Buy Used Gaylord Boxes in Chicago

Save Money on Shipping: Buy Used Gaylord Boxes in Chicago

You can cut your shipping costs by 50-70% and help the environment by buying used Gaylord boxes instead of new ones.

What You Get With Used Gaylord Boxes

Used Gaylord boxes cost much less than new ones but work just as well. A typical used box costs $5-15, while a new one costs $25-45. You also help the environment by keeping boxes out of landfills.

These large shipping containers handle heavy loads safely. Most hold 1,000 to 5,000 pounds and measure about 4 feet wide, 3 feet deep, and 3 feet tall.

What Are Gaylord Boxes?

Think of a Gaylord box as a giant cardboard box that sits on a wooden pallet. The walls are thick - usually 3 to 5 layers of cardboard - so they don't break when you stack them or move them with a forklift.

The name comes from the company that first made them popular in the 1980s. Today, people also call them bulk boxes, pallet containers, or shipping bins.

Who Uses Them and Why

Food companies ship ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices in bulk.

Manufacturers move parts, scraps, and finished products between factories.

Stores transport merchandise from warehouses to retail locations.

Charities collect and move donated clothes, toys, and household items.

Moving companies pack and transport household goods during relocations.

Common Sizes You Can Find

The most popular size is 48 inches long, 40 inches wide, and 36 inches tall. This fits on a standard pallet and holds about 2,000 pounds.

Other common sizes include:

• 45 x 45 x 40 inches (for square items)
• 36 x 36 x 36 inches (smaller loads)
• 48 x 40 x 42 inches (taller items)

Wall Thickness Matters

2-layer walls: Good for light items up to 100 pounds. Cost $5-7 used.

3-layer walls: Handle medium loads up to 200 pounds. Cost $7-9 used.

4-layer walls: Strong enough for 1,000+ pounds. Cost $9-12 used.

5-layer walls: Heavy-duty for 2,000+ pounds. Cost $12-15 used.

Choose based on what you're shipping. Books need stronger walls than clothes.

How Much They Cost in Chicago

For individual boxes: $5-15 each depending on size and condition.

For truck loads (500 boxes): $5-10 each with free delivery.

Prices change based on supply. During busy seasons like holidays, expect to pay more.

Where to Buy in Chicago

Local industrial suppliers often have the best selection and fastest delivery. Look for companies that have been around for years and offer guarantees.

Online marketplaces connect you with multiple sellers so you can compare prices quickly.

Recycling companies buy boxes from businesses and resell them at lower prices.

Call ahead to check what sizes they have in stock. Most suppliers deliver free for orders over 10 boxes.

Why Used Boxes Help the Environment

Making one new Gaylord box requires about 50 pounds of fresh cardboard, water for processing, and energy for manufacturing.

When you buy used, you:

• Save trees from being cut down
• Reduce factory emissions
• Keep boxes out of landfills
• Support recycling businesses

One used box prevents about 80 pounds of waste from being created.

How to Get Started

Step 1: Figure out what size you need. Measure your products and add 2 inches on each side.

Step 2: Decide how many boxes you need per month. This helps you get better prices.

Step 3: Call 3-5 suppliers for quotes. Prices vary a lot between companies.

Step 4: Ask about delivery costs and minimum orders. Some charge extra for small orders.

Step 5: Check the boxes when they arrive. Good suppliers replace damaged ones for free.

What to Look For

Clean inside: No stains, odors, or leftover materials.

Strong corners: Corners shouldn't be crushed or torn.

Straight walls: Walls should stand upright without sagging.

Good bottom: The pallet should be solid with no broken boards.

Avoid boxes that smell like chemicals or have water damage.

Getting the Best Deal

Buy in bulk: 50+ boxes usually get you wholesale prices.

Order ahead: Don't wait until you're out of boxes. Rushed orders cost more.

Mix sizes: Some suppliers give discounts when you buy different sizes together.

Pick up yourself: Save on delivery fees if you have a truck.

Build relationships: Regular customers often get better prices and first pick of new inventory.

Storage Tips

Keep boxes in a dry place. Moisture makes cardboard weak.

Stack them properly - heavier boxes on bottom, lighter on top.

Don't store them outside. Rain and sun damage the cardboard quickly.

Check them every few months for pest damage or mold.

The Bottom Line

Used Gaylord boxes give you the same protection as new ones at half the price. They're perfect for businesses that ship regularly but want to control costs.

Chicago has plenty of suppliers, so you can always find what you need. Start with small orders to test quality, then buy in bulk once you find a good supplier.

Your wallet and the environment will thank you.