A wooden shipping crate is a sturdy container specifically designed to securely transport goods, particularly over long distances .A wooden shipping crate consists of several key parts:
- Sides
These are the larger, rectangular panels that form the vertical walls of the crate. They are usually made from plywood or OSB for their strength and stability.
- Ends:
These are shorter panels compared to the sides, forming the front and back of the crate. They are also typically made from plywood or OSB.
- Top (Lid)
This is the uppermost panel that covers the crate’s opening. It can be attached with hinges for easy access (hinged lid) or simply rest on top and secured with screws or nails (loose lid). Some crates may have a slip-lid that slides over the top for a tighter seal.
- Base (Deck)
This is the bottom panel of the crate. Similar to the top, it can be attached (fixed base) or loose (removable base) depending on the design. For crates with heavy contents, a fixed base with added reinforcement might be used.
- Cleats (Optional):
These are triangular or L-shaped wooden blocks attached to the crate for additional strength. They can be placed on corners or along the edges, especially for crates that will endure heavy weight or rough handling.
- Blocks and Runners (Optional)
This is a setup used to elevate the crate off the ground, typically for storage or pallet handling. Blocks are vertical supports made from wood, often presswood, and runners are horizontal boards made from plywood that connect the blocks.
By combining these parts, wooden shipping crates provide a sturdy and secure enclosure for transporting various goods.