Arizona Packaging
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products, services, and processes

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Products

What is a gaylord box?

A gaylord box is a large, heavy-duty corrugated container typically used for bulk storage and shipping. They are often placed on pallets and can hold anywhere from 500 to 2,500 pounds depending on construction. The name comes from the Gaylord Container Corporation, which originally manufactured them.

What sizes of gaylord boxes do you carry?

We stock standard sizes including 48x40x36", 48x40x48", 48x45x36", and many others. We also have access to specialty sizes. Our most popular size is the 48x40x36" which fits standard pallets perfectly.

What is the difference between Grade A, B, and C boxes?

Grade A boxes are in excellent condition with minimal wear, suitable for clean products and customer-facing applications. Grade B boxes show some wear but remain structurally sound, ideal for industrial use. Grade C boxes have visible damage but are functional for single-use applications or recycling.

Do you sell new gaylord boxes or only used?

We primarily deal in used gaylord boxes, which offer significant cost savings while remaining fully functional. However, we can source new boxes for customers who require them. Contact us for new box pricing and availability.

What types of pallets do you offer?

We offer wooden pallets (standard 48x40" GMA pallets, block pallets, stringer pallets), plastic pallets, and specialty sizes. Our inventory includes both used and refurbished options across all grades.

What is an IBC tote and what are they used for?

IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) totes are reusable industrial containers designed for transporting and storing liquids and granulated substances. They typically hold 275-330 gallons and are mounted on a pallet base for easy handling with forklifts.

How many times can a gaylord box be reused?

A well-maintained gaylord box can typically be reused 3-5 times before needing repair or recycling. Grade A boxes from our inventory often have 4-5 uses remaining. Proper handling, avoiding moisture, and not exceeding weight limits extends the lifespan significantly.

What is the weight capacity of your gaylord boxes?

Weight capacity varies by construction. Standard single-wall gaylords handle 500-800 lbs, double-wall boxes support 1,000-1,500 lbs, and triple-wall construction can hold up to 2,500 lbs. We recommend staying 20% below maximum capacity for extended use.

Do you have heat-treated pallets for international shipping?

Yes, we stock ISPM-15 compliant heat-treated pallets required for international shipping. These pallets bear the HT stamp and meet phytosanitary standards for export. We can provide certificates of compliance upon request.

What is the difference between block and stringer pallets?

Stringer pallets use boards (stringers) running between the top and bottom deck boards, accessible from two sides. Block pallets use blocks of wood at corners and center, allowing four-way forklift access. Block pallets are typically stronger and more versatile.

Pricing & Orders

How is pricing determined?

Pricing depends on product type, grade/condition, quantity ordered, and current market conditions. Used packaging prices fluctuate based on supply and demand. We provide custom quotes for each order to ensure you get the best value.

Is there a minimum order quantity?

Minimum orders vary by product. For gaylord boxes, our minimum is typically 50 units. For pallets, the minimum is usually one truckload (approximately 400-500 pallets). For smaller quantities, we may be able to accommodate based on availability.

Do you offer volume discounts?

Yes, we offer tiered pricing for larger orders. The more you purchase, the better your per-unit price. Contact us with your quantity needs for a custom quote.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept company checks, wire transfers, and ACH payments. For new customers, we typically require payment before delivery. Established customers may qualify for net-30 terms after credit approval.

Can I get a sample before placing a large order?

Yes, we encourage customers to inspect products before large purchases. We can arrange for you to visit our facility or, in some cases, send samples for a nominal fee plus shipping.

Do you offer credit terms for businesses?

Yes, we offer net-30 payment terms for qualified businesses. New customers start with prepayment, and after establishing a positive payment history (typically 3-4 orders), you can apply for credit terms. We require a credit application and may check references.

How do I get a quote?

You can request a quote through our website contact form, by email at info@arizona-packaging.com, or by calling us directly. Please include product type, quantity, grade preference, and delivery location for the most accurate quote. We typically respond within 24 hours.

Are prices negotiable for large orders?

Absolutely. We offer significant volume discounts for truckload quantities and ongoing supply contracts. The more you order, the better your per-unit pricing. Contact us to discuss your needs and we will work to find pricing that fits your budget.

Do you charge for delivery?

Delivery pricing depends on distance, quantity, and accessibility of your location. For large orders within the Phoenix metro area, we often include delivery at no extra charge. All quotes include transparent delivery pricing so there are no surprises.

Services

Do you buy used packaging materials?

Absolutely! We purchase used gaylord boxes, pallets, and IBC totes in all conditions. We offer competitive prices and can arrange pickup from your facility. Contact us with details about what you have available.

What does your repair service include?

Our repair services include replacing damaged panels on gaylord boxes, rebuilding and re-nailing pallets, cleaning and testing IBC totes, and replacing valves or caps as needed. Repaired items are inspected to ensure they meet quality standards.

How does your recycling program work?

We accept packaging materials that are beyond repair for recycling. Corrugated cardboard is baled and sent to paper mills. Wood pallets are chipped for mulch, animal bedding, or biomass fuel. Plastic is processed for reuse in manufacturing.

Do you provide transportation?

Yes, we offer delivery throughout Arizona and can arrange shipping to other states. Our fleet includes flatbed trucks and enclosed trailers. Delivery costs depend on distance and quantity.

Can you help with inventory management?

Yes, we offer managed inventory programs for customers with regular packaging needs. We store inventory at our facility and deliver on a scheduled basis. This helps you maintain consistent supply without tying up warehouse space.

Do you offer emergency or rush services?

We understand that sometimes you need packaging urgently. For customers in the Phoenix metro area, we can often arrange same-day or next-day delivery for in-stock items. Rush fees may apply depending on circumstances.

Can you customize gaylord boxes?

While we primarily sell standard used boxes, we can source custom sizes and specifications for larger orders. Custom options include printed boxes, specific wall thicknesses, and specialty coatings. Lead times and minimums apply for custom orders.

Delivery & Logistics

What areas do you serve?

We serve the entire state of Arizona with our own trucks. For customers outside Arizona, we can arrange freight shipping to anywhere in the continental United States.

How long does delivery take?

Local Arizona deliveries are typically completed within 3-5 business days of order confirmation. Rush delivery may be available for an additional fee. Out-of-state shipments usually take 5-10 business days.

Do I need a loading dock for delivery?

A loading dock or forklift is ideal for receiving full truckloads. If you do not have a dock, we can arrange liftgate service for smaller orders or coordinate with a local freight terminal.

Can you store inventory for scheduled deliveries?

Yes, we offer warehousing and scheduled delivery programs for customers with ongoing needs. This allows you to lock in pricing and ensure consistent supply without taking immediate delivery of full quantities.

What type of trucks do you use for delivery?

Our fleet includes 48-foot flatbed trailers for full truckloads, enclosed box trucks for smaller orders, and all trucks are equipped with forklifts for offloading at your location. This ensures we can handle any delivery situation.

Do you deliver to construction sites?

Yes, we regularly deliver to construction sites, temporary locations, and other non-traditional destinations. Just let us know about any access restrictions, surface conditions, or special requirements when ordering.

Can I pick up my order at your facility?

Absolutely! Will-call pickup is available at our Phoenix facility during business hours (Monday-Friday, 7 AM - 4 PM). This can save on delivery costs, especially for smaller orders. Please call ahead to ensure your order is ready.

Quality & Safety

How do you ensure quality of used products?

All incoming products are inspected and sorted by grade. We have specific criteria for each grade level. Products that do not meet our standards are repaired or recycled. We stand behind our grading system.

Are your products food-safe?

Our Grade A products can be suitable for food-related applications, though we recommend discussing your specific requirements with us. We can source food-grade IBC totes and boxes that have only been used with food products.

Do you clean products before resale?

IBC totes are cleaned and inspected before resale. Gaylord boxes and pallets are sorted and debris is removed, but deep cleaning is not standard. We can arrange additional cleaning services if required.

What is your return policy?

If products do not match the grade ordered or arrive damaged, we will replace them at no charge or issue a credit. Please report any issues within 48 hours of delivery with photos. We stand behind our grading system and want you to be satisfied.

Are IBC totes pressure tested?

All IBC totes undergo visual inspection and valve testing. For customers requiring pressure testing or hydrostatic testing, we can arrange certified testing services. Let us know your requirements when ordering.

Can contaminated totes be cleaned for reuse?

It depends on what was previously stored in the tote. Many substances can be fully removed through our cleaning process. However, totes that held hazardous materials or certain chemicals may not be suitable for reuse. We evaluate each tote individually.

Environmental & Sustainability

How does buying used packaging help the environment?

Used packaging extends the life of materials that would otherwise go to landfills. Each reused gaylord box saves trees, water, and energy compared to manufacturing new. Pallets kept in circulation reduce logging demand. We estimate our operations keep over 5,000 tons of materials out of landfills annually.

Do you provide sustainability documentation?

Yes, we can provide documentation of your environmental impact for corporate sustainability reports. This includes estimates of waste diverted, carbon savings, and recycling certificates. Many customers use this data for ESG reporting.

What happens to products that cannot be reused?

Products beyond repair are responsibly recycled. Cardboard is baled and sent to paper mills for recycling into new products. Wood is chipped for mulch, animal bedding, or biomass energy. Plastic components are processed for manufacturing reuse.

Are your practices certified or audited?

We follow industry best practices for packaging reuse and recycling. Our recycling partners are certified facilities. While we do not currently hold third-party certifications, we maintain detailed records of our material handling and can provide documentation upon request.

Business & Partnerships

Do you work with brokers or distributors?

Yes, we partner with packaging brokers and distributors throughout the Southwest. If you regularly source packaging for clients, contact us about partnership pricing and priority inventory access.

Can you provide ongoing supply contracts?

Absolutely. For customers with regular needs, we offer annual or multi-year supply agreements. These contracts provide price stability, guaranteed availability, and priority scheduling. Contact us to discuss your anticipated needs.

Do you offer referral programs?

We value customer referrals. If you refer a business that becomes a customer, we offer credits toward your next order. Ask your sales representative about our current referral incentives.

How long have you been in business?

Arizona Packaging Solutions was founded in 2009. We have been serving Arizona businesses for over 15 years, building a reputation for reliability, quality, and fair pricing. Many of our original customers still work with us today.

Are you insured?

Yes, we carry comprehensive general liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. We can provide certificates of insurance upon request for customers who require documentation from vendors.

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