November can put storage and handling systems under extra pressure as increased stock volumes, busier workstations and changing customer demand can reveal existing containers simply aren't right for the job.
This month, our three special offers include a used heavy-duty swingbar container, a ventilated Euro catering tray and an Allibin small parts storage bin. Each solves a different storage or handling challenge.
Used stack/nest swingbar container
Designed with distribution and warehousing in mind, this versatile heavy-duty plastic container has external dimensions of 600 x 400 x 190mm and weighs 1.7kg. A 38-litre container, it offers a useful combination of capacity and a relatively low profile.
When the containers are holding goods, their swingbar design allows them to be stacked. When empty, the bars can be moved, allowing them to nest inside one another. This type of stacking container is useful for a distribution operation, for example.
With perforated sides and base to provide ventilation, integrated handholes help with manual lifting and handling. The boxes have been lightly used and are in good condition, although buyers should expect stickers as part of their previous use.
Think beyond capacity
A container’s capacity tells only part of the story. While a larger size might sound ideal, it’s no use if its footprint doesn't work with your existing shelving, pallets or available workspace. Equally, a smaller container may need to be refilled so frequently that it creates unnecessary handling.
Before buying, consider the external dimensions in relation to the space where it will be used, and the internal dimensions to ascertain whether the goods will fit comfortably. It's also worth following the journey of stock through the business. Does a container remain on a shelf, or does it move between production, picking, packing and despatch? Will it be transported on pallets? What happens to the empty containers afterwards? Answering these questions can make it easier to choose storage systems that work with an existing process.
Euro plastic catering tray
Our eight-litre plastic catering tray, measures 555 x 355 x 39mm internally. It isn't intended as an all-purpose catering container and won't accommodate taller or bulkier products, but where a low-profile tray is required, its dimensions are an advantage.
Our ventilated plastic trays are manufactured from food-grade polypropylene, making them useful for various catering processes where airflow is beneficial such as cooling, proofing, drying and temperature regulation. Potential applications include holding pasta, fruit, meat, produce and baked goods. With resistance to chemicals, they are also suitable for freezing and dishwashing.
Their standard 600 x 400mm Euro footprint means they can interstack with other European crates, simplifying palletisation where compatible containers from different manufacturers are in use.
The shallow design and stacking ability means rather than placing items in unnecessarily deep containers, businesses can choose storage more closely matched to the product. Lightly used, our plastic storage boxes are clean and show barely any evidence of previous use.
We have a large quantity available, making this offer particularly relevant to businesses looking for multiple matching trays. Bulk discounts are available, with 100 units from £2.25 each and 225 units from £1.95 each (excluding VAT).
Getting more from existing space
Good storage is often about making better use of what's already there. A deep container filled with shallow items may technically do the job, but leave a large amount of unused vertical space. Similarly, storing small components in oversized boxes can make picking slower as employees search through mixed contents.
Matching the container to the contents can help create a more practical flow of goods through a workplace. Standardised footprints can also be useful where containers move between shelving, workstations and pallets. In some environments, easy access to individual components may be more important than enclosed storage.
Small parts plastic storage bin
The third November offer takes us away from distribution crates and catering trays and into component storage.
Measuring 360mm deep, 215mm wide and 200mm high, this small parts storage bin provides more room for larger components, or greater quantities of frequently used items. Each bin weighs 0.76kg and has a unit load capacity of 15kg, with a stacked load capacity of 105kg.
Its open-front design is central to how the bin works, as the contents remain accessible even when multiple containers are stacked. This can make a plastic picking bin particularly practical at workstations or in picking areas where the same components are accessed repeatedly throughout the day.
The larger capacity also opens up different possibilities. Instead of very small fixings or low quantities of individual parts, it can accommodate larger components or greater stock volumes. An integral label holder makes the contents easier to identify. The bins can be stacked, slotted together or attached to compatible louvred panels, bench units and trolleys.
Solent Plastics currently has a substantial quantity available, so the 13-litre Allibin may be worth considering where a number of workstations or picking positions need the same storage format.
Look at the storage journey
One useful way to assess storage is to follow an item from arrival to departure. Ask questions, such as where does it go first? How often is it handled? Does someone need instant access? Does it require ventilation? Will the container eventually return empty and is it occupying more space than the contents require? Mismatches can become more noticeable when they're repeated hundreds of times across a working week.
November's special offers provide a good opportunity to consider how your storage system is performing and whether changing the containers can make everyday operations work more efficiently.