Consider Heavy Metal

Protecting merchandise is an important aspect of a third party logistics company and the warehouse industry. Millions of dollars in merchandise is damaged in transit and storage, so finding alternative ways to protect the goods is important to your organization. A popular alternative to wooden pallets and shrink wrap or cardboard boxes is by the use of wire metal containers.

Pros: Wire metal containers are reinforced, reusable and long lasting; up to ten years, thus making them a green alternative to other products. Like wood pallets, they are stackable and returnable to the company from which you rent them or you can store them for future use. They are light and strong, tend not to rust, are adaptable to many products, easy to clean, and can be wheel mounted on castors. Since they are made of wire mesh, dirt does not easily accumulate on them, do not sag as much as wood or plastic, and they do not absorb the smells or bacteria that other materials do. Most are made with half or full drop gates in front for easy loading and unloading.

Cons: There are many positive aspects to using metal containers, but there can be some drawbacks. They are durable and long lasting, but they can be expensive. Small objects do fall through the grates nor are they moisture resistant. Although, they are supposed to be rust resistant, over time and long exposure to moisture could cause deterioration.

There are many alternatives for shipping merchandise and methods will be determined by cost, effectiveness, and feasibility of use.