What comes to mind when you hear the words “wood crates”? You might think of an antiquated shipping relic, but you’d be surprised to learn that the humble wooden crate has been an unsung hero throughout history — and continues to be in our cutting-edge 62,000 square foot facility here at Express Packing.
Roots in the Woodland: A Historical Overview
Wooden crates have been our go-to for storage and shipping since the Middle Ages. Even as far back as the Paleolithic Era, humankind recognized wood as a versatile material — one that could be used to craft anything from hunting tools to the early wheels of commerce. By the time the 10th century rolled around in Europe, wood was everywhere: barrels, buckets, carts, mills, you name it!
Crates vs. Mother Nature
One reason wood became such a shipping mainstay was its natural resilience. Picture this: salty air, torrential rains, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Now imagine your goods surviving all that — thanks to wood’s durability and weather-resistant properties. It’s no wonder that, in the battle between wood and steel, wood often comes out as the clear winner.
What Makes a Crate?
Before we delve any deeper, let’s clarify what a crate is. In essence, a crate is a fully enclosing container often made from wood. It’s designed to protect what’s inside, whether you’re storing grandmother’s antiques or complex machinery. There are subtle differences between wooden boxes and crates, but the general idea is the same: protection and storage.
A Walk Through the Ages
Paleolithic Pioneers
Long before we had complex shipping routes, our ancient ancestors were already masters of material selection. Different wood types were picked based on qualities like durability, availability, and ease of crafting. Even back then, the art of choosing the right wood was in full swing.
Medieval Innovators
Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and you’ll see wood being used to craft not just boxes for storage but also for intricate machinery, carts, and even artistic pieces. And don’t forget the role of wood in shipping! Wooden ships and carts were the logistics backbone of their era.
The Advantages of Wooden Crates Today
Durability
Why has wood remained a top pick for shipping? One word: durability. High-quality wooden crates can withstand the test of time, saving your business from regular replacement costs.
Environmentally Friendly
In an age when sustainability is more crucial than ever, wooden crates tick the eco-friendly box too. They are biodegradable, and thus reduce your company’s carbon footprint.
Storage Made Easy
Thanks to their robust nature, wooden crates can be effortlessly stacked on top of one another. It makes warehouse storage a breeze. Heck, it even adds to your aesthetic if you’re into the rustic look!
Express Packing: The Modern-Day Wooden Crate Heroes
Our 62,000 square foot facility at Express Packing is a playground for all things wooden crates. We embrace this age-old shipping solution, making it fit for the modern world. Our wooden crates are customizable, durable, and environmentally responsible — a testament to their enduring importance.
So, if you’ve been wondering why we’re still clinging to this “wooden age” practice, now you know. It’s reliable, sustainable, and just as relevant as it was centuries ago.
Looking to make your shipping endeavors as timeless as the wooden crate? Contact us at Express Packing and let’s craft the perfect solution for you – whether it’s a single crate for an oversized fragile item or thousands of boxes to ship automotive parts. We’ve got you covered.