Buy Used Plastic Crates in Portland

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.