FAQ
Got questions about our plastic storage boxes and containers?
You're in the right place. Below you'll find answers to the most common questions we're asked about ordering, delivery, product specifications, and everything in between.
Whether you're a business looking for warehouse solutions or simply sorting out your home storage, we're here to help.
Can't find what you're looking for? Give us a call on 01327 340177 – our friendly team are always happy to chat.
Ordering & Delivery
How quickly can I receive my order?
We offer flexible delivery options to suit your needs. Standard delivery takes 2-3 days (£20), whilst next-day delivery (£25) is available for in-stock items ordered before 1pm. All orders are prepared for dispatch the same day they're received, so you're never waiting around. With over 200,000 products in stock at our Northamptonshire facility, we can usually fulfil orders immediately.
Can I collect my order on the same day?
Yes! Same-day collection is available subject to stock. Simply call us to arrange collection and we'll provide a booking reference. Collections are available 9am-5pm from our Northampton warehouse, conveniently located just off M1 Junction 16 – within an hour of Birmingham, Leicester, Oxford and Cambridge.
Do you only sell to businesses?
Not at all! We're delighted to serve both businesses and domestic customers. Whether you're a multinational logistics company, a small business, or simply sorting out your home storage, you'll receive the same great service and quality products.
Is there a minimum order quantity?
No minimum order required. Whether you need a single box or a full pallet load, we're happy to help.
Where do you deliver?
We deliver throughout the UK mainland as standard. Domestic and international shipping options aren't offered as standard but can be arranged on request – just get in touch to discuss your requirements.
What if I miss my delivery?
If you're not available when the courier arrives, they'll leave a card with instructions for redelivery or depot collection. It's then your responsibility to arrange redelivery directly with the courier.
Product Information
What's the difference between virgin plastic and recycled plastic boxes?
Our standard range uses virgin polypropylene for maximum strength and durability. Our EcoTote range uses high-quality recycled plastic, offering the same robust performance at a lower price point whilst being kinder to the environment.
Are your boxes food-safe?
Our virgin polypropylene products are suitable for food contact and storage. Generally, we wouldn't recommend recycled material be used for direct contact with food, though they're perfectly fine for fruit and veg. Specific food-grade certifications vary by product range, so please check individual product specifications or contact us to discuss your requirements.
What weight can your boxes hold?
Weight capacities vary by product. For example, our 64-litre attached lid containers have a 40kg weight capacity, whilst our heavy-duty euro containers can handle loads of 25kg+ and stack up to ten high. Always check the specifications for your chosen product.
What temperature range can the boxes withstand?
Most of our polypropylene containers handle typical warehouse and storage conditions without issue. Our DOLAV pallet boxes are specifically rated for -40°C to +60°C, making them ideal for cold storage or outdoor use. Check product specifications for exact tolerances.
Can I get boxes in specific colours?
We stock a range of standard colours including black, blue, green, red, yellow, and grey across various product lines. For bespoke colour options or custom branding (such as printed logos), please contact us to discuss your requirements and minimum order quantities.
What's the difference between euro containers and attached lid containers?
Euro containers have separate lids (or can be used without lids) and are designed primarily for storage and stacking. They have vertical sides for maximum internal volume. Attached lid containers (ALCs or tote boxes) have hinged lids that stay connected to the box, making them ideal for distribution, logistics, and situations where lids must not get separated or lost.
How does plastic compare to cardboard?
Plastic containers significantly outlast cardboard boxes. They don't rot, fall apart when wet, or deteriorate over time. They're more solid and stronger, offering better protection for your contents during transport and storage. Whilst the initial cost is higher than cardboard, plastic boxes can be reused hundreds of times, making them far more cost-effective over their lifetime and significantly reducing packaging waste.
Returns & Warranty
What's your warranty?
All Original Totebox products come with a 2-year warranty, giving you peace of mind that you're investing in quality storage that lasts.
Can I return products if they're not suitable?
Yes, we accept returns within 14 days of delivery, provided the goods are unused and in their original, resaleable condition. Please contact us before returning any items to arrange authorisation. Unauthorised returns cannot be refunded.
What if my order arrives damaged?
Please inspect goods on delivery and note any damage on the delivery paperwork. Report any issues to us within 24 hours (and no later than 7 days from delivery) so we can arrange a replacement or refund promptly. We ask that you don't dispose of damaged goods until we've agreed a resolution.
Pricing & Payment
What's your price promise?
If you find the same box cheaper elsewhere, we promise to beat it. Just let us know and we'll match or better any genuine like-for-like quote.
Do you offer bulk discounts?
Yes, we offer competitive pricing on larger quantities. Bundle deals and pallet quantities often provide significant savings. Contact our sales team for a tailored quote on bulk orders.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit and debit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers (BACS). For regular business customers, we also offer credit account facilities subject to approval.
Can I set up a trade account?
Absolutely. We work with businesses of all sizes and can set up credit accounts for established customers. Contact us to discuss your requirements and we'll guide you through the process.
Do you offer site visits?
Yes, for larger projects we can arrange site visits to assess your requirements and recommend the best storage solutions. This is particularly useful for warehouse fit-outs, major reorganisations, or complex storage challenges. Get in touch to discuss your project.
Sustainability
What are EcoTotes?
Our EcoTote range is manufactured from high-quality recycled plastic in the UK. They offer the same robust performance as virgin plastic equivalents but at a lower cost and with a smaller environmental footprint.
Are EcoTotes exempt from the Plastic Packaging Tax?
Yes, because EcoTotes are made from recycled plastic, they're exempt from the UK Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), saving you money whilst doing your bit for the environment.
What happens to boxes at end of life?
We work with a local recycling company who collects end-of-life boxes to be broken down and recycled into new products. This is part of our drive towards 100% sustainability. When your boxes eventually reach the end of their working life (which, with proper use, should be many years), they can be fully recycled.
Are all your products recyclable?
Yes, our polypropylene products are fully recyclable. We encourage customers to recycle boxes when they're no longer needed, preventing plastic from ending up in landfill or our oceans.
Product Selection Help
How do I choose the right box size?
Consider what you're storing and how you'll be using the boxes. For distribution and transport, attached lid containers work brilliantly. For warehouse storage and picking operations, euro containers offer maximum stacking efficiency. Think about your handling equipment too – euro sizes are designed to fit standard pallets and shelving systems.
What does "euro" mean in euro containers?
Euro containers follow standardised European footprints that stack efficiently on pallets. Common sizes include 400×300mm, 600×400mm, and 800×600mm. This standardisation means they integrate perfectly with warehousing systems, dollies, and shelving.
How do euro containers fit on pallets?
Euro containers are designed to maximise pallet space. For example, 600×400mm boxes stack in four columns on a 1200×800mm euro pallet or five columns on a 1200×1000mm UK pallet. Half-size 400×300mm boxes stack two-up on 600×400mm containers, creating flexible, modular loads.
I'm not sure which product is right for my needs. Can you help?
Of course! Our team has extensive experience across all industries from automotive and healthcare to education and e-commerce. Give us a call on 01327 340177 or email sales@totebox.co.uk and we'll help you find the perfect storage solution.
Miscellaneous
What does the name "Totebox" come from?
Great question! "Tote" comes from the verb meaning "to carry" – originally from the African-American dialect of the 17th century.
Tote boxes and tote bags got their name because they're designed to be carried around, making them perfect for transporting goods.
We think it's the perfect name for our range of portable, practical storage containers. After all, we're the home of the Original Totebox!
Still got questions?
We're here to help. Contact our friendly team:
Phone: 01327 340 177
Email: sales@totebox.co.uk
Opening hours:
Monday to Thursday, 9am – 5pm
Friday 9am - 4pm