Returnable transport containers

What it is

Returnable transport containers are designed to travel back and forth between a sender and receiver. Many include custom inserts (called dunnage) that hold each part in a fixed position, protecting it and making it easy to count and pick.

How it works

• Containers and inserts are designed around the product being shipped.
• Parts are placed into fixed positions in the container.
• Containers move to the receiving site, often directly to the production line.
• Empty containers return to the supplier for the next cycle.

Operational benefits

• Strong protection for sensitive or high-value parts.
• Parts arrive presented and ready to use at the line.
• Counting is visual and fast: an empty slot is a missing part.
• Less unpacking and waste handling at the receiving site.

Who needs it?

• Automotive and aerospace supply chains.
• Electronics and precision component makers.
• Any business shipping the same parts on a repeating schedule.

When to use it

• You ship identical parts between the same sites repeatedly.
• Product damage or unpacking time is a problem.
• Receiving teams spend too long counting and sorting.

Important considerations

• Custom inserts add design time and upfront cost.
• Changes to the product may require new inserts.