Choosing the Right Large Plastic Storage Boxes for Industrial Use
Large plastic storage boxes are heavy-duty plastic containers, usually built on a pallet footprint, used to store and move goods in warehouses, factories and distribution centres. The right box protects your stock, stacks safely and folds away when empty. The wrong one wastes space, money and time.
This guide explains what to look for when choosing large plastic storage boxes for industrial use, from size and load capacity to gates, lids and temperature range.
What Are Large Plastic Storage Boxes?
In industrial settings, large plastic storage boxes are pallet-sized containers made from tough plastics such as HDPE (high-density polyethylene). They are also called plastic pallet boxes, bulk containers or magnum containers.
Unlike small totes or crates, they hold a full pallet load, can be lifted by forklift or pallet truck, and stack on top of each other. Many fold flat when empty, which cuts the space needed for storage and return transport. Our guide to collapsible plastic storage boxes explains how folding designs work.
6 Things to Check Before You Buy
1. Size and Footprint
Start with the pallets, racking and vehicles you already use. In the UK, the standard pallet footprint is 1200 x 1000mm, and most large plastic storage boxes are built to match. Our Magnum Container measures 1200 x 1000 x 975mm and holds 814 litres.
2. Load Capacity
Choose a box rated above your heaviest load. A new Magnum Container carries up to 800kg, while our refurbished Magnum Container is rated to 500kg. When boxes are stacked, the bottom box carries the weight of every box above it, so check stacking limits too.
3. Material and Temperature Range
HDPE is tough, moisture resistant and easy to clean, which makes it a good fit for food, retail and manufacturing. Check the temperature range if your goods are chilled or frozen. Our new Magnum Container is rated from -20°C to 40°C. For fully temperature-controlled delivery, an insulated thermotainer may suit better.
4. Collapsibility
If boxes travel back empty or sit idle after peak periods, a collapsible design pays for itself in saved space. Read more about the benefits of collapsible storage containers.
5. Access: Gates and Lids
Drop-down gates let staff pick from a full box without lifting goods over the top. The Magnum Container has two half drop-down gates. A detachable Magnum lid keeps products clean and secure in transit.
6. New or Refurbished
New boxes give you the full rated performance and consistent specifications. Refurbished boxes are inspected and restored to a clean, safe working condition at a lower price, and they keep good plastic in use for longer.
Large Plastic Storage Boxes We Supply
| Product | Condition | Size (W x D x H) | Load capacity | Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnum Container | New | 1200 x 1000 x 975mm | 800kg | Two half drop-down gates |
| Magnum Container (Refurbished) | Refurbished | 1200 x 1000 x 975mm | 500kg | Drop-down gate |
Both fit the Magnum lid. Browse the full range of new Magnum containers.
Plastic Storage Boxes vs Pallet Cages
Plastic boxes and wire pallet cages do similar jobs, but they suit different goods.
| Large plastic storage box | Wire pallet cage | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small, loose or food items that need full enclosure | Bulky, heavy or awkward items |
| Sides | Solid plastic, easy to clean | Open wire mesh, good visibility |
| Hygiene | Easy to wash down | Harder to keep clean |
| Weight | Lighter to handle | Heavier steel |
If you need visibility and higher load ratings, read our guide to wire pallet cages. To compare plastic with steel and wood, see Magnum containers: plastic vs steel vs wood.
Where Are Large Plastic Storage Boxes Used?
Food and drink. Washable plastic keeps produce and packaged food clean through the supply chain.
Retail distribution. Boxes move mixed stock from distribution centres to stores, then fold flat for the return trip.
Manufacturing and automotive. Components and parts stay protected between suppliers and production lines.
Seasonal storage. Collapsible boxes fold away after peak periods and free up floor space.
For smaller loads, bread trays and a double tote box dolly handle crates of 600 x 400mm.
FAQ
What are large plastic storage boxes used for?
They store and transport pallet-sized loads in warehouses, factories, food supply chains and retail distribution, keeping goods protected, stacked and easy to move by forklift.
What size are large plastic storage boxes?
Most industrial boxes in the UK are built on a 1200 x 1000mm pallet footprint. Our Magnum Container is 1200 x 1000 x 975mm with an 814-litre capacity.
How much weight can a large plastic storage box hold?
It depends on the design. Our new Magnum Container carries up to 800kg and the refurbished version up to 500kg.
Are large plastic storage boxes collapsible?
Many are. Magnum containers fold flat when empty, saving space in storage and on return journeys.
Can plastic storage boxes be used for chilled goods?
Yes, within their rated temperature range. Our new Magnum Container is rated from -20°C to 40°C.
Do you sell refurbished plastic storage boxes?
Yes. We supply refurbished Magnum containers that have been inspected and restored to a clean, safe working condition.
Choose the Right Box for Your Operation
The right large plastic storage boxes match your pallets, carry your heaviest loads and fold away when you do not need them. Distribution Maintenance supplies new and refurbished Magnum containers, lids and handling equipment from our depots in Harlow and Grantham.
