Buy Used Plastic Crates in Idaho

Save Money on Storage: How to Buy Quality Used Plastic Crates in Idaho

Why read this? You'll learn exactly where to find affordable used plastic crates in Idaho, what to look for, and how to avoid common buying mistakes. This guide will help you cut storage costs by 50-70% compared to buying new.

What You'll Get from Used Plastic Crates

Used plastic crates offer serious benefits:

• Save money: Pay $2-4 per crate instead of $8-15 for new ones
• Get proven durability: These crates already survived real-world use
• Help the environment: Keep plastic out of landfills
• Find variety: More styles available than buying new

Where to Find Used Plastic Crates in Idaho

Best Local Sources

RePackify Locations:

• Nampa (83651)
• Idaho Falls (83402)
• Price: $3-4 per crate
• Stock: Milk crates, produce crates, stackable industrial crates
• Quantities: From hundreds to full truckloads

Online Marketplaces:

• Facebook Marketplace: Small lots, immediate pickup
• Craigslist: Local sellers, negotiate prices
• Agricultural cooperatives: End-of-season surplus

Other Options to Try

Ask These Local Businesses:

• Grocery stores (they replace crates regularly)
• Dairy farms (milk crates wear out)
• Produce packing houses (seasonal surplus)
• Manufacturing facilities (upgrade their containers)

Types of Used Crates You'll Find

Basic Milk Crates

• Size: 13" x 13" x 11"
• Best for: Small items, books, tools
• Example use: Home garage organization, small business storage

Produce Crates

• Features: Ventilated walls for airflow
• Best for: Fruits, vegetables, items needing air circulation
• Example use: Farmers market vendors, restaurant storage

Industrial Stackable Crates

• Size: Often 48" x 40" footprint
• Features: Heavy-duty construction
• Best for: Manufacturing parts, warehouse storage
• Example use: Auto shops, construction companies

Collapsible Crates

• Features: Fold flat when empty
• Space savings: Up to 80% less storage space
• Best for: Businesses with varying storage needs
• Example use: Delivery companies, seasonal businesses

What to Pay for Used Crates

Small Quantities (1-10 crates)

• Price: $3-6 each
• Best for: Home use, small projects
• Pickup: Usually required

Medium Orders (100+ crates)

• Price: $2-4 each
• Volume discounts: Often available
• Shipping: May be included

Large Orders (Full truckload)

• Price: $1.50-3 each
• Best deals: Direct from recycling centers
• Shipping: Usually included

How to Buy Smart

Before You Buy

Check the Condition:

• Look for cracks (especially at corners)
• Test if they stack properly
• Make sure handles aren't broken
• Example: A cracked corner means the crate won't last

Verify Cleanliness:

• Ask about cleaning process
• Check for stains or odors
• Important if storing food items
• Example: Old dairy crates may smell sour

Measure Carefully:

• Bring a tape measure
• Check your shelf dimensions first
• Make sure crates fit your space
• Example: 13" crates won't fit 12" shelves

During Purchase

Ask These Questions:

• "How many do you have in stock?"
• "Can I see them before buying?"
• "What's your return policy?"
• "Do you offer delivery?"

Negotiate When Possible:

• Buying 50+ crates? Ask for a discount
• Point out any damage for price reduction
• Compare prices from multiple sellers
• Example: "I found similar crates for $2 each elsewhere"

After Purchase

Inspect Your Delivery:

• Count all crates immediately
• Check each one for damage
• Report problems right away
• Keep your receipt

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't Buy Without Seeing:

• Photos can hide damage
• Always inspect in person when possible
• Example: Online photos rarely show bottom cracks

Don't Forget About Transportation:

• 100 crates won't fit in a car
• Factor in delivery costs
• Example: $50 delivery fee on a $200 order changes your math

Don't Assume All Crates Are the Same:

• Milk crates differ from produce crates
• Industrial crates are much larger
• Example: Buying the wrong size means starting over

Getting Started

Your First Purchase:

Start small (10-20 crates)

Visit RePackify in Nampa or Idaho Falls

Inspect before buying

Test them at home

Return for more if satisfied

For Larger Needs:

Contact local recycling centers

Get quotes from multiple sources

Arrange delivery

Build relationships with suppliers

Used plastic crates solve storage problems without breaking your budget. Start with a small purchase to test quality, then scale up once you find reliable suppliers. Most Idaho buyers save hundreds of dollars compared to buying new while getting containers that last for years.