Insulated Plastic Pallet Boxes

Double-wall insulated pallet boxes for food products

Double-wall insulated pallet boxes are designed to handle, store and transport food, liquids and other products that must be protected from temperature fluctuations. They are particularly well suited for fish, seafood, sauces, ice and many food-processing applications.

The four CPX models are manufactured in one piece using rotational moulding. Their two polyethylene walls are filled with insulating polyurethane foam. This solid construction reduces heat transfer with the surrounding environment and helps preserve ice and maintain the temperature of the contents during handling or transport.

An insulated pallet box does not actively cool its contents and cannot replace a refrigeration system. Its performance depends on factors such as the product’s initial temperature, the amount of ice used, the ambient temperature, whether a lid is installed, the duration of transport and how often the box is opened.

The models shown are CFIA approved and comply with FDA requirements for food applications. Their solid, smooth interior surfaces facilitate cleaning. The lid is sold separately.

Comparison of the four CPX models

All four models have the same 43 in × 48 in exterior footprint. Their height, interior volume, load capacity and permitted stacking height vary by model.

The model with the largest volume is not necessarily the best choice. The actual weight of the product, available height, handling method and frequency of movement must also be considered.

Why choose an insulated pallet box?

Reduced temperature fluctuations

The polyurethane foam between the two walls slows heat transfer. It helps preserve ice and limit temperature fluctuations during temporary storage, handling and transport.

The duration of temperature retention cannot be determined from the box construction alone. It must be evaluated according to the product, load, lid, amount of ice and actual operating conditions.

Protection and containment

The solid walls and bottom retain liquids, melted ice, sauces and wet products. This construction also protects the contents from dust and surrounding contaminants more effectively than a pallet box with vented walls and bottom.

Each model includes a 2-inch drain to facilitate the removal of liquids, melted ice and wash water.

Easier cleaning

The smooth interior surfaces reduce the number of areas where residue can accumulate. The pallet boxes can be steam cleaned or pressure washed according to the facility’s sanitation procedures.

The condition of the plug or valve and all sealing components must be inspected before each food application.

Heavy-duty construction

One-piece rotational moulding eliminates assembly joints from the main structure. The runners are moulded directly into the box and allow it to be pivoted during certain handling or cleaning operations.

Pivoting must nevertheless be performed with suitable equipment and a controlled procedure. The load, centre of gravity, available space and risk of the contents shifting must be assessed before the manoeuvre.

How to choose the right model

Product volume and weight

Capacity in litres represents the available interior volume, while load capacity indicates the maximum displayed weight for the model. A pallet box filled with a dense product may reach its load limit before reaching its maximum volume.

The weight of the product, ice and any added liquid must be calculated. The weight of the pallet box itself must also be considered when selecting handling equipment.

Available height

All four models have a 43 in × 48 in exterior footprint, but their height ranges from 28 to 47 inches. Doorways, conveyors, cold rooms, clearances beneath equipment and the interior height of trailers must be checked.

Height also affects manual access to the contents. A deeper pallet box may be less practical when employees regularly need to reach the bottom.

Handling with a forklift or pallet jack

The CPX318 provides two-way access for a forklift or pallet jack. The CPX327, CPX332 and CPX335 provide four-way forklift access and two-way pallet-jack access.

This difference must be considered according to aisle width, box orientation and the method used to load trucks or supply workstations.

Stacking

The CPX318, CPX332 and CPX335 can be stacked up to four high with their lids. The CPX327 can be stacked up to three high with its lid.

These limits must not be used alone to establish a stacking configuration. The weight of the contents, load distribution, floor stability, temperature and storage duration must also be considered.

Drain and lid

A 2-inch drain is included with each model. It facilitates emptying, but its presence does not eliminate the need to verify the compatibility of all components with the contents and cleaning methods being used.

In addition to enabling the manufacturer’s intended stacking configuration, the lid helps protect the contents and reduce heat transfer caused by leaving the box open.

To compare insulated models with other available constructions, view our complete selection of plastic pallet boxes.

Frequently asked questions

Does an insulated pallet box keep food cold?

It slows the warming of the contents and helps preserve ice, but it does not actively cool food. Temperature retention depends on the product, amount of ice, lid, ambient temperature and duration of use.

Can these pallet boxes contain liquids?

Yes. Their solid walls and bottom can retain liquids. A 2-inch drain is included to facilitate emptying. The compatibility of the liquid with the polyethylene, drain and sealing components must be confirmed before use.

Is the lid included?

No. The lid is sold separately. It is required to stack the pallet boxes according to the specified limits and provides additional protection for the contents.

Can all four models be stacked to the same height?

No. The CPX318, CPX332 and CPX335 can be stacked up to four high with their lids. The CPX327 can be stacked up to three high with its lid, subject to the load and operating conditions.

Can these pallet boxes be steam cleaned or pressure washed?

Yes. The model specifications indicate that they can be steam cleaned or pressure washed. The temperature, pressure, cleaning products and nozzle distance must comply with the facility’s procedures and must not damage the polyethylene, drain or seals.

How do I choose among the four capacities?

Compare the required volume, total weight of the contents, available height, required fork access and planned stacking configuration. Agrico Plastics’ technical support service can assess your application and recommend a compatible model.