Tapered-wall Pallet Boxes

Nestable plastic pallet boxes with tapered walls

Tapered-wall plastic pallet boxes are designed for handling, storing and transporting food, agricultural and industrial products while reducing the space required when the containers are empty. Their tapered shape allows several empty pallet boxes to nest inside one another, simplifying storage and reducing the floor space, transportation volume and costs associated with empty returns.

These pallet boxes are suitable for food-processing facilities, businesses in the agricultural sector, warehouses, distribution centres and industrial facilities that use reusable bulk containers.

The TS4800 and TS4900 models are rotationally moulded in one piece from UV-treated polyethylene. Their seamless main construction provides a durable solution for indoor and outdoor use. Moulded side ribs reinforce the walls while making it easier to separate the empty nested pallet boxes.

The models shown are CFIA-approved and comply with FDA requirements for food use. They can be cleaned with a pressure washer, and their nine-leg base allows handling with a forklift. Pallet-jack compatibility varies by model.

Comparison of the TS4800 and TS4900 models

Dimensions and load capacities must be validated according to the product being handled and the actual operating conditions.

Both formats nest when empty and can be stacked up to three high when used with their lids. Lids are sold separately.

The TS4800 offers a lower profile and a 42 in. × 48 in. footprint. It provides four-way forklift access and two-way pallet-jack access.

The TS4900 offers greater volume and a higher load capacity. It provides four-way forklift access but is not designed for use with a pallet jack because the space between its legs is too narrow.

The stated load capacities are based on evenly distributed loads and may vary according to the product, temperature, handling method, stacking configuration and actual operating conditions.

Why choose a nestable pallet box?

Reduce the space required for empty pallet boxes

The tapered walls allow empty pallet boxes to fit inside one another. This design reduces the space required in the warehouse, production area or return truck.

The actual space savings depend on the number of pallet boxes, their nesting depth and the organization of the operation. A safe method for separating the boxes before filling must also be planned.

Simplify empty returns

In a reusable distribution system where pallet boxes are delivered full and returned empty, the volume occupied during the return trip can represent a significant cost. Nestable pallet boxes allow more empty containers to be transported in the same space.

They are particularly suitable for reusable circuits between suppliers, food-processing plants, warehouses and distribution centres.

Make cleaning easier

The one-piece construction and solid interior surfaces facilitate cleaning. These models can be cleaned with a pressure washer according to the facility’s sanitation procedures.

Water pressure, water temperature, cleaning products and nozzle distance must be suitable for polyethylene. Regular inspections are still required to identify cracks, deformation or damaged areas that could affect food-handling applications.

Indoor or outdoor use

The polyethylene is UV-treated for indoor or outdoor use. The product specifications indicate an operating temperature range of -28 °C to 49 °C.

This temperature range does not automatically guarantee compatibility with every product or process. Product temperature, exposure time, impacts, load and handling methods must also be considered.

Nesting and stacking: what is the difference?

Nesting and stacking serve two different purposes.

When the pallet boxes are empty, their tapered walls allow them to nest inside one another to reduce the space they occupy. They are not carrying a load in this configuration.

When filled, the pallet boxes can be stacked up to three high with their lids. The lid supports the pallet box above it and helps protect the contents. It must be ordered separately.

The safe stacking height depends on the model, the weight of the contents, load distribution, temperature, floor stability and storage duration. The three-high limit must therefore not be considered independently of the other operating conditions.

How to choose the right model

Product volume and weight

The TS4800 has a capacity of 680 litres and a stated load capacity of 1,200 lb. The TS4900 has a capacity of 1,076 litres and a stated load capacity of 2,000 lb.

Capacity in litres represents the available internal volume, but it does not determine the actual weight of the contents. A dense product may reach the pallet box’s load limit before the box is completely full.

The product weight must be calculated and compared with the capacity of the selected model, considering the handling method and planned stacking configuration.

Available height and space

The TS4800 is 30 inches high, while the TS4900 is 46 inches high. This difference can affect compatibility with doorways, conveyors, workstations, trailers and storage areas.

A deeper pallet box may provide more volume, but it can also make it more difficult for employees to reach the bottom. The loading and unloading method must therefore be considered.

Material-handling equipment

Both models provide four-way forklift access.

The TS4800 also provides two-way pallet-jack access. The TS4900 is not designed for pallet-jack handling. If a pallet jack is the primary method used to move containers within the facility, this difference must be confirmed before selecting a model.

Type of product being contained

The TS4800 and TS4900 are not designed to hold liquids. Pressure from a liquid can cause the walls to bulge and deform the pallet box.

For storing or transporting liquids, sauces, water or wet products requiring complete containment, choose a solid-wall and solid-bottom pallet box specifically designed for that application.

The compatibility of the polyethylene with ingredients, chemicals, cleaning agents and operating conditions must always be confirmed.

Lids and accessories

A compatible lid is available separately for each format. It helps protect the contents from dust and surrounding contaminants. It is also required to stack the pallet boxes according to the manufacturer’s intended configuration.

Compatibility must be confirmed using the exact pallet-box model. Similar overall dimensions do not necessarily mean that a lid or another accessory will fit.

To compare these models with other available constructions, view our complete selection of plastic pallet boxes and bulk containers.

Frequently asked questions

Why do these pallet boxes have tapered walls?

The tapered walls allow empty pallet boxes to fit inside one another. This feature reduces the space required for storage and return transportation.

Can the pallet boxes be stacked when filled?

Yes. The TS4800 and TS4900 can be stacked up to three high with their lids. The weight, load distribution, temperature and operating conditions must still be validated before stacking.

Is the lid included?

No. The lid is sold separately. It is required for the intended stacking configuration and helps protect the contents.

Can these pallet boxes hold liquids?

No. The TS4800 and TS4900 are not designed to hold liquids. Liquid pressure can cause their walls to bulge. A pallet box specifically designed for liquid containment must be selected for this type of application.

Are both models compatible with a pallet jack?

No. The TS4800 provides two-way pallet-jack access. The TS4900 is not designed for pallet-jack handling because the space between its legs is too narrow.

Can these pallet boxes be used outdoors?

Yes. Their polyethylene is UV-treated and suitable for indoor or outdoor use. The load, temperature, exposure time and environmental conditions must still be considered.

Which model should I choose?

The TS4800 is suitable for applications requiring a lower profile, a capacity of 680 litres or pallet-jack handling. The TS4900 is intended for applications requiring greater volume and a higher load capacity when handling is performed with a forklift.