Finding the Perfect Crate Design

Determining the optimal crate design can be difficult. Multiple materials, different designs and countless closure methods create unlimited choices for wooden crates.

Asking the right questions allows crate designers to accurately optimize a crate for the product it transports.

Crate designers must focus on four basic package functions to drive their decisions.  
These four functions are:

1. Containment
   This is the most basic of the package functions. Containment means the crate should contain the product. A lawnmower could use an open frame crate, but a crate of bearings may need to be sheathed and have solid walls for extra containment
     
2. Protection
   How much packaging is too much? Once the product is contained, then it must be protected. The three general environments that the product needs protection from are: physical, ambient, and human. Each environment creates different challenges for the design of the crate.
     
3. Convenience (Utility)
   The convenience of the crate is paramount for shipping, customer experience (ergonomics), and the overall ease of use. Taking into account how the crate will be handled, opened, and unpacked are all important factors that must be taken into account when designing the crate.
    
4. Labeling/Branding
   What visible information is needed on the crate exterior throughout the distribution environment? Some significant information includes UPC, proper handling instructions, assembly instructions, shipping details, international markings, safety and more.
   
   

Is your crate meeting all the requirements needed to contain, protect, and distribute your products? Tell us about your successes and challenges in the comments below.

Post by: Kent Longardner, Technical Sales Manager