Custom Wood Crates in Indianapolis and Noblesville

When a crate makes sense

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A pallet with stretch wrap works for boxes and stacked goods. It does not work for a $50,000 machine, a tall part that can tip, or anything that cannot take a bump. A crate puts walls, a lid and bracing around the load, so the product is protected on every side.

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Crates also make sense for export. A crate built with ISPM-15 heat-treated lumber can cross the border without a customs hold.

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What goes into a custom crate

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• A skid base sized to the product, with runners a forklift can pick up

• Plywood or board sides and a removable lid

• Interior blocking and bracing so the load cannot shift

• Foam or moisture protection if the product needs it (ask when you call)

• Stenciled handling marks, weight and orientation

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Crate or skid?

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Not everything needs walls. A heavy machine that is not fragile often ships fine on a custom skid with bolt-down points. Do you need full protection, or just a solid base? Tell us what you are shipping and how it travels, and Curt will tell you which one does the job for less.

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How to order custom crates

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Call or text Curt at 765-661-3643 with the product dimensions, the weight, how it ships and where it is going. Photos or a drawing help. Curt will tell you what a builder can do and what it costs.

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Need the rest of your packaging too? We also source custom wood pallets and gaylord boxes on the same order.

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Questions about custom crates

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How long does a custom crate take?

It depends on the size and how complex the crate is. Call with your ship date, and Curt will tell you plainly whether a builder can make it.

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Can you crate equipment for export?

Yes. Export crates are built with heat-treated lumber and carry the ISPM-15 stamp customs looks for.

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Can a crate be reused?

Often, yes. A crate with a screwed lid and a solid base can make several trips if it is handled with care.