A Practical Guide to Selecting Reusable Plastic Containers Based on Capacity, Dimensions and Handling Requirements

Choosing the right attached lid container size is an important decision for warehouses, distribution centers, logistics companies, and manufacturing facilities. The wrong container size can lead to inefficient space utilization, unnecessary handling operations, and difficulties in organizing products during storage and transportation.

For businesses using reusable plastic packaging, selecting a suitable container involves more than comparing nominal volume. External dimensions, internal dimensions, container height, product weight, loading requirements, and handling conditions should all be considered.

A small container may be suitable for compact components and individual product picking, while a larger container can accommodate bulkier items and reduce the number of containers needed for certain operations.

As an experienced attached lid container manufacturer, FIRST offers multiple sizes of reusable PP plastic containers, ranging from 21L to 171L. This range helps customers select suitable packaging solutions for different warehouse applications.

In this guide, we explain how to evaluate container dimensions, compare different capacities, and choose the right nestable attached lid container for your operational requirements.

1. Why Container Size Matters in Warehouse Operations

Container size directly affects how products are stored, handled, transported, and organized throughout warehouse operations.

Selecting an appropriate plastic attached lid container can help businesses improve several aspects of material handling.

Better Space Utilization

Containers that are too large may leave unnecessary empty space around stored products, while containers that are too small may require multiple boxes for the same order.

Choosing the right internal dimensions helps businesses use available container space more effectively.

More Efficient Picking and Sorting

In distribution centers and e-commerce warehouses, containers are frequently used for order picking, product sorting, and internal transfers.

Different container sizes allow operators to organize products according to SKU, order quantity, or handling requirements.

Easier Product Handling

Container dimensions and weight influence how easily employees can lift, carry, and move loaded containers.

For operations involving frequent manual handling, compact and appropriately sized crates may be more practical than oversized containers.

Improved Storage Organization

A consistent range of container dimensions makes it easier to establish organized storage and handling procedures.

When businesses use different container sizes for specific product categories, warehouse staff can identify and organize materials more efficiently.

2. Overview of FIRST Attached Lid Container Sizes

FIRST provides several PP attached lid container models to accommodate different storage volumes and operational requirements.

The following table shows the available specifications.

These models cover different container capacities, from compact 21L storage boxes to large 171L containers.

The 600 × 400mm footprint series offers four different heights, giving customers more flexibility when selecting containers for products with different dimensions.

Note: The listed volumes, dimensions, and weights are based on product specifications. Actual usable capacity may vary depending on product shape and loading arrangement.

3. How to Choose the Right Container Capacity

Different warehouse operations require different container capacities. Rather than choosing the largest available option, buyers should consider the size, quantity, and characteristics of the products being handled.

21L Attached Lid Container: For Small Products and Compact Storage

The FSD XC43260 has a 21L capacity and external dimensions of 400 × 300 × 260mm.

Its relatively compact size makes it suitable for operations involving smaller products, accessories, and individual components.

Potential applications include:

• Small industrial components.

• Electronic accessories.

• Hardware and spare parts.

• Retail product sorting.

• Small-item warehouse picking.

For businesses handling multiple small product categories, compact containers can help organize inventory and reduce unnecessary mixing of different items.

45L Attached Lid Container: For General Warehouse Picking

The FSD XC64265 offers a 45L capacity with external dimensions of 600 × 400 × 265mm.

This model provides a practical balance between storage capacity and handling size.

It may be suitable for:

• General warehouse order picking.

• Small and medium-sized packaged products.

• Distribution center sorting.

• Retail inventory transfers.

• Daily material circulation.

For warehouses requiring a relatively low container height, this model provides a useful option within the 600 × 400mm series.

56L Attached Lid Container: For Medium-Sized Storage Requirements

The FSD XC64315 has a 56L capacity and measures 600 × 400 × 315mm externally.

Compared with the 45L model, it provides additional internal height while maintaining the same external footprint.

This makes it worth considering when products require more vertical storage space but do not need a substantially larger container footprint.

Potential applications include:

• Medium-sized industrial components.

• Packaged goods.

• Warehouse inventory transfers.

• General distribution operations.

• Reusable storage and transportation.

63L Attached Lid Container: For Higher-Volume Storage

The FSD XC64350 offers 63L of storage capacity, with external dimensions of 600 × 400 × 350mm.

Its increased height provides additional storage volume compared with the 45L and 56L models.

It may be suitable for businesses handling larger packaged products, multiple components, and materials that require additional vertical clearance.

Typical applications include:

• Industrial parts storage.

• Warehouse replenishment.

• Packaged product distribution.

• Internal material handling.

• Commercial storage operations.

67L Attached Lid Container: For Larger Items and Higher Storage Volume

The FSD XC64365 provides a 67L capacity and measures 600 × 400 × 365mm externally.

Among the four 600 × 400mm models, it offers the largest stated capacity.

Its 550 × 370 × 350mm internal dimensions provide additional vertical space for products that may not fit comfortably in shorter containers.

Potential applications include:

• Larger industrial components.

• Bulky packaged goods.

• Warehouse material circulation.

• Commercial moving operations.

• Distribution of products requiring greater container height.

When comparing this model with the 63L version, buyers should consider the actual dimensions of their products rather than choosing based on volume alone.

171L Attached Lid Container: For Large-Volume Storage and Transportation

The FSD XC7657/62 is the largest model in this product range, with a capacity of 171L and external dimensions of 760 × 570 × 620mm.

Its larger internal dimensions make it suitable for storing and transporting bulkier products that require more space than standard-sized containers can provide.

Potential applications include:

• Large industrial components.

• Bulky packaged materials.

• Manufacturing supplies.

• Large-volume warehouse storage.

• Internal transportation of multiple items.

However, larger containers also require more consideration regarding loaded weight, handling equipment, storage arrangements, and available warehouse space.

Businesses should evaluate these factors before selecting a large-capacity attached lid container.

4. 45L vs 56L vs 63L vs 67L: Which 600 × 400mm Container Should You Choose?

The four 600 × 400mm models deserve particular attention because they share the same external footprint but offer different heights and storage capacities.

This allows businesses to select container height according to their product dimensions without changing the basic footprint of their container system.

What Are the Main Differences?

45L Model: Lower-Height Storage

The 45L container is suitable when products require less vertical clearance. Its lower height may also be advantageous for certain picking and handling arrangements.

56L Model: Additional Internal Height

The 56L model offers 55mm more internal height than the 45L version, making it suitable for products requiring additional vertical clearance.

63L Model: Greater Storage Volume

The 63L container provides additional capacity for products that need more internal space without changing the external footprint.

67L Model: Maximum Capacity in the 600 × 400mm Series

The 67L model offers the largest stated capacity among the four models. Its additional internal height makes it suitable for relatively taller products.

Which One Is Better?

There is no universally best model.

The right choice depends on:

• The maximum dimensions of the products being stored.

• The required internal clearance.

• The number of products per container.

• The total loaded weight.

• The warehouse storage and transportation arrangement.

For businesses handling several product categories, using multiple container heights within the same footprint series may provide greater flexibility.

5. Five Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Attached Lid Containers

Before placing a bulk order, purchasing managers should evaluate more than the nominal capacity of a plastic container.

1. Product Dimensions and Internal Space

Always compare product dimensions with the container's internal dimensions rather than its external measurements.

Consider the longest, widest, and tallest points of the products being stored.

For irregularly shaped products, allow sufficient clearance to make loading and unloading easier.

2. Product Weight and Container Load Capacity

Container volume does not automatically determine load capacity.

A large container may accommodate more products by volume, but its actual load-bearing performance depends on material, wall structure, bottom design, and operating conditions.

Before ordering, confirm:

• Recommended single-container load capacity.

• Stacking load capacity.

• Dynamic handling requirements.

• Actual operating conditions.

These specifications should be confirmed with the manufacturer rather than estimated from container volume.

3. Container Height and Warehouse Layout

Container height can affect shelf clearance, stacking arrangements, and available storage space.

If your warehouse uses shelving systems, conveyors, or automated material handling equipment, check the compatibility of the selected container dimensions with the existing equipment.

4. Handling Frequency and Operating Environment

For containers used frequently, material durability and structural design become particularly important.

Consider whether containers will be handled manually, moved using carts, or transferred through automated warehouse systems.

The selected container should be appropriate for the actual handling environment.

5. Empty Container Storage and Return Transportation

For businesses operating reusable packaging systems, empty-container storage is an important consideration.

The nestable design of attached lid containers allows empty units to fit inside one another, helping reduce the space required for storage and return transportation.

Buyers should compare the nesting configuration and actual nested dimensions of different models when calculating their logistics requirements.

6. Why Choose Nestable Attached Lid Containers for Warehouse Applications?

Compared with conventional storage boxes with separate removable lids, attached lid containers combine a hinged lid with a reusable plastic body.

This structure offers several practical advantages for warehouse and distribution operations.

Integrated Lid Design

The lid remains connected to the container body, reducing the risk of losing separate lids during repeated handling.

Nestable Structure

Empty containers can be nested together to reduce storage volume when they are not being used.

Reusable PP Construction

Polypropylene offers durability and impact resistance for repeated storage and transportation applications.

Convenient Product Organization

The lid helps keep products covered, while optional colors, labels, and logo printing can support warehouse identification.

Multiple Size Options

Different capacities and dimensions allow businesses to choose containers according to their products and operational requirements.

For companies looking to establish a reusable container system, selecting the right combination of sizes can improve storage organization and handling efficiency.

7. Custom Attached Lid Container Manufacturing by FIRST

Selecting the right container size is only one part of building an efficient packaging system. Consistent manufacturing quality and customization capabilities are also important when purchasing plastic containers in bulk.

FIRST, operated by Suzhou Industrial Park First Plastics Co., Ltd., has over 70 years of manufacturing heritage in the plastic products industry.

Originally operating as a state-owned enterprise, the factory underwent restructuring and became privately operated in 1998. Today, FIRST continues to develop its plastic injection molding and reusable packaging manufacturing capabilities.

Our Manufacturing Capabilities

• Approximately 20 injection molding machines ranging from 500T to 2,500T.

• More than 35 testing machines for product inspection and quality control.

• Over 300 plastic product models.

• Approximately 3 million pieces in annual sales volume.

• A professional design team supporting customized product development.

OEM and ODM Customization Services

FIRST provides customized plastic container solutions for international distributors, wholesalers, manufacturers, and logistics companies.

Our customization services include:

• Custom container colors.

• Company logo printing.

• Product identification and labeling.

• Customized dimensions and structural design, subject to feasibility.

• Packaging solutions for export orders.

We also support product selection and sample evaluation to help customers identify suitable containers for their applications.

With over 70 years of manufacturing heritage, FIRST combines established production experience with modern manufacturing facilities to support long-term B2B packaging requirements.

8. Frequently Asked Questions About Attached Lid Container Sizes

1. What sizes of attached lid containers does FIRST manufacture?

FIRST currently offers six models ranging from 21L to 171L, including 400 × 300mm, 600 × 400mm, and 760 × 570mm external footprints.

2. Which attached lid container is suitable for general warehouse storage?

The 45L, 56L, 63L, and 67L models are worth considering for general warehouse applications. All four share a 600 × 400mm external footprint but offer different heights and internal capacities.

The final selection should depend on product dimensions, loading requirements, and warehouse layout.

3. What is the difference between a 45L and a 67L attached lid container?

Both models have the same external length and width of 600 × 400mm. However, the 67L model is 100mm taller externally and offers greater internal height and storage volume.

The 45L model is more suitable for products requiring less vertical clearance, while the 67L model accommodates taller products.

4. Are attached lid containers suitable for warehouse picking?

Yes. Attached lid containers can be used for order picking, product sorting, inventory transfers, and internal material handling.

Different sizes allow warehouses to organize products according to their dimensions and handling requirements.

5. How do I calculate the required container capacity?

Measure the products' length, width, and height, then compare these dimensions with the container's internal dimensions.

For multiple products, consider their arrangement, packaging, and the space required for convenient loading and unloading.

6. Can I order different sizes of attached lid containers from one manufacturer?

Yes. FIRST offers multiple container models with different dimensions and capacities. Customers can discuss their required specifications and quantities with our sales team.

7. Does FIRST provide customized attached lid containers?

Yes. FIRST supports OEM and ODM services, including custom colors, logo printing, identification solutions, and customized product development subject to technical feasibility.

Find the Right Attached Lid Container for Your Business

Choosing the right attached lid container size can help improve warehouse organization, product handling, and reusable packaging management.

From compact 21L containers to large 171L models, FIRST offers a range of reusable PP plastic containers for different industrial and commercial applications.

With over 70 years of manufacturing heritage, modern injection molding equipment, and OEM/ODM customization capabilities, FIRST supports international customers looking for dependable plastic packaging solutions.

Contact FIRST today with your product dimensions, required container capacity, and order quantity. Our team can help you identify a suitable attached lid container model and provide a factory-direct quotation.