Returnable containers have been very popular in simple and closed loop distribution systems. The container offers many advantages to the shipper and receiver. Better part protection, reduced solid waste, improved ergonomics and, cost savings. CHEP-USA even announced that it will form a returnable container pool for the produce industry. Calculating the life cycle of the container, the user can expect hundreds of trips versus that of recyclable cardboard containers.
Recycling is good, but reusable is better.
Wooden pallets are viewed as being both transferable and returnable. The deposit system on a quality pallet also has a high ROI, the logistical problems here are the collection of pallets and the return of deposits. Alternatively, volume shippers use of pallet rental pools have grown in popularity. A rented pallet relieves the shipper of the purchase, return and repair costs while providing a strong safe pallet for transport and storage. Environmentally, these pallets are made to provide hundreds of trips during its life.