Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about gaylord boxes, our services, and how to work with us. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact our team for personalized assistance.
Popular Questions
GeneralWhat is a gaylord box?
What is a gaylord box?
A gaylord box is a large, heavy-duty corrugated container typically measuring 48"x40"x48" designed to sit on a pallet. They're used for bulk storage and shipping in industrial applications. The name comes from the Gaylord Container Company that popularized them.
OrderingWhat is your minimum order quantity?
What is your minimum order quantity?
We don't have a strict minimum, but we recommend ordering at least 25 boxes for the best value. Smaller quantities are available but may have higher per-unit pricing. For single boxes, please call for availability.
OrderingDo you offer volume discounts?
Do you offer volume discounts?
Yes! We offer tiered pricing: 5% off for 50+ boxes, 10% off for 100+, 15% off for 250+, and custom pricing for 500+ boxes. Volume customers also get priority service and dedicated account support.
Delivery & Service AreasWhat areas do you serve?
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of Oregon and Southwest Washington. Portland metro gets same-day service, Salem/Eugene next-day, and other areas within 2-5 business days.
General
What is a gaylord box?
A gaylord box is a large, heavy-duty corrugated container typically measuring 48"x40"x48" designed to sit on a pallet. They're used for bulk storage and shipping in industrial applications. The name comes from the Gaylord Container Company that popularized them.
Are used boxes as good as new ones?
Yes! Our Grade A and B boxes offer the same structural integrity as new boxes at 50-70% less cost. We inspect every box and only sell containers that meet our quality standards. Used boxes are also environmentally friendlier.
How many times can a gaylord box be reused?
A well-maintained gaylord box can typically be reused 3-10 times depending on the application and handling. Our Grade A boxes often have 90%+ of their original lifespan remaining.
What sizes of gaylord boxes do you offer?
We stock standard 48"x40"x48" boxes as well as 48"x40"x36", 48"x45"x36", and other specialty sizes. Custom sizes can be ordered for large quantities. Contact us with your specific dimensional requirements.
What's the difference between single-wall, double-wall, and triple-wall boxes?
Single-wall boxes have one layer of corrugated material, suitable for lighter loads up to 500 lbs. Double-wall boxes are stronger with two layers, supporting 500-1,500 lbs. Triple-wall boxes are the strongest, supporting up to 3,000 lbs and heavy-duty applications.
Can gaylord boxes be stacked?
Yes! Most gaylord boxes can be stacked 2-3 high when properly loaded and in good condition. Triple-wall boxes offer the best stacking strength. Always ensure the load is stable and within weight limits before stacking.
Ordering
What is your minimum order quantity?
We don't have a strict minimum, but we recommend ordering at least 25 boxes for the best value. Smaller quantities are available but may have higher per-unit pricing. For single boxes, please call for availability.
Do you offer volume discounts?
Yes! We offer tiered pricing: 5% off for 50+ boxes, 10% off for 100+, 15% off for 250+, and custom pricing for 500+ boxes. Volume customers also get priority service and dedicated account support.
How do I place an order?
You can request a quote through our website or email [email protected]. We'll confirm availability, pricing, and delivery options within 24 hours.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, company checks, and wire transfers. For qualified businesses, we offer net-30 payment terms. Contact us to apply for credit terms.
How long does it take to process an order?
Most in-stock orders are processed within 24-48 hours. Custom orders or special sizes may take 5-10 business days depending on availability. Rush processing is available for an additional fee.
Can I modify or cancel my order after placing it?
Orders can be modified or cancelled within 24 hours of placement at no charge. After processing begins, cancellation fees may apply. Contact us immediately if you need to make changes.
Delivery & Service Areas
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of Oregon and Southwest Washington. Portland metro gets same-day service, Salem/Eugene next-day, and other areas within 2-5 business days.
Do you offer pickup?
Yes! You're welcome to pick up orders at our Portland facility during business hours (Mon-Fri 7AM-5PM, Sat 8AM-2PM). Call ahead to ensure your order is ready.
How much does delivery cost?
Delivery starts at $75 for standard service. Same-day delivery starts at $175. Free delivery is available for orders over 250 boxes within the Portland metro area.
Do you deliver to residential addresses?
Yes, but residential delivery requires special handling. A liftgate truck and additional delivery time may be needed. Residential delivery starts at $150. We recommend having a forklift or pallet jack available.
What are your delivery hours?
Standard deliveries are Monday-Friday, 8AM-4PM. We offer extended hours and weekend delivery for an additional fee. Same-day deliveries must be ordered by 10AM for Portland metro.
Will I need special equipment for delivery?
Yes, you'll need a forklift or pallet jack to unload. Our trucks have liftgates for ground-level delivery, but you'll need equipment to move the pallets. We can arrange unloading services for an additional fee.
Selling & Recycling
Do you buy used boxes?
Yes! We pay competitive prices for quality used gaylord boxes. Pricing depends on condition, quantity, and location. Contact us with details about your boxes for a quote.
What condition do boxes need to be in to sell?
We buy boxes in all conditions. Premium prices are paid for Grade A boxes, but we also buy damaged boxes for recycling. We won't purchase boxes contaminated with hazardous materials.
Do you provide recycling services?
Yes, we offer free pickup for recyclable boxes (minimum quantities apply). We process all materials responsibly and provide certificates of recycling upon request.
How much do you pay for used boxes?
Prices vary based on size, condition, and quantity. Grade A boxes typically fetch $5-15 each, Grade B boxes $2-8 each. Damaged boxes suitable only for recycling receive scrap cardboard pricing. Contact us for current rates.
Do you pick up boxes from my location?
Yes! For orders of 50+ boxes, we offer free pickup within the Portland metro area. Smaller quantities or distant locations may have a pickup fee. We can typically schedule pickup within 2-3 business days.
Can I exchange my old boxes for new ones?
Absolutely! We offer trade-in programs where you can exchange your used boxes for credit toward new or refurbished boxes. This is a great way to maintain your packaging supply while reducing costs.
Quality & Safety
Are your boxes food-safe?
Our Grade A boxes are suitable for food contact applications. They're clean, uncontaminated, and meet food industry standards. We can provide documentation upon request.
How do you inspect boxes?
Every box is visually inspected for structural integrity, cleanliness, and damage. We check all panels, corners, and bottoms. Boxes are graded A, B, or C based on our standardized criteria.
What if I receive damaged boxes?
We stand behind our quality. If you receive boxes that don't meet the grade ordered, contact us within 48 hours. We'll arrange replacement or refund at no extra cost.
What's your grading system?
Grade A: Like-new condition, 90%+ lifespan, suitable for food. Grade B: Good condition with minor cosmetic wear, 70%+ lifespan. Grade C: Functional but visible wear, best for one-time use or non-critical applications.
Do you offer certified testing or documentation?
Yes! We can provide burst test results, edge crush test (ECT) ratings, and certificates of compliance for food-grade applications. Some documentation may have additional fees for third-party testing.
Are your boxes safe for storing temperature-sensitive products?
Standard corrugated boxes provide basic insulation but aren't designed for temperature control. For temperature-sensitive items, we recommend our insulated gaylord boxes or consulting with our team about specialized solutions.
Custom Orders
Can I order custom-sized gaylord boxes?
Yes! We can source custom sizes for orders of 100+ boxes. Lead time is typically 3-4 weeks. Provide your dimensions, weight requirements, and quantity for a quote.
Do you offer custom printing or branding?
Absolutely! We offer custom printing for logos, handling instructions, and branding. Minimum order of 250 boxes required. Setup fees apply for new print designs.
Can boxes be made with specific ECT ratings?
Yes! We can source boxes with specific Edge Crush Test ratings based on your load requirements. Common ratings include 32 ECT, 44 ECT, and 55 ECT. Higher ratings available for heavy loads.
Do you offer custom liners or accessories?
Yes! We stock polyethylene liners, gaylord box lids, and corner protectors. Custom liners can be sourced for moisture barriers, anti-static, or food-grade applications.
What's the lead time for custom orders?
Standard custom orders take 3-4 weeks. Rush orders may be available for 1-2 week delivery with expedite fees. Complex specifications may require additional time.
Can you help design a box for my specific application?
Definitely! Our team can help specify the right box type, size, and grade for your application. We consider your product weight, stacking requirements, shipping distance, and budget to recommend the best solution.
Returns & Exchanges
What is your return policy?
Unused boxes in original condition can be returned within 30 days for a refund minus restocking fee (15%). Custom orders and special sizes are non-returnable unless defective.
How do I initiate a return?
Contact us at [email protected] with your order number and reason for return. We'll provide a return authorization number and instructions. Returns must be received within 30 days of purchase.
Who pays for return shipping?
Customer is responsible for return shipping costs unless the return is due to our error or defective products. We recommend using a trackable shipping method for returns.
Can I exchange boxes for a different size or grade?
Yes! Exchanges are accepted within 30 days if boxes are unused. You'll pay the difference if upgrading or receive credit if downgrading, minus a 10% exchange fee.
What if the boxes don't meet the grade I ordered?
If boxes don't meet the specified grade, contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We'll arrange pickup and replacement at no charge. Take photos of any issues for faster processing.
Are there any restocking fees?
Standard returns have a 15% restocking fee. No restocking fee applies if the return is due to our error, damaged goods, or quality issues. Exchange orders have a 10% processing fee.
Account & Billing
How do I set up a business account?
Contact us to set up a business account. We'll need your business name, tax ID, billing address, and payment preferences. Approved accounts get net-30 terms, volume discounts, and dedicated support.
Do you offer net payment terms?
Yes! Qualified businesses can apply for net-30, net-45, or net-60 terms. We require a credit application and business references. Terms are subject to credit approval and may have minimum order requirements.
How do I access my order history?
Business account holders can log in to our customer portal to view order history, invoices, and delivery tracking. Contact us to set up your portal access.
Can I get itemized invoices for tax purposes?
Yes! All invoices include itemized line items, tax breakdowns, and delivery charges. W-9 forms are available upon request. Historical invoices can be accessed through your account portal.
What are your tax and resale certificate policies?
We collect sales tax based on delivery location. Valid resale certificates are accepted and must be provided before order processing. Certificates must be current and match your business information.
How do I update my billing information?
Log in to your account portal or contact our billing department at [email protected]. Updates to payment methods, billing addresses, or contact information typically process within 24 hours.
Sustainability
How does buying used boxes help the environment?
Reusing gaylord boxes prevents waste from reaching landfills, reduces demand for virgin materials, and lowers carbon emissions from manufacturing. Each reused box saves approximately 400 lbs of CO2 compared to manufacturing new.
Are gaylord boxes recyclable?
Yes! Corrugated cardboard is 100% recyclable. When boxes reach end-of-life, we ensure they're properly recycled. We can provide certificates of recycling for corporate sustainability reporting.
What happens to boxes that can't be resold?
Boxes that don't meet resale standards are sent to recycling facilities where they're processed into new paper products. No boxes go to landfills. We track and report all recycling for transparency.
Do you have any sustainability certifications?
We're committed to sustainable practices and work with FSC-certified suppliers when sourcing new boxes. We're currently pursuing B-Corp certification and provide annual sustainability reports to our customers.
How much waste do you divert from landfills?
In 2024, we diverted over 2 million lbs of corrugated material from landfills through our reuse and recycling programs. That's equivalent to saving over 17,000 trees and 5 million gallons of water.
Can you help my company meet sustainability goals?
Absolutely! We provide documentation for ESG reporting, carbon footprint reduction calculations, and waste diversion metrics. Switching to reused boxes is an easy way to improve your sustainability metrics immediately.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help! Choose the best way to reach us and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Expert Support Every Step of the Way
Our knowledgeable team has decades of experience in the packaging industry. We're here to help you find the perfect gaylord box solution for your specific needs, whether you're ordering for the first time or you're a seasoned professional.
- Free consultation and quotes
- Custom solutions for unique requirements
- Fast response times and dedicated support
- Ongoing assistance with inventory management




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