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.