Advantages of Corrugated Over a Reusable Crate System One of the biggest drawbacks of a reusable system is that storage is required at both the user and vendor locations. Expendable, corrugated packaging takes up little room when it arrives at the supplier in a knocked down, baled condition. It remains cube-efficient until it is needed for the packing of the product. The administration of a returnable crate system requires detailed monitoring of containers to ensure timely collection and delivery. Ordering new crates and managing the necessary deposit/refund accounting can be time-consuming and require considerable financial expertise. A significant amount of flammable material stored in enclosed spaces could mean higher insurance premiums because of potential fire hazards and liability issues surrounding plastic burn-off. And, the washing of plastic crates, often with harsh chemicals, is not particularly environmentally friendly! On the subject of environmental attributes, corrugated can proudly boast that the major proportion of the fibre in a Canadian-made corrugated box comes from recycled used boxes and/or chips, shavings and sawdust from logging and wood processing operations. In summary, no other packaging medium can offer the collective advantages of the corrugated container like: Engineered for stackability – it withstands top and side pressure, is crush resistant and passes burst strength test It cushions and protects produce during shipping and can be customized to provide extra protection if needed It is highly “designable” and can be cut and folded into an infinite variety of shapes; and corrugated is impact, drop and vibration-resistant, yet light in weight. Finally, not to be overlooked, is the ability to print high-resolution, full-colour graphics on corrugated boxes allowing customers to advertise and label goods in an attractive and cost-effective format.