods safe and sound. You can also reuse plastic containers and pallets so you don’t have to keep buying new shipping materials. These products are also easy to recycle, reducing your company’s impact on the environment. Save money and the planet with bulk plastic containers.