Corrugated trays are a versatile and eco-friendly solution for safely transporting, displaying, and organizing products. Their sturdy design makes them ideal for both home and business use, ensuring goods stay protected and presentable. Whether you’re shipping fragile items, arranging groceries, or streamlining storage, this shopping guide will help you choose the best corrugated trays to meet your needs efficiently and sustainably.
Types and Uses of Corrugated Trays: At-a-Glance Comparison
| Type | Common Dimensions | Color Options | Typical Use Cases | Board Strength | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General-Purpose Trays | 15″ x 12″ x 2″/4″ | Kraft, White | Light shipping, plants, bottles, jars | 200# Test (ECT-32) | Easy to fold, flat ship/storage |
| Extra-Large Trays | 24″ x 12″ x 2″/4″/15″ x 24″ | Kraft, White | Beer/cans, nursery, food service | 200# Test (ECT-32) | Large surface area, sturdy walls |
| Beer/Beverage Trays | 15.6″ x 10.4″ x 2.75″ | Kraft | Transporting 24 cans/bottles | 200# Test (ECT-32) | Designed for beverage industry |
| Plastic Corrugated Trays | 18″ x 12″ x 4.5″ | Blue | Office, supply, organization | Corrugated plastic | Waterproof, reusable, recyclable |
| Custom-Size/Heavy Duty Trays | Varies (custom orders) | Kraft/White | Heavy/bulky loads, export, palletizing | Double/Triple wall | Sleeve-compatible, reinforced |
| Corrugated Tray w/ Lid/Cap | Varies | Kraft/White | Stability for stacked items, capping | 200# Test or higher | Used on pallets, with sleeves/caps |
Everyday Usage of Corrugated Trays
Corrugated trays are among the most versatile packaging and materials handling solutions available for both personal and commercial applications. Here are the most common ways people use them:
- Transporting Light Loads: Their open-top, solid-side design is ideal for moving several small items—such as cans, bottles, jars, potted plants, hardware, or office supplies—at once.
- Product Display and Storage: Many retailers use corrugated trays to present merchandise on shelves or in point-of-sale displays. Their stackability and professional look make them suitable for food, bakery, or produce sections.
- Shipping and Distribution: Trays can act as the base layer within larger boxes, as protective caps, or simply for efficient consolidation of products on a pallet.
- Organizing Workspaces: In offices, warehouses, and classrooms, corrugated and plastic trays help categorize files, papers, or tools for quick retrieval and neat storage.
- Industry-Specific Uses: Nurseries use trays to transport flats of plants; beverage companies choose beer trays optimized to hold a case of cans or bottles; food producers may use trays for baked goods or bulk ingredients.
Benefits of Corrugated Trays
Corrugated trays offer numerous advantages over other shipping and organizing options:
1. Lightweight Yet Strong
- Made from engineered, fluted fiberboard (“corrugated” cardboard), trays provide ample strength without adding much to shipping weight.
- Most standard trays use 200# Test or ECT-32 board, with higher grades available for heavy or fragile loads.
2. Cost-Efficient
- Generally more cost-effective than full boxes when only a base or shallow containment is needed.
- Reduces material usage and, often, shipping costs.
3. Easy to Assemble and Store
- Trays ship flat, minimizing storage space.
- Quick, tool-free folding design speeds up packing and order fulfillment processes.
4. Flexible Use
- Can serve multiple roles: tray, cap, protective layer, divider, or shelf organizer.
- Works in combination with corrugated sleeves or additional lids for customizable packaging.
5. Recyclable and Eco-Friendly
- Most trays are made from recycled/recyclable materials.
- Corrugated plastic trays can be reused many times before recycling.
6. Customizable
- Many providers offer custom sizing, printing (logos, instructions), handles, or dividers to suit specific needs.
How to Choose the Right Corrugated Tray
Selecting the ideal tray depends on your application. Follow these steps and considerations:
1. Determine the Intended Use
- Are you shipping, storing, displaying, or organizing? Each application can affect your tray requirements.
- For heavy or fragile items, opt for higher board grades or reinforced designs.
2. Size and Capacity
- Choose dimensions (length, width, height/depth) according to the products you’ll transport or hold.
- Ensure enough depth for product containment without wasting space.
3. Board Grade and Strength
- Standard: 200# Test (ECT-32) single-wall cardboard handles up to 65 lbs—suitable for most light/medium-duty tasks.
- Heavy: Double-wall or triple-wall options exist for heavy, uneven, or bulky loads.
4. Specialty Features
- Color: Kraft (brown) is more common/cost-effective; white is ideal for display or branding.
- Handles: Choose trays with hand-holes for easier lifting and transport.
- Dividers/Inserts: Useful for glass bottles, cans, or fragile items.
- Moisture Resistance: Some trays are available with coatings for food or plant transport.
- Reusability: Plastic corrugated trays suit repeated office or classroom use.
5. Quantity and Bundling
- Trays are often sold in bundle quantities (50, 100, 250+). Larger quantities mean lower per-unit pricing.
6. Customization Needs
- Sometimes, a standard tray won’t fit the task. Consider custom ordering for precise fit, branding, or function.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
Here’s how to get the most out of your corrugated trays:
Selecting the Right Tray
- Match Size Carefully: Measure your products to prevent them from shifting or protruding. Slightly oversized trays can waste space or diminish stability.
- Mind the Weight: Don’t exceed the manufacturer’s stated weight capacity (varies by board grade and size). Overloading can cause corners to bow or fail.
- Think About Handling: If items need to be carried long distances, opt for trays with hand-holes/cut-out handles.
- Stacking Considerations: For palletizing, pair trays with sleeves or caps for extra item stability.
Assembling Your Tray
- Fold along pre-scored lines for best fit and strength.
- Assemble with shorter sides inside the longer sides for maximum rigidity.
- For extra security (especially with heavy loads), reinforce corners with tape, glue, or staples.
Storage & Shipping
- Store your trays flat in a dry environment.
- For bulk shipments, shrink- or stretch-wrap palletized trays to prevent shifting.
- Use tray/cap combinations and cardboard sleeves for high-value, fragile, or heavy items.
Reuse & Disposal
- Corrugated trays are recyclable in most curbside programs—confirm with your local facility regarding coatings or adhesives.
- Corrugated plastic trays can be cleaned and reused multiple times before recycling.
In-Depth Technical Comparison Table
| Model / Size | Board Type | Color | Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) | Capacity (Cu. Ft.) | Weight Limit | Features/Notes | Price (Per Tray) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15″x12″x1.75″ Kraft | 200#/ECT 32, Kraft | Kraft | 15″ x 12″ x 1.75″ | 0.18 | ~65 lbs (bundle) | Easy fold, flat storage | ~$1.15 – $1.85 |
| 24″x12″x1.75″ Kraft | 200#/ECT 32, Kraft | Kraft | 24″ x 12″ x 1.75″ | 0.29 | ~65 lbs (bundle) | Larger footprint | ~$1.80 – $2.50 |
| 15″x12″x1.75″ White | 200#/ECT 32, White | White | 15″ x 12″ x 1.75″ | 0.18 | ~65 lbs (bundle) | Clean display, branding | ~$1.25 – $2.10 |
| 24″x12″x1.75″ White | 200#/ECT 32, White | White | 24″ x 12″ x 1.75″ | 0.29 | ~65 lbs (bundle) | Discrete, professional appearance | ~$2.20 – $2.80 |
| 15″x12″x2″ Kraft | 200#/ECT 32, Kraft | Kraft | 15″ x 12″ x 2″ | Similar to above | ~65 lbs (bundle) | Standard multipurpose model | $0.73 – $0.90 |
| 24″x12″x2″ Kraft | 200#/ECT 32, Kraft | Kraft | 24″ x 12″ x 2″ | Up to 0.33 | ~65 lbs (bundle) | Good for bottles, jars | $1.02 – $1.12 |
| Beer Tray | 200#/ECT 32, Kraft | Kraft | 15.6″ x 10.4″ x 2.75″ | Holds 24 cans | ~60 lbs (bundle) | Optimized for beverage cases | $0.76 – $0.89 |
| Corrugated Plastic | Corrugated Plastic | Blue | 18″ x 12″ x 4.5″ | Letter size paper | Moderate (non-box) | Water-resistant, reusable | $18 – $22 |
| Custom Tray | Double/Triple Wall | Kraft/White | Custom | Custom | Up to 250 lbs+ | For export, heavy, odd-sized loads | $2.00+ (varies) |
Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer, order size, and additional features.
Key Advice and Actionable Tips
1. For High-Volume Buyers
- Compare bundle discounts—ordering 250+ trays can significantly lower per-unit costs.
- If custom sizes or company branding is needed, request a quote from suppliers.
2. For Fragile or Heavy Items
- Pair trays with dividers, padding, or sleeves to prevent shifting and breakage.
- Consider double or triple wall trays for extra security.
3. For Food or Plant Use
- Look for moisture-resistant coatings or waterproof plastics.
- Confirm food safety certifications if using for direct food contact.
4. For Display & Office Settings
- White or colored trays enhance visual appeal for displays or desktop organization.
- Corrugated plastic is a practical, modern option for reusability and cleaning.
5. For Efficient Assembly
- Practice the folding method before large-volume packing jobs.
- Have extra packing tape or glue handy for overstuffed trays or heavier loads.
6. For Sustainability
- Reuse trays for other applications where possible before recycling.
- Ask your supplier about recycled content and eco-friendly manufacturing options.
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Conclusion
Corrugated trays provide a blend of strength, flexibility, and cost-savings unmatched by other packaging forms. Whether you’re shipping, stocking, displaying, or organizing, the right tray improves efficiency, safeguards your items, and streamlines your workflow—all while remaining affordable and increasingly sustainable.
With a broad range of sizes, board grades, specialty features, and customization options, there’s a corrugated tray for nearly every need. Follow the selection tips above, compare model features, and don’t hesitate to consult suppliers about specific requirements. With smart selection and use, corrugated trays will become an indispensable tool in your operations—no matter the setting.
FAQ
What is a corrugated tray?
A corrugated tray is a shallow, open-top box typically made from corrugated cardboard or plastic. They are used to carry, ship, display, or organize multiple items together. Their flat shipping and folding design offer both strength and efficiency.
How much weight can a standard corrugated tray hold?
Standard single-wall, 200# Test (ECT-32) trays are designed for loads up to 65 lbs per tray, though practical capacity depends on the tray size and how items are distributed.
Are trays available in different strengths or grades?
Yes. Most trays are single-wall (one layer of corrugation), suitable for light to moderate loads. For heavy-duty or export use, double-wall or triple-wall corrugated trays are available.
Can I order custom-sized or printed trays?
Absolutely. Most suppliers offer custom size, color, and printing options for branding, instructions, or to meet very specific dimensional needs.
What is the difference between a tray and a full box?
Trays have open tops and generally shorter side walls, making loading and unloading easier and saving material when a lid or full enclosure isn’t needed.
Are corrugated trays recyclable?
Yes. Paperboard trays are fully recyclable with standard cardboard recycling. Corrugated plastic trays are also recyclable (confirm with your local recycling program).
What kinds of items are they best for?
Corrugated trays are excellent for group transport of cans, bottles, jars, potted plants, bakery products, office files, hardware, or small retail goods.
Do trays come with dividers or partitions?
Many manufacturers offer optional dividers or inserts—especially for bottles, glass, or fragile products. These increase stability and prevent damage during transit.
What does “ECT-32” or “200# Test” mean?
“ECT-32” stands for Edge Crush Test rating of 32 pounds per inch—an industry standard for measuring box strength. “200# Test” refers to the bursting strength of the board. Both indicate that the tray can withstand typical shipment and stacking pressures.
Can corrugated trays be reused?
Paper trays may be reused a few times if not damaged, but corrugated plastic trays are designed for extended, repeat use, especially in office or classroom settings. Always ensure trays are clean and structurally sound before reuse.
