--- title: "Thermoformed Tray FAQ | Termotray" description: "Answers from Termotray's engineering team on custom thermoformed trays: ESD protection, matrix trays, returnable trays, molds, minimum orders, and quotes." url: "https://www.termotray.com.br/en/faq" --- # Frequently asked questions Common questions before you request a quote. - [Specification and ESD](https://www.termotray.com.br/en/faq#especificacao-e-esd) - [Process and automation](https://www.termotray.com.br/en/faq#processo-e-automacao) - [Returnable trays and shipping](https://www.termotray.com.br/en/faq#retornaveis-e-envio) - [How we work](https://www.termotray.com.br/en/faq#como-trabalhamos) ## Specification and ESD ### Does every part need ESD protection? No. Not every part needs ESD protection. It depends on the component and the application. In general, exposed components need ESD protection, while encapsulated parts often don't. Before specifying the tray, Termotray assesses what actually needs protection and recommends the most suitable option. ### What's the difference between conductive and dissipative trays? Conductive material drains charge quickly, while static dissipative material releases it gradually and in a controlled way. In many cases, dissipative material is all the component needs. Because conductive material costs more, it's worth confirming the class with Termotray's engineering team before you request a quote. ### Topical or in-resin anti-static: which should I choose? The choice between topical and in-resin anti-static depends on the tray's service life. A topical anti-static coating works well for single-use or short-cycle trays. An in-resin anti-static additive keeps the tray protected for years and suits trays built for many use cycles. ### Is there a best material for trays? No. There's no single best tray material, only the one best suited to the tray's life cycle and function. ## Process and automation ### What is a matrix tray? A matrix tray is an indexed, robot-ready tray in which every pocket has an exact, repeatable position, like an address. ### How do you use poka-yoke in parts packaging? In a poka-yoke tray, each cavity accepts the part only in the correct position. Left-hand and right-hand parts, for example, fit only in their own cavities. ### Do process trays work for kanban? Yes, process trays work for kanban. Fixed positions make it easier to see, count, and spot missing parts. Parts are counted by tray and by box, and tray color can signal each part's status on the line. ## Returnable trays and shipping ### Does a returnable tray always cost less in the end? Not always. Whether a returnable tray costs less depends on where the tray goes after use. The tray's price is only part of the full cost, which also includes cost per cycle, freight, disposal, and part damage. When the tray ends its trip at the customer's assembly line, an expendable tray is usually the best choice. ### Does Termotray dispose of used trays? Yes, Termotray disposes of used trays when needed. You can ship the trays back to Termotray at your own expense (reverse logistics), and we'll dispose of them properly. ### Will the tray fit my KLT bin? Yes. The tray is sized to fit the KLT bin, rack, or OEM-standard packaging you already use. ### Loose lid or snap-lock lid: which should I choose? A loose lid is used when the tray above already covers the one below. A snap-lock lid holds the part without marking it and is recommended for shipping and more demanding handling. ### Can I see the part without opening the package? Yes. Clear inserts and blisters allow visual inspection of the part without opening the package. ## How we work ### Do you sell stock trays off the shelf? No. Termotray doesn't sell off-the-shelf trays. Every tray is custom-designed around the part's geometry, the cavity layout, and the application, and specified for the job it will do. ### Is there a minimum order quantity? No. There's no minimum order quantity (MOQ). Termotray handles everything from pilot runs to volume production, in the quantities your operation needs. The one exception is a custom color developed for a specific customer, which requires a minimum purchase. ### I already have a mold with another supplier. Can I reuse it? Possibly. Termotray will evaluate your existing mold to see whether it can be reused, which would reduce your upfront investment. If you can, send your current tray, or photos of it, along with your part details to speed up the review. ### What do I need to send to get started? Termotray needs four things to get started. The part: a physical sample, drawing, or 3D CAD file. The volume: quantity per lot and frequency of use. The workflow: where and how the tray will be used. The requirements: ESD protection when needed, technical cleanliness, a standard box or rack, and anything your customer specifies. With this information, Termotray's team reviews your application and prepares an initial tray proposal for your part. ## Get answers from our engineering team If your question isn't answered here, contact our engineering team before you request a quote. [Request a Quote](https://www.termotray.com.br/en/quote) [Contact Engineering](https://wa.me/5511976999471?text=Hi%20Termotray%2C%20I%20have%20a%20part%20I'd%20like%20your%20engineering%20team%20to%20evaluate.) --- Termotray is a Brazilian manufacturer of custom thermoformed trays for auto parts, electronics, and sensitive components, based in Guararema, São Paulo. - Request a Quote: https://www.termotray.com.br/en/quote - Site index for AI agents: https://www.termotray.com.br/llms.txt - Instructions for AI agents: https://www.termotray.com.br/agents.md