Gaylord Box Definition: What Is a Gaylord in Shipping and Why Are They Called Gaylord Boxes?

The name "Gaylord box" originates from the Gaylord Container Corporation, a company founded in St. Louis, Missouri, in the early 20th century. The company, originally named J.C. Bulis, was purchased by Robert Gaylord in 1920 and later renamed after him. Gaylord Container Corporation became a major manufacturer of corrugated containers, and its signature large, pallet-sized boxes became so popular that "Gaylord" became a generic term for this type of bulk shipping container (Encyclopedia.com – Gaylord Container Corporation History;Solus Group – Gaylord Boxes History;Laminations Online – Understanding Gaylord Boxes).

In shipping, a Gaylord is a term used to define a large, pallet-sized box used for transporting and storing bulk materials. These boxes are designed to fit standard 48" x 40" pallets, making them easy to move with forklifts and pallet jacks. The Gaylord box meaning in shipping is synonymous with efficiency, durability, and versatility for bulk handling. They are commonly used for consolidating smaller boxes, shipping loose goods, and protecting high-value shipments (DS Smith – Bulk Bins;GBE Packaging – Gaylord Cargo Bins;Cascades – Corrugated Bulk Bins).

In warehouse and logistics operations, a Gaylord box is defined as a reusable or single-use, large-capacity corrugated container used for consolidating, storing, and shipping bulk goods. These boxes are often used for collecting recyclables, shipping produce, storing parts, or consolidating smaller packages for freight. Their robust construction and compatibility with pallet systems make them a staple for efficient material handling and storage (WestRock – ComboPac® Gaylord Boxes;Cascades – Corrugated Bulk Bins;GBE Packaging – Gaylord Cargo Bins).

A Gaylord pallet refers to a standard wooden or plastic pallet that supports a Gaylord box. The combination of a Gaylord box and a pallet allows for easy handling, stacking, and transportation of bulk materials within warehouses and during shipping. This pairing is essential for maximizing load stability and optimizing logistics in both food and industrial supply chains (International Paper – Bulk Food Packaging;Cascades – Corrugated Bulk Bins;GBE Packaging – Gaylord Cargo Bins).

Gaylord boxes are used for a wide range of applications, including:

• Shipping and storing bulk produce (e.g., watermelons, pumpkins, apples)

• Collecting recyclables or scrap materials

• Consolidating smaller boxes for freight shipments

• Storing parts, components, or raw materials in manufacturing

• New and recycled plastic resin

• Handling loose or bagged goods in warehouses
  (NC State Extension, 2025,Laminations Online, 2025)

The evolution and innovation of Gaylord boxes are well-documented in U.S. patent history. Key patents include:

• US4361267A – Four-corner design for octagonal container (1982): Describes an octagonal paperboard container with a unique bottom closure, improving strength and assembly.
• US4702408A – Bulk bin (1987): Details a bulk bin formed from a unitary sheet of corrugated paperboard, with reinforced locking panels and a strong, stable octagonal structure.
• US5178275A – Eight-sided columnar container (1993): Covers a collapsible, stackable octagonal container for bulk materials, designed for easy palletization and efficient transport.
• US5573175A – Octagonal container with lock bottom (1996): Introduces a lock-bottom design for octagonal bulk shipping containers, enhancing load security and ease of use.

These patents reflect the ongoing improvements in Gaylord box design, including stacking strength, locking mechanisms, and ease of assembly—features that have made Gaylord boxes a mainstay in shipping and warehousing.

The global corrugated bulk bins (Gaylord boxes) market was valued at $14.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $20 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of over 5% from 2024 to 2032 (Global Market Insights, 2024). This growth is driven by the increasing demand for sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective bulk packaging solutions across industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and e-commerce (MarketsandMarkets, 2025).

Leading Manufacturers of Gaylord Boxes (Corrugated Bulk Bins)

• International Paper Company (USA)
• WestRock Company (USA)
• Smurfit Kappa Group (Ireland)
• DS Smith Plc (UK)
• Mondi Group (Austria/UK)
• Packaging Corporation of America (USA)
• Greif Inc. (USA)
• Cascades Inc. (Canada)

These companies are recognized for their innovation, global reach, and commitment to sustainable packaging solutions (The Insight Partners, 2024).

• NC State Extension: Produce Packaging – Bulk or Wholesale Packaging (2025)
• GBE Packaging: Corrugated Bulk Cargo Boxes Gaylord Cargo Bins (2025)
• Solus Group: Gaylord Boxes – Features, Handling, and History (2024)
• Laminations Online: Understanding Gaylord Boxes – Comprehensive Guide (2025)
• Kelly Box: Custom Large Corrugated & Gaylord Boxes (2025)
• Plastic Bag Partners: Gaylord Liners & Gaylord Bags (2025)
• MarketsandMarkets: Corrugated Bulk Bins Market (2025)
• Global Market Insights: Corrugated Bulk Bins Market (2024)
• The Insight Partners: Corrugated Bulk Bins Market (2024)
• US4361267A – Four-corner design for octagonal container
• US4702408A – Bulk bin
• US5178275A – Eight-sided columnar container
• US5573175A – Octagonal container with lock bottom

Gaylord boxes are an essential part of industrial packaging, helping companies move and store goods efficiently. Whether you’re in food processing, recycling, or large-scale manufacturing, knowing where to buy Gaylord boxes—and understanding the advantages of buying used—can save both money and resources.

Browse Verde Trader’s used Gaylord boxes to request a quote and find the right boxes for your application.