Bulk Cargo Containers vs. Gaylord Boxes: Quick Specs & Uses
Differences in capacity, reuse, and cost in plain terms
Key takeaways
- Most bulk cargo containers are lighter-duty and often single-use, with many common specs in the 65–250 lb range (some up to 500 lb) per supplier listings.
- Gaylord boxes are built for reuse and much higher capacities, ranging from about 100 lb up to roughly 3,000 lb.
- Choose bulk cargo containers for low-cost, one-way bulk cargo shipping; choose Gaylords for heavier loads, stacking strength, and return loops where reuse lowers total cost.
FAQs
What’s the difference between bulk cargo containers and Gaylord boxes?
Bulk cargo containers are usually lighter-duty and often single-use (many at 65–250 lb; some to 500 lb). Gaylord boxes are heavy-duty and reusable, roughly 100 to ~3,000 lb with laminated builds.
Can a bulk cargo container be a Gaylord?
Technically yes, but most products marketed as “bulk cargo containers” are lighter-capacity, one-way shippers.
When should I choose a bulk cargo container vs. a Gaylord?
Pick bulk cargo containers for low-cost, one-way moves of lighter loads; pick Gaylords for heavier loads, stronger stacking, and reusable return loops that cut total cost.
Do these options fit standard pallets?
Many Gaylord and bulk cargo bin formats are designed around the 48×40 in. pallet for stable handling and stacking.
Are they recyclable?
Yes. Corrugated bulk bins (including Gaylords) are recyclable and can be made with durable, practical, and recyclable materials.
From our experience, Gaylords are corrugated, heavy-duty, reusable bulk bins for real load-bearing. A bulk cargo container can technically be a Gaylord, but most boxes sold as “bulk cargo containers” are lighter capacity and intended for single use. Similarly, many bulk cargo bins with a pallet-sized footprint are described as “Gaylords,” but lack the weight capacity and bulge resistance of a true Gaylord box.
Typical bulk cargo box capacities fall in the 65–250 lb range (some up to 500 lb), whereas Gaylord boxes range from 100 lb up to about 3,000 lb in laminated builds per major manufacturers like International Paper and PCA.
Container bulk cargo vs. Gaylord boxes: quick specs
Use this quick table to compare bulk cargo containers—light, one-way shippers—with Gaylord boxes—heavy-duty, reusable bins—on capacity, construction, and best-fit use.
| Feature | Bulk cargo containers | Gaylord boxes |
|---|---|---|
| Typical capacity | 65–250 lb (some up to 500 lb) | 100–~3,000 lb (laminated) |
| Construction | Single/double wall, ECT/DW | 2-3 wall; laminated options |
| Reusability | Often single-use | Built for reuse/knockdown |
| Best fit | One-way, low-cost shipments | Heavy loads, stacking, warehouse cycles |
What is a bulk cargo container?
In practice, a bulk cargo container is a corrugated bin used to move large or irregular items. For example, Uline lists economy and premium 36×36×36 bulk cargo boxes at 65–100 lb, prioritizing easy loading and shipment consolidation over extreme capacity, with air-cargo styles around 150–250 lb and some up to 500 lb depending on design and test rating. Staples offers a 48×40×48 box at 32 ECT with lids sold separately—signaling light-duty use and one-way shipping.
What is a Gaylord box?
By our definition, a Gaylord is a heavy-duty bulk bin (rectangular or octagonal) designed for higher loads and reuse. International Paper notes laminated Gaylords can reach about 3,000 lb and provide up to 40% more compression strength than non‑laminated designs. Cascades details single, double, triple, and laminated walls (up to six) with formats engineered for pallet stability and cold/humid conditions. PCA highlights heavy‑duty bulk bins that store flat, set up easily, and stack efficiently for operations.
Conclusion
Gaylords are purpose-built for weight, stacking, and reuse. While any Gaylord is a bulk cargo container, most bulk cargo containers on the shelf are lighter-capacity, single-use boxes. Match the container to your load, handling conditions, and reuse plan.
Sources
- Uline — Bulk Cargo Containers: https://www.uline.com/BL_412/Bulk-Cargo-Containers
- Staples — 48×40×48 Bulk Cargo Boxes, 32 ECT: https://www.staples.com/Gaylord-Bottom-48-x-40-x-48-Kraft-5-Bundle-GL484048/product_23978594
- International Paper — Laminated Bulk Bins: https://www.internationalpaper.com/packaging/laminated-bulk-bins
- Cascades — Corrugated Bulk Bins: https://www.cascades.com/en/products-services/packaging/protective-packaging/bulk-bins
- PCA — Corrugated Containers: https://www.packagingcorp.com/packaging-solutions/need/contain-products/
