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Designed for continuous use, cycle after cycle
Thermoformed trays that move between departments in your plant, or between supplier and customer, and come back for the next cycle.
Two types of returnable trays
- In-plant: moves between departments in the same plant, from the start of the process to the end, and comes back. This is the most common type.
- Between companies: a closed loop in which the tray travels from supplier to customer and returns empty, cycle after cycle.
When the end customer discards the tray at assembly, an expendable tray is usually the better fit. That case is covered on the Inserts, Lids & Blisters page.
The math on returnable trays
The tray's price is only part of the equation. Cost per cycle, freight (with more parts per box), disposal, and part damage also factor in. If needed, you can ship the trays back to Termotray at your own expense (reverse logistics), and we'll dispose of them properly.
Fits what you already use
The tray is sized for the box you already use, whether that's a KLT bin (small load carrier), a rack, or OEM-standard packaging.
Stacks, protects, and takes up less space
The tray on top acts as the lid for the one below, and an empty tray usually goes on top to close the stack. The stack takes up less room in the shipping box and gives the parts more protection.
Material built to last
Termotray uses heavier-gauge sheet and impact- and oil-resistant materials, selected for each tray's life cycle and application.
We work with sheet thicknesses from 0.30 mm to 6 mm.
Washable and residue-free
A washable plastic tray is an alternative to cardboard for operations with technical cleanliness requirements on the line.
Identification on the tray
When the process requires it, we mark the part number or the customer's name on the tray itself.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Yes. The tray is sized to fit the KLT bin, rack, or OEM-standard packaging you already use.
Tell us about your part, your box, and the tray's life cycle
We calculate how many parts fit per box and propose the appropriate tray.