Technical Guidance

Definition of parameters for our plastic crates

There is a set of parameters used to specify the different solutions and to describe them so they can be comparable.

Dimensions of the load unit

In Europe, the size of the crates is adapted to two standard pallet dimensions, which correspond to 1200x800 mm and 1200x1000 mm. Generally, these sizes correspond to the standard load units for the palletisation of most applications. Therefore, the size of the crates will be multiples of the pallet measurements used as a base, to enable a mosaic of crates to be constructed, optimising available space.

Other crate dimensions, such as height and internal dimensions, can vary between the different crate models and are defined by the external dimensions of the base. At Naeco Packaging we have the following sizes of plastic crates:

  • 600x400 mm: This dimension represents a fourth of the load unit of a European pallet measuring 1200x800 mm and likewise, a fifth of the load unit of a 1200x1000 mm pallet. This size is compatible with the two most wide-spread pallet types and is a highly reasonable measurement for handling.

Over time we will incorporate new crate sizes to our catalogue, with the aim of covering as many applications as possible.

Likewise, in the case of plastic crates, height is usually a critical dimension for any use. This dimension determines the internal volume of the crate, the total amount of product to transport, and the number of crates that can be moved in each journey. Different heights are available for each crate type, depending on the use and/or application, which can be consulted in the technical specifications.

With regards to our foldable crates, the difference must be noted between the open and folded heights.

  • Open height: This is the external height of the crate when opened and therefore during usage.
  • Folded height: This is the external height of the crate once folded down to optimise space once the container is empty.

In the case of nestable crates, the crate height never varies, and when stacking empty crates, some will slot into others. Here, the “nestable factor” must be taken into account, which is the protruding height of a crate that has been slotted into another. This element is essential to finding out the total amount of nestable crates that can be piled up in a tower. This data can be consulted in any of our technical specifications for nestable crates.

Therefore, it is important to know the internal measurements of the crates, as just like height, these dimensions will determine the internal volume of the crate. In the case of nestable crates, as they are conical, the average size in length and height is provided.

Volume

Usually, the load capacity of our plastic crates is fundamentally determined by its height and the type of load to be contained. Depending on its useful height, it has a specific load volume, which, depending on the use, will condition the load to be transported.

Load volume is one of the most frequent parameters used to define a crate, and it is identified by the external dimension, height and side thickness.

During the design and development of a new product, at Naeco Research we create load simulations and calculations to ensure the safety of the goods being transported, as well as their handling in the different environments and scenarios. Next, a series of product trials is carried out to ensure the resistance of our crates depending on their volume.

Crate weight

The weight of a plastic crate is one of the product’s most critical elements, as it conditions its price and at the same time, is determined by its characteristics, from its load capacity to its handling resistance. Generally, the taller the crate, and therefore the larger load volume, the heavier it will be due to the need for a larger amount of material.

Likewise, smooth or closed crates tend to use more material than perforated or open crates, which are usually lightened, meaning this parameter also directly affects the weight of the product.

It is important to consider the optimisation of the different designs available on the market. At Naeco Packaging, thanks to the most sophisticated design programmes and our broad knowledge, we create optimised products with the least amount of material possible. We can match or exceed other products with a slightly heavier weight if the quality and resistance of our solutions is not compromised.