Packaging of products is one of the biggest, if not the most troublesome concern for merchants. Packaging is not only important for safeguarding the products but also offers a wide range of other business benefits. Recently, the issues about shipping plastic containers have become notable concerns for sellers in the ecommerce industry. Starting from product safety to the issues in shipping time, plastic bins can be more of a problem than a solution. How can you find whether plastic bins are a suitable choice for shipping? The following post helps you find some answers to your doubts about using plastic bins or containers for shipping.
Plastic bins can seem like an ideal choice for shipping products - they are durable, reusable, and protect items from damage. However, there are some important considerations when using plastic containers for shipping goods long distances.
Plastic bins offer some useful advantages as shipping containers:
However, plastic bins also come with some downsides to consider:
If you do opt to use plastic shipping containers, follow these tips:
Plastic shipping bins can be a smart choice for some situations, but have limitations over long distances. Weigh the pros and cons to decide if they are suitable for your specific shipping needs. With proper precautions plastic containers can safely deliver products, but traditional cardboard shipping boxes reduce risks.
Recommended: Where To Get Shipping Boxes
Plastic bins can be safe for shipping if you choose durable bins rated for shipping, secure the lids, and use internal padding. However, plastics provide less protection from impacts than cardboard boxes.
Benefits of plastic shipping containers include being lightweight, inexpensive, reusable, waterproof, allowing visibility of contents, and stacking efficiently. Some types are also environmentally friendly.
Avoid using plastic bins to ship sharp objects that could puncture the plastic or heavy items that may be damaged if the bin breaks open. Also avoid odd shaped items that leave empty internal space.
Yes, USPS does allow use of plastic bins for Priority Mail shipping as long as they are under 70 pounds, meet dimension requirements, and have any voids filled with packing material.
Check carrier restrictions before using plastic containers, as some major carriers like FedEx and UPS do not allow them. If they are not accepted, place plastic bins inside cardboard boxes.
To prevent shipping damage in plastic bins, choose thick and durable bins, wrap sharp items, fill internal voids tightly, secure the lid with strong tape/straps, and label the bin clearly with contents.
Yes, some plastic shipping bin manufacturers use recycled plastics or plant-based materials. These eco-friendly bins provide sustainability without sacrificing protection or durability.