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Frequently AskedQuestions
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Products
What is a gaylord box?
A gaylord box is a large corrugated container used for bulk shipping and storage. They typically sit on pallets and can hold 1,500-3,500 lbs depending on wall thickness. The name "gaylord" comes from the Gaylord Container Corporation, which popularized this style of container.
What are the pallet grades (A, B, C)?
Grade A pallets are like-new with minimal wear. Grade B pallets have some cosmetic wear but are structurally sound. Grade C pallets show visible wear and repairs but remain functional. All grades are safe for use; the difference is primarily cosmetic.
What is the difference between food-grade and industrial IBC totes?
Food-grade IBC totes have white HDPE bottles, documented clean history, and meet FDA requirements for food contact. Industrial IBCs may have colored bottles and have contained non-food chemicals. Never use an industrial IBC for food products.
Do you sell new containers?
Yes, while we specialize in used containers, we also stock new gaylord boxes, pallets, and IBC totes. New products are available at competitive prices when you need them.
What sizes of gaylord boxes do you carry?
We stock common sizes including 40"x48"x36", 48"x40"x48", and 48"x45"x34". We can also source custom sizes upon request. Most of our gaylords fit standard 48"x40" pallets.
What is a rebottled IBC tote?
A rebottled IBC has a brand-new HDPE bottle installed in a cleaned and inspected used steel cage. This gives you new-bottle performance at a fraction of the cost of a completely new unit.
What is the weight capacity of a standard gaylord box?
Capacity varies by wall type: single wall (up to 500 lbs), double wall (up to 1,200 lbs), triple wall (up to 2,000 lbs), and quad wall (up to 2,500+ lbs). Always choose based on your heaviest expected contents.
Ordering & Pricing
What is your minimum order quantity?
We don't have strict minimums, but pricing is most competitive on larger orders. For small quantities, contact us directly and we'll work out the best solution for your needs.
How quickly can I get a quote?
We typically respond to quote requests within 24 hours, often same-day during business hours. For urgent needs, mention it in your request and we'll prioritize your quote.
Do you offer volume discounts?
Yes, we offer tiered pricing based on quantity. The more you order, the better your per-unit price. Contact us with your quantity needs for specific pricing.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept checks, ACH transfers, and credit cards. For new customers, we may require payment in advance. Established accounts can apply for net terms.
Delivery & Pickup
Where do you deliver?
We deliver throughout California, from San Diego to Sacramento and everywhere in between. We can also arrange delivery outside California through our logistics partners.
How much does delivery cost?
Delivery cost depends on distance, quantity, and type of containers. We provide delivery quotes along with product pricing. Bulk orders often qualify for free or discounted delivery.
Do you offer pickup?
Yes, customers are welcome to pick up orders from our facility. We'll help with loading. Contact us to schedule a pickup time.
What is your lead time for delivery?
For in-stock items, we can typically deliver within 3-5 business days. Rush delivery is available for urgent needs. Custom orders may take longer.
Services
Do you buy back containers?
Absolutely! We purchase used gaylords, pallets, and IBC totes in any condition. Contact us for a quote on your surplus containers.
Can you repair damaged containers?
Yes, we offer repair services for pallets, gaylords, and IBC totes. Repairing is often more cost-effective than replacing, and extends the useful life of your containers.
What happens to containers that can't be reused?
Containers that can't be repaired go to our recycling program. We ensure materials are properly processed - cardboard goes to paper mills, wood becomes mulch, and plastics are granulated for remanufacturing.
Do you offer container management programs?
Yes, we can set up recurring delivery schedules, buyback programs, and container tracking for businesses with ongoing needs. Contact us to discuss a custom program.
Can you clean IBC totes?
Yes, we offer professional IBC cleaning services including standard rinse, pressure wash, and food-grade triple rinse. We can prepare IBCs for new contents or return them to food-grade specification.
Do you offer heat-treated pallets for export?
Yes, we stock ISPM-15 compliant heat-treated pallets with the official HT stamp for international shipping. Heat treatment kills pests and meets international phytosanitary requirements.
Sustainability
How does buying used containers help the environment?
Every reused container is one less in a landfill. Used containers require no new raw materials, saving trees, water, and energy. Our customers typically reduce their packaging carbon footprint by 40-60% by choosing used.
What is your recycling rate?
We achieve a 95%+ recovery rate on materials. Cardboard is baled for paper mills, wood is chipped for mulch or biomass, and plastics are granulated for remanufacturing. Very little goes to landfill.
Do you provide sustainability reports for customers?
Yes, for customers with regular orders, we can provide reports documenting containers reused, materials recycled, and estimated environmental impact. This is useful for corporate sustainability reporting.
International & Compliance
What is ISPM-15?
ISPM-15 is the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15. It requires wood packaging materials for international shipment to be heat-treated or fumigated to prevent pest spread. We stock compliant HT pallets.
Can I use any pallet for food products?
For direct food contact, use only food-grade pallets (typically plastic or new wood). For packaged food, Grade A or B wood pallets are generally acceptable. Check with your food safety requirements.
Are your IBC totes UN certified for hazardous materials?
Some of our steel IBCs are UN certified for hazmat transport. If you need UN-rated containers, specify this in your request and we'll confirm availability and certification.