Cardboard boxes serve numerous purposes for various industries, including food and agriculture. Companies can use these containers to ship, store, and distribute items such as fruits, vegetables, and other produce products. Large cardboard boxes are especially beneficial for handling and transporting bulky or heavy produce. Follow along as we explore the type of produce to put in large cardboard boxes, packing tips, and what to look for in produce bins.
Produce Perfect for Cardboard Boxes
Grocery stores and farmers markets use cardboard boxes to ship produce from warehouses to stores. Let’s go over some of the most common types of produce that are suitable for cardboard packaging.
Apples
Apples are an ideal candidate for cardboard boxes. They require good airflow to stay fresh, and cardboard provides the necessary breathability. Packing apples in single layers with protective dividers prevents bruising and damage during transport.
Citrus Fruits
Oranges, lemons, and limes are also great cardboard box options. Like apples, they require good ventilation to maintain their freshness.
Potatoes
Whether you have russet, golden, red, or sweet potatoes, cardboard boxes make a great storage option. This packing material offers a dark and dry space that reduces the risk of potatoes rotting.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are another produce type that does well in cardboard. Their sensitive skin can easily bruise if not packed properly. Use layers of cushioning material and avoid stacking them too high to maintain their quality.
Melons
Due to their size and weight, melons such as watermelons and cantaloupes are often difficult to transport. However, using large cardboard boxes can make the task easier. The sturdy walls and cushioning of cardboard watermelon bins will protect the melons during shipping while still allowing enough ventilation for freshness.
Pumpkins
Pumpkins are another type of produce to put in large cardboard boxes.This beloved fall staple can be heavy, so durable cardboard boxes are great for shipping and displaying them.
Nuts and Seeds
Although we often associate produce with fruits and vegetables, you can also use produce bins to ship other foods, such as nuts and seeds. By using cardboard boxes with dividers, you can keep them organized and protected during transit.
Tips for Packing Produce in Cardboard Boxes
The proper packing of produce further reduces the risk of it getting damaged during transit. Shop for durable boxes, add cushioning, and avoid overpacking to best protect your produce.
Use Durable Boxes
When purchasing produce boxes for produce, look for those made from high-quality cardboard. They should be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of produce and any potential rough handling during shipping.
Verify the size and weight restrictions before ordering a supply of boxes. For example, if you ship watermelons and pumpkins, you may need a stronger box than one for tomatoes.
Add Cushioning
Protect produce with cushioning materials like plastic cartons or food-safe corrugated sheets to partition space between products or layers. These materials absorb shocks during transportation, reducing the risk of bruising. Proper cushioning is especially important for delicate items such as berries and tomatoes.
Avoid Overpacking Boxes
Overpacking is a common mistake that can lead to damaged produce. Ensure there is enough space between each item to allow for airflow and movement without excessive jostling. Overpacked boxes can lead to crushed produce, reducing its shelf life and quality.
Benefits of Using Cardboard Produce Bins
Investing in produce bins isn’t just about simply packing and transporting items. Many companies choose cardboard produce bins because they’re cost-effective, durable, reusable, and customizable.
Cost-Effective
Cardboard boxes are a cost-effective option for shipping and storing produce. They’re usually produced in bulk, making them cheaper than other types of packaging, such as wooden crates. By keeping costs down on your end, you can continue selling produce at a competitive price to customers.
Durable
Despite being lightweight and affordable, cardboard is surprisingly strong and can withstand the weight of many different types of produce. When correctly packed, cardboard can provide excellent protection against damage during transportation.
Reusable
Using cardboard produce bins is an environmentally friendly choice since you can reuse the box to store other materials after its initial use. If you don’t have a use for the box and it’s still in good condition, you can also sell the bulk supply to companies such as United Container Co.
Customizable
Customizable features such as printed logos, branding, and product information enhance your brand’s visibility. Some stores display their produce in the cardboard box it arrived in; by customizing the container, you promote your brand.
Tips for Buying Cardboard Produce Bins
You want to select the right produce boxes based on your needs; since these are for food, the boxes you need differ from those retailers need to ship apparel.
Durability and Material Quality
The quality of the cardboard directly impacts the lifespan of the bins. High-quality cardboard is less prone to tearing and warping, ensuring your produce remains safe during transport. Opting for double or triple-walled cardboard enhances the bin’s strength, making it suitable for heavier loads. Using a durable container is especially important when shipping in bulk or transporting heavier fruits such as melons and pumpkins.
Pro Tip
The boxes you buy should have reinforced corners and edges, as these features further contribute to their durability and allow the bins to withstand rough handling.
Size
Choosing the right size and shape of cardboard bins is vital for efficiency. Smaller bins are ideal for delicate fruits such as berries, while larger bins can accommodate bulkier items such as melons and pumpkins.
Likewise, having a variety of sizes on hand allows for flexibility in packing different types of produce. Accurate measurement of your produce helps select bins that minimize space, reducing the risk of damage during transit.
Pro Tip
If you’re not sure about the size and capacity you need, directly contact the manufacturer you ordered the boxes from. They can provide details on their inventory and determine which bins are best for your specific needs.
Type of Box
You’ll need to buy a food-grade box designed explicitly for storing produce. Manufacturers create produce boxes with materials safe for food contact and have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they meet industry standards. Using non-food-grade boxes can contaminate your produce, affecting its safety and quality.
Buy from United Container Co.
Order your large cardboard produce bins from United Container Company! We have countless box shapes and sizes, as well as options for new or used containers. With over 30 years of experience, our team can help you find the right solution for your produce packaging needs.
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