Looking to cut down on transportation and storage costs for your business? One of the best ways to do that is by investing in stack and nest containers or totes. Unlike traditional wooden pallets, these containers are lightweight, environmentally friendly, and easy to clean. They’re a great choice when space is at a premium.
Below, learn why stack and nest plastic bins are taking the logistics industry by storm, then contact ORBIS to learn about our storage and shipping solutions.
How Do Stack and Nest Containers Work?
Stack and nest containers, also called nesting totes, are quickly becoming all the rage in logistics. Part of the reason why is that, unlike rigid pallets, they’re a snap to stack when not in use.
Stack and nest containers boast top-notch durability and have many versatile applications:
- Nesting containers are a must-have in warehouses. They’re great for storing parts and are easy to stack when inventory runs low.
- Stack and nest containers save an impressive amount of space during transportation. They also weigh less than traditional pallets, helping companies save on fuel costs.
- Nesting containers are ideal for retail shops, especially those without shelving. These containers can be used to display products and stacked out of sight when not in use.
- Because plastic containers can be easily cleaned and sanitized, they’re a good choice for companies that process raw meat and fish products.
The Many Perks of Stack and Nest Containers
Stack and nest containers offer many advantages in logistics. Learn about their benefits below.
They Offer Impressive Transportation Cost Savings
If packing your trucks feels like playing a game of Tetris, you’ll be glad you invested in stack and nest containers. These containers fit seamlessly with one another, sparing you from the headache of trying to jam oddly shaped packages into your truck.
Plus, plastic containers are incredibly lightweight compared to wood pallets, which can weigh between 30 and 70 pounds. Plastic storage containers, on the other hand, can weigh just a couple of pounds or even less. Lighter storage containers weigh your trucks down less, which means big savings on fuel.
The Space Efficiency Is Second to None
One of the best benefits of plastic containers is the space savings they offer. You can stack up to nine nesting containers, allowing you to make good use of vertical space.
When you don’t need your containers, simply nest them together and store them away. It’s far easier to store nested containers than it is to find a place for big, bulky pallets.
Care About Environmental Sustainability? You’ll Love These Containers
Some companies avoid plastic containers because they believe they are less sustainable than wood. Opponents of plastic containers and packaging have demonized the material for years, but unfairly.
It’s easy to purchase nesting containers made from recycled plastic that would’ve otherwise ended up in the ocean or a landfill. Plus, unlike wood pallets that can rot or break after a few uses, plastic containers last for decades with good care. They’re made from highly durable polypropylene or polyethylene, which resists moisture, heat, impacts, and chemicals.
If your business cares about its carbon footprint, save a tree and stick with plastic.
They Feature Automated System Compatibility
Stack and nest containers work beautifully with many automated systems, such as conveyor lines and systems that automatically retrieve items from shelves. Because the containers nest perfectly when stacked, moving items down your assembly line is easy.
The faster you do this, the more items your business can process. You’ll also rely less on manual labor, translating into big savings.
They’re Easy To Keep Clean
Wood’s main disadvantage is that it easily absorbs liquids. If you’re packing meat on a wood pallet and one of the packages leaks, sanitizing the contaminated pallet would be difficult, leaving disposal as your only option.
Plastic containers, on the other hand, stand up to the most vigorous cleaning methods. You can clean yours with hot water, detergent, or chemical solutions without worrying about damage.
Plastic Containers Are a Snap To Customize
Do you have bulky or oddly shaped products that won’t fit in a standard-sized container? No problem. Many logistics supply companies, such as ORBIS, allow you to customize your nesting containers to suit your needs.
You can choose the size, shape, and color of your nesting and stacking containers. We can also design your containers with handles and/or lids to make them even easier to use.
Looking for the Best Stack and Nest Containers? Call ORBIS
At ORBIS, we specialize in custom-designed stack and nest containers, as well as plastic pallets for the logistics industry. Read more of our blog to learn tips on cleaning plastic pallets the right w