Buy Used Plastic Crates in Portland

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Portland Supplier & Recycler of Used Plastic Crates

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.

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