Buy Used Plastic Crates in Portland, OR

Save Money and Help the Planet: Your Guide to Finding Used Plastic Crates in Portland

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used plastic crates in Portland for 50-70% less than new ones, plus help reduce waste.

Why Buy Used Plastic Crates?

You get three big wins:

• Save money: Used crates cost much less than new ones

• Help the environment: Keep plastic out of landfills

• Get the same quality: These crates last for years

For example, a new plastic crate might cost $25. The same crate used? Often just $8-12.

What Are Plastic Crates?

Think of those sturdy boxes you see at grocery stores. Plastic crates are:

• Strong containers for storage and moving

• Stackable to save space

• Easy to carry with built-in handles

• Washable and reusable

Common uses:

• Moving boxes

• Garage storage

• Farmers market displays

• Office organization

Best Places to Find Used Plastic Crates

Reclaimed Building Material Stores

These nonprofit stores sell donated building supplies and storage items.

Why they're great:

• Lowest prices

• Items are cleaned and checked

• Your money supports good causes

• Staff can help you find what you need

What to expect:

• Inventory changes daily

• Prices clearly marked

• You can inspect before buying

• Usually open during regular business hours

Packaging Supply Companies

Some packaging companies sell returned or surplus crates.

Why they're useful:

• Larger quantities available

• Business-grade quality

• Delivery options

• Bulk pricing

What to know:

• Call ahead to check inventory

• May require minimum purchase

• Better for businesses than individuals

Recycling Centers

These places sometimes have plastic crates that were dropped off but are still good.

Why they work:

• Very low prices

• Helping prevent waste

• Supporting local recycling

What to expect:

• Limited and unpredictable inventory

• Call before visiting

• Cash only at most places

• First come, first served

Online Options

Don't forget these places:

• Craigslist (search "plastic crate" or "storage bin")

• Facebook Marketplace

• Nextdoor app

• OfferUp

Pro tip: Set up alerts for keywords like "plastic crate," "storage crate," or "moving boxes."

How to Check if a Used Crate is Good

Before you buy, check these things:

Look for damage:

• Cracks in the plastic

• Broken corners or edges

• Missing handles

• Warped shape

Test the strength:

• Press on the sides - they shouldn't bend easily

• Check if the lid fits tight

• Make sure it stacks properly

Check the cleanliness:

• Most dirt washes off easily

• Avoid crates with permanent stains

• Skip anything that smells bad

What to Pay

Here's what you should expect to pay:

Small crates (shoebox size): $3-8

Medium crates (file box size): $5-12

Large crates (moving box size): $8-20

Compare this to new prices that are often 2-3 times higher.

How to Clean and Care for Used Crates

Cleaning:

• Use warm soapy water

• Add a little bleach for disinfecting

• Scrub with a brush for stubborn dirt

• Rinse well and let dry

Making them last longer:

• Store indoors when possible

• Don't overload beyond their weight limit

• Stack carefully to avoid warping

• Keep out of direct sunlight

Best Times to Shop

When inventory is highest:

• Spring cleaning season (March-May)

• Back-to-school time (August-September)

• After holidays when businesses clean out

When prices are lowest:

• End of month at nonprofits

• Slow business periods

• When buying multiple crates

Questions to Ask When Shopping

• What condition grade is this crate?

• Is there a return policy?

• Do you offer bulk pricing?

• When do you get new inventory?

• Can you hold items for pickup?

Getting the Best Deal

Tips for saving more:

• Buy multiple crates at once

• Ask about bulk discounts

• Shop at nonprofit stores (often cheapest)

• Check multiple places before deciding

• Consider slightly imperfect crates for bigger savings

Why This Matters

When you buy used plastic crates, you're not just saving money. You're:

• Keeping plastic out of landfills

• Reducing demand for new plastic production

• Supporting local businesses and nonprofits

• Getting quality storage solutions

Real impact: Every used crate you buy prevents about 2-3 pounds of plastic from becoming waste.

Getting Started

Your action plan:

Decide how many crates you need

Set a budget

Call 2-3 places to check inventory

Visit and inspect before buying

Clean your crates before first use

Start with reclaimed building material stores - they usually have the best selection and prices for individual buyers.

Remember: buying used plastic crates is a smart choice that saves money and helps the environment. With a little effort, you can find exactly what you need at a fraction of the cost of new ones.