Pluscrates.com Review

Based on looking at the website, Pluscrates.com appears to be a legitimate UK-based crate hire service, offering various moving and packaging solutions for both domestic and commercial clients.

The site provides a comprehensive overview of their services, product offerings, and operational details, suggesting a transparent and established business.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Professionalism: High. The site is well-structured, clear, and provides essential business information.
• Product/Service Clarity: Excellent. Detailed descriptions for crates, handling equipment, and packaging.
• Pricing Information: Available for individual products, with notes on trade discounts.
• Contact Information: Readily available phone, email.
• Delivery & Logistics: Clearly outlined, including nationwide coverage and depot locations.
• Customer Support: Mentioned through skilled staff and dedicated account managers for larger clients.
• Ethical Standing Islamic Perspective: Permissible. The services offered crate hire, moving equipment, packaging are practical, beneficial, and do not involve any forbidden elements. It facilitates lawful activities such as moving homes or offices.

The website provides a solid foundation of information for potential customers.

Best Alternatives for Moving and Storage Solutions:

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When it comes to moving and storage, having reliable, ethical options is key.

Here are some top alternatives, focusing on practicality and established reputation:

• U-Haul
  • Key Features: Truck and trailer rentals, moving supplies, self-storage, moving labor services.
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on truck size, distance, and duration.
  • Pros: Widespread availability across the US, comprehensive moving solutions, flexible rental periods.
  • Cons: Hidden fees can add up, customer service quality can vary, truck maintenance might be an issue.
• PODS
  • Key Features: Portable storage containers delivered to your location, flexible scheduling, local and long-distance moving.
  • Average Price: Typically higher than U-Haul for long-distance moves, depends on container size and duration.
  • Pros: Convenience of packing at your own pace, no need to drive a truck, storage solutions available.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive, delivery and pickup schedules might be less flexible in rural areas.
• Penske Truck Rental
  • Key Features: Wide range of truck sizes, roadside assistance, discount programs e.g., AAA, military.
  • Average Price: Competitive with U-Haul, often includes unlimited mileage for one-way rentals.
  • Pros: Generally newer and well-maintained trucks, reliable roadside assistance, good for one-way moves.
  • Cons: Fewer locations than U-Haul, can be slightly pricier for local rentals.
• Home Depot Truck Rental
  • Key Features: Flatbed trucks, cargo vans, and moving boxes for rent, often hourly rates.
  • Average Price: Very affordable for short-term, local moves e.g., hourly rates around $19-$29 plus mileage.
  • Pros: Convenient for small local moves or transporting large purchases, easy pickup and return.
  • Cons: Limited vehicle selection, not suitable for long-distance moves, availability can be hit or miss.
• Budget Truck Rental
  • Key Features: Various truck sizes, offers discounts for AARP, military, and students, one-way and local rentals.
  • Average Price: Often among the most competitive for one-way rentals.
  • Pros: Affordable pricing, good for budget-conscious movers, decent network of locations.
  • Cons: Customer service can be inconsistent, trucks may not be as new as Penske.
• Moving Boxes
  • Key Features: Essential for any move, available in various sizes and strengths.
  • Average Price: Varies based on size and quantity e.g., $20-$50 for a pack of 10-20 medium boxes.
  • Pros: Fundamental for organizing and protecting belongings, widely available, reusable.
  • Cons: Can be cumbersome to acquire in large quantities, recycling can be an issue if not reused.
• Moving Blankets and Supplies
  • Key Features: Protects furniture and fragile items during transit. Includes bubble wrap, tape, dollies.
  • Average Price: Blankets range from $10-$30 each, full kits vary from $50-$150.
  • Pros: Crucial for preventing damage, enhances safety for fragile items, reusable.
  • Cons: Can be an added cost if not planned for, takes up space when not in use.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Pluscrates.com Review & First Look

Diving into Pluscrates.com, it’s clear right from the homepage that this operation is about efficiency and practicality in the moving sector. They’re all about crate hire for both home and office moves across the UK. Think plastic moving crates, handling equipment, and packaging supplies. This isn’t some fly-by-night operation. they emphasize over 15 years in the business, now under The Hill Company’s wing since 2023. That kind of longevity and recent acquisition suggests a degree of stability and continued investment.

The website does a solid job presenting its core offerings upfront. You immediately see options for “Hire Crates,” “Shredding,” “Packaging,” “Bundles,” “Trade,” and “Equipment.” This modular approach to their services is smart, allowing users to quickly navigate to their specific needs. They highlight key selling points like National Depots, Easy Ordering, Next Day Delivery, Competitive Hire Rates, Full UK Coverage, and Timed Deliveries Available. These are all critical factors for anyone coordinating a move, especially within a business context where time is literally money.

Initial Impressions of Service Range

Beyond just crates, they’ve got the whole kit and caboodle: manual handling equipment like sack barrows and non-slip skates, plus packaging essentials like bubble wrap and security seals. It’s a one-stop shop for moving logistics, which is a significant advantage. Instead of hunting down different suppliers for crates, dollies, and packing materials, you can theoretically get it all from Pluscrates. This simplifies the process and reduces coordination headaches, which anyone who’s ever moved an office or even a large home will tell you is a huge win.

Website Navigation and User Experience

The site’s navigation is intuitive. The main menu is clean, and important sections like “My Account,” “Basket,” and “Checkout” are easily accessible at the top. The product categories are clearly defined with descriptive icons. As you scroll down, you get more detailed information about their history, service quality, and even specific crate types. This layered information delivery helps cater to both quick browsers and those seeking in-depth details. They even have a section dedicated to their UK service centers, listing out cities covered, which builds confidence in their nationwide reach.

Pluscrates.com Features

Pluscrates.com offers a robust set of features designed to streamline the moving process, whether it’s for a household or a large commercial enterprise. Lspm.org.uk Review

Their focus is on providing a comprehensive solution rather than just a single product.

Diverse Crate Offerings

They don’t just offer one type of crate. there’s a specific crate for almost every need.

This specialization indicates a deep understanding of relocation challenges.

• LC1 Personal Lidded Moving Crate 25L: Ideal for smaller items, hot-desking environments, documents. Its compact size makes it perfect for personal effects.
• LC2 Medium Lidded Moving Crate 64L: Tagged as the “stair crate,” its narrower design is a thoughtful consideration for navigating stairwells, a common obstacle in many UK properties. This shows practical design.
• LC3 Standard Lidded Removal Crate 80L: This is their industry standard, designed for nesting and stacking, ensuring compatibility with commercial removal processes. It’s the workhorse for most office and large home moves.
• LMC Metre Long Lidded Moving Crate 130L: A specialized crate for unique items like library shelves or lateral filing systems. This feature really highlights their capability for niche and large-scale projects.
• IT3 and IT6 Computer Moving Crates 140L & 165L: Specifically designed for delicate IT equipment, these crates show an understanding of the critical need for secure transit of electronics, a major concern for office relocations.

Comprehensive Handling Equipment

Moving heavy crates isn’t just about the boxes. it’s about moving them safely and efficiently.

Pluscrates addresses this by offering essential handling equipment for hire. Gunprime.com Review

• Security Roll Cages: Lockable, sturdy metal cages, popular for high-value items like IT equipment or sensitive documents. This adds a crucial layer of security during transit.
• Heavy-Duty Sack Barrows/Trucks: Designed for ergonomic handling of multiple crates, reducing physical strain and increasing efficiency. These are indispensable for bulkier moves.
• Non-Slip Skates & Dollies: Crucial for protecting floors and easily moving loaded crates or even office furniture. The rubber tops and casters prevent slipping and damage.

Essential Packaging Supplies

A move isn’t complete without proper packaging materials to protect contents. Pluscrates integrates this into their offerings.

• Eco Bubble-Wrap: A notable feature is their commitment to environmentally friendly options, offering fully biodegradable bubble wrap. This aligns with modern eco-conscious practices.
• Screen Protectors SPR & XLSPR: Quilted protectors with Velcro straps and fiberboard inserts, specifically for computer monitors up to 32 inches. This level of specialization protects valuable office assets.
• Anti-Static Bubble Wrap Bags: Essential for sensitive electronics ESD items like computer processors, RAM, and hard drives, preventing static discharge damage.
• Furniture and Moving Crate Labels: Simple yet effective, these low-tack, color-coded labels aid in cataloging and logistics, making unpacking much easier.

Nationwide Delivery and Collection Network

Their logistical backbone is strong, boasting nationwide coverage with multiple depots across England, Scotland, and Wales.

• Next Day Delivery: Standard for orders placed before 3 pm, Monday-Friday. This is a significant advantage for urgent moves.
• Timed Deliveries: Offers flexibility for customers with tight schedules.
• Porterage Service: The ability to deliver crates directly to a specific office or floor, rather than just the loading bay, highlights their commitment to full-service convenience, particularly valuable in large commercial buildings.
• Customer Collection and Return: Customers can save on delivery/collection charges by picking up and returning crates at any of their depots, offering a cost-effective option.

Customer Service and Trade Accounts

Pluscrates emphasizes strong customer support and benefits for frequent users.

• Skilled Office Staff & Dedicated Account Managers: For larger accounts, having a dedicated contact person streamlines communication and problem-solving.
• Trade Accounts: Offers discounted rates, open-ended hire, and simplified ordering for commercial removal companies or businesses with regular moving needs. This incentivizes repeat business and provides tangible benefits.

Overall, Pluscrates.com presents itself as a highly structured, customer-centric solution for moving logistics, covering a broad spectrum of needs with specialized products and robust support systems.

Pluscrates.com Pros & Cons

Alright, let’s break down the advantages and potential drawbacks of using Pluscrates.com, based on what’s visible on their website. Dpam.ie Review

It’s like checking the engine specs before you commit to the journey.

Pros: What Works Well

• Comprehensive Service Offering: They cover almost every base for moving – from various crate sizes personal to IT-specific to handling equipment dollies, sack barrows, roll cages and essential packaging supplies. This means less sourcing from multiple vendors. It’s a true one-stop shop for relocation logistics.
• Strong Logistical Network: With national depots across the UK and next-day delivery as standard, they demonstrate a robust logistical capability. This is crucial for businesses and individuals on tight moving schedules. The mention of ULEZ compliant vehicles for London deliveries is a big plus, showing adaptability to specific urban regulations.
• Customer-Centric Features: The option for timed deliveries, porterage service delivery to specific floors, and customer collection/return at depots all point to a focus on customer convenience and flexibility. Dedicated account managers for larger clients is a professional touch that ensures tailored service.
• Transparency and Longevity: Being a well-established name over 15 years and recently acquired by The Hill Company adds a layer of credibility. They’re not a new, unproven entity. The “About Us” section provides enough background to instill confidence.
• Ethical and Practical Business: From an Islamic perspective, the services offered crate hire, moving equipment, packaging are entirely permissible. They facilitate lawful and necessary activities like moving homes or offices, promoting efficiency and protection of goods without engaging in any forbidden practices. This aligns perfectly with ethical business conduct.
• Eco-Friendly Option: The mention of “eco bubble-wrap” fully biodegradable highlights a commitment to environmental responsibility, which is increasingly important to consumers and businesses. Their “Being Green” section also emphasizes the reusability of plastic crates over cardboard, reducing waste.
• Clear Product Descriptions: Each crate and piece of equipment has a detailed description, including suggested uses and specifications. This helps customers choose the right products for their specific needs, reducing errors.
• Trade Account Benefits: Offering discounted rates, open-ended hire, and simplified ordering for trade customers e.g., removal companies is a smart business move that benefits their commercial partners.

Cons: Areas for Consideration

• Pricing Clarity for Bundles/Long-Term Hire: While individual product prices are visible, it’s not immediately clear how bundles or longer-term hires are priced without going through the checkout process or contacting them. For a quick comparison, more upfront pricing information for common scenarios would be beneficial.
• No International Service: The focus is explicitly on UK coverage. While this isn’t a “con” for their target market, businesses with international relocation needs would need to look elsewhere.
• Dependence on Physical Depots: While nationwide, the model still relies on a physical depot network. In very remote areas, delivery/collection might still incur higher costs or longer lead times, even with “nationwide” coverage.
• Limited Online Self-Service for Complex Orders: For simple personal moves, the online shop works fine. However, for larger, more complex commercial relocations or those requiring dedicated account management, the website steers users towards phone or email contact. While necessary for complex needs, some businesses might prefer a more advanced online portal for managing large orders, tracking, and invoicing.
• Lack of Public Customer Reviews/Testimonials: While they pride themselves on “outstanding service,” the homepage doesn’t prominently feature customer testimonials or external review platform links. This could help build trust and provide social proof for new customers, especially for a service-based business.
• Cookie Consent Overload: The cookie consent pop-up is quite detailed and technical, which might be overwhelming for the average user, though legally compliant. Simplification or a clearer, more concise initial prompt could improve user experience.

Overall, Pluscrates.com presents a strong case as a reliable and ethical provider of moving solutions within the UK.

The “cons” are mostly minor points related to user experience and transparency that could be improved, rather than fundamental flaws in their service offering or business model.

Pluscrates.com Alternatives

When you’re eyeing moving and storage, having options is like having extra tools in your belt—you might not need them all, but they’re darn good to have when a unique situation pops up.

Here’s a rundown of solid alternatives, all of which align with ethical practices and focus on practical, non-consumable goods and services. Cutsonwax.com Review

Traditional Moving and Storage Companies

These are the big players you think of when you need to move everything from your grand piano to your garden gnome.

They offer a spectrum of services, from full-service packing and moving to simple truck rentals.

*   Description: Perhaps the most recognizable name in DIY moving, U-Haul offers truck and trailer rentals of various sizes. They also provide a massive inventory of moving supplies like boxes, packing tape, and furniture pads. Beyond just rentals, they have self-storage units and connect you with moving labor.
*   Key Features: Extensive network of locations, diverse truck sizes from pickup trucks to 26-foot box trucks, dollies and hand trucks for rent, and flexible one-way rental options. Their online booking system is fairly user-friendly.
*   Pros: Widespread availability, often cost-effective for local moves, huge selection of moving supplies readily available.
*   Cons: Truck quality can vary by location, potential for hidden fees if not careful, customer service experiences can be inconsistent.

*   Description: Known for offering newer, well-maintained trucks, Penske is often preferred by those seeking a more reliable rental experience, especially for longer distances. They focus primarily on truck rentals for DIY movers.
*   Key Features: Strong reputation for truck maintenance, unlimited mileage on one-way rentals, 24/7 roadside assistance, and various discount programs e.g., AAA, military.
*   Pros: Reliable fleet, good for long-distance moves, excellent roadside support.
*   Cons: Fewer locations than U-Haul, typically a bit more expensive for local rentals.

*   Description: As the name suggests, Budget aims to provide a cost-effective solution for truck rentals. They offer a range of truck sizes suitable for different moving scales, from apartments to large homes.
*   Key Features: Often provides competitive pricing, especially for one-way moves, offers various discounts, and has a decent nationwide presence.
*   Pros: Generally affordable, good option for budget-conscious movers, flexible rental terms.
*   Cons: Customer service can be hit or miss, truck condition might not always be top-tier.

Portable Storage Container Services

These services bring the storage unit to you, letting you pack at your own pace before they pick it up and move it or store it for you. This model offers incredible flexibility.

*   Description: PODS Portable On Demand Storage revolutionized the moving and storage industry by delivering sturdy, weather-resistant containers directly to your home or business. You pack it, they move it or store it.
*   Key Features: Containers available in multiple sizes, flexible packing timelines, local and long-distance moving services, secure storage at their facilities or at your location.
*   Pros: Extreme convenience, no need to drive a truck, ideal for multi-stage moves or renovations, professional storage options.
*   Cons: Can be more expensive than DIY truck rental, delivery/pickup scheduling can be less flexible in some areas, requires space for the container at your property.

• CubeSmart
  • Description: While primarily a self-storage company, CubeSmart also offers portable storage solutions in select markets, similar to PODS. They focus on secure, accessible storage.
  • Key Features: Climate-controlled options in many facilities, various unit sizes, strong security measures, online management.
  • Pros: Good for long-term storage needs, clean and secure facilities, strong customer service reputation.
  • Cons: Portable container availability is not as widespread as their traditional storage units.

Essential Moving Supplies and Equipment Providers

Sometimes, you just need the right gear to get the job done, and these companies focus on providing the tools and materials without the full moving service.

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• The Home Depot

  • Description: Beyond their role as a home improvement giant, Home Depot is a go-to for moving boxes, packing supplies, and even truck rentals for smaller, local jobs.
  • Key Features: Wide selection of boxes and packing materials, hourly truck rentals flatbed trucks, cargo vans, convenient store locations for quick pickups.
  • Pros: Readily accessible, affordable for small local moves, high availability of supplies.
  • Cons: Limited vehicle options for larger moves, truck rental primarily for local use, not ideal for full-service moving needs.

• Walmart

  • Description: A retail behemoth, Walmart offers a surprising array of moving boxes and basic packing supplies at competitive prices, making it a convenient stop for essentials.
  • Key Features: Affordable pricing on boxes, bubble wrap, and tape. widespread store locations.
  • Pros: Very accessible, budget-friendly for basic supplies.
  • Cons: Limited range of specialized moving equipment, not a dedicated moving service provider.

Each of these alternatives brings something unique to the table, allowing you to choose the best fit for your specific moving and storage requirements.

They all operate within the bounds of ethical business practices, focusing on providing practical, non-consumable solutions that facilitate lawful and necessary activities.

How to Cancel Pluscrates.com Subscription

If you’ve engaged with Pluscrates.com for an ongoing service or have a trade account, understanding the cancellation process is crucial. Wewantyourmotorbike.com Review

While the website doesn’t explicitly outline a “subscription” model in the traditional sense like a monthly digital service, it implies ongoing relationships for trade accounts or potentially extended hire periods.

Understanding the Service Model

Pluscrates primarily operates on a hire/rental model. This means you’re renting crates, equipment, or perhaps engaging in a long-term hire agreement. For individual “shop” orders, the service concludes once the crates are returned and accounted for. For trade accounts, which might involve continuous or open-ended hire agreements, the cancellation or termination would likely involve a formal process to close the account and ensure all rented items are returned.

Steps for Cancelling/Terminating Service

Based on the information provided on their homepage, the most direct and effective methods for managing or terminating your service would be:

1. Contact Your Dedicated Account Manager for Trade Accounts:

   • If you’re a larger client with a trade account, Pluscrates explicitly states, “For larger accounts, you will have a dedicated account manager assigned.” This individual is your primary point of contact for all service-related queries, including ending an ongoing hire or closing your trade account.
   • Action: Reach out to your assigned account manager via phone or email. This will likely be the most efficient route as they will have direct access to your account details and can guide you through the specific termination process.

2. Contact Customer Service Directly for all other customers: Earners-trade.com Review

   • For smaller, one-off hires or if you don’t have a dedicated account manager, the general customer service channels are your best bet.
   • Phone: The website prominently displays their phone number: 0208 900 0321. This is generally the quickest way to get a direct answer and initiate any cancellation procedures.
   • Email: You can also contact them via email at [email protected]. When emailing, be sure to include all relevant details such as your order number, account name, and the specific service you wish to terminate or cancel.
   • Online Account Management: While the “My Account” section on the website allows for logging in, viewing orders, and editing addresses, it typically doesn’t provide a direct “cancel service” or “close account” button for active hire agreements. It’s more for managing personal details and past orders. However, checking your account history might provide relevant order numbers needed for communication.

Important Considerations for Termination

• Return of Equipment: The primary aspect of “cancellation” in a rental business is the return of the rented items. Ensure all crates, handling equipment, and any other rented items are returned in good condition as per your agreement.
• Final Billing: Clarify any outstanding charges or final billing details. This might include charges for late returns, damaged items, or the remaining period of a minimum hire agreement.
• Notice Period: Depending on your contract especially for trade accounts or long-term hires, there might be a notice period required for termination. Discuss this with your account manager or customer service representative to avoid unexpected charges.
• Confirmation: Always request a written confirmation of your service termination or account closure for your records. This can be an email confirmation from your account manager or a customer service representative.

In summary, the process of “cancelling a subscription” with Pluscrates.com is more akin to terminating a rental agreement or closing a trade account.

Direct communication via phone or email, especially with a dedicated account manager if applicable, is the most effective approach.

Pluscrates.com Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure at Pluscrates.com requires a bit of digging, as they cater to both individual users needing a few crates for a house move and large commercial entities with ongoing, bulk requirements.

They hint at flexibility and competitive rates, which is what you’d expect from a company emphasizing “Affordably Priced. Outstanding Service.”

General Pricing Approach

Pluscrates outlines a system where individual product prices are available through their online store. This is the most straightforward way for small personal moves to get direct pricing. You can add items to your basket, and presumably, the total cost, including any associated delivery and collection fees, would be calculated before final checkout. Doddlecover.com Review

They also emphasize “Competitive Hire Rates” and “low prices,” suggesting that they aim to be market-competitive within the UK crate hire industry. This is a crucial point for potential customers comparing options.

Factors Influencing Price

Several key factors will determine your overall cost when hiring from Pluscrates:

1. Type and Size of Crates: Different crates LC1, LC2, LC3, LMC, IT3, IT6 will have varying hire rates. Specialized crates like the IT computer crates might command a slightly higher premium due to their design for sensitive equipment.
2. Quantity of Items: The more crates or equipment you hire, the higher the total initial cost. However, this is where potential discounts might come into play, especially for bulk orders.
3. Duration of Hire: Crate hire is typically charged on a per-week or per-day basis. The longer you need the items, the higher the total hire cost. Pluscrates mentions “Open-Ended Hire” for trade customers, implying flexible billing for extended periods.
4. Additional Equipment: Hiring manual handling equipment sack barrows, roll cages, non-slip skates will add to the overall cost.
5. Packaging Supplies: Purchases of bubble wrap, screen protectors, labels, and other packaging materials are separate costs, not part of the hire fee.
6. Delivery and Collection Charges: This is a significant factor. While they offer next-day nationwide delivery, the cost associated with delivery to and collection from your specific location will be added. They also mention that customers can collect and return items at their depots to avoid these charges, which is a great cost-saving option for those willing and able to transport the items themselves.
7. Porterage Service: If you require crates to be delivered to a specific floor or office within a building not just the loading bay, this “porterage service” will likely incur an additional charge.

Trade Account Benefits

A significant aspect of Pluscrates’ pricing strategy revolves around their Trade Accounts. For commercial removal companies or businesses with regular, large-scale moving needs, a trade account offers:

• Trade Discounted Rates: Explicitly mentioned as a way to “save money.” These rates are likely lower than the standard online retail prices.
• Open-Ended Hire: This provides more flexibility for long-term projects without rigid weekly re-booking.
• Simplified Ordering: Streamlined processes for frequent orders.

This tiered pricing approach allows Pluscrates to serve a broad market, from individual homeowners to large corporations, with tailored rate structures.

How to Get a Quote

• Online Shop: For small, personal moves, adding items to the basket on their “Hire Crates” section should provide an instant quote, including delivery costs based on your postcode.
• Direct Contact: For larger, more complex requirements, trade accounts, or specific inquiries about long-term hire and porterage services, Pluscrates encourages direct contact via phone 0208 900 0321 or email [email protected]. This allows them to provide a customized quote based on your specific needs and potential volume discounts.

In essence, while precise numerical figures for every scenario aren’t plastered on the homepage, Pluscrates.com communicates a transparent, flexible pricing model that scales with customer needs, offering better rates for committed trade partners. Storececotec.com Review

Pluscrates.com vs. Competitors

When evaluating Pluscrates.com, it’s helpful to put it in context with other players in the moving and storage industry.

While Pluscrates focuses specifically on crate hire within the UK, its services often overlap with broader moving solutions.

This comparison will highlight where Pluscrates stands strong and where other types of competitors might offer different advantages.

Pluscrates.com: The UK Crate Hire Specialist

Pluscrates positions itself as a specialized provider of reusable plastic moving crates and associated handling equipment across the UK. Their core strength lies in this niche.

• Specialization: They are experts in plastic crate rental, offering a range of sizes for various needs personal, standard, IT, library. This focus allows them to optimize their logistics and inventory for crate hire.
• Reusable & Eco-Friendly: Emphasizing “Returnable Transit Packaging” RTP and eco-friendly bubble wrap, they appeal to environmentally conscious customers looking to reduce waste compared to cardboard boxes.
• UK Nationwide Coverage: Their strong depot network ensures consistent service across England, Scotland, and Wales, including specific expertise in busy areas like London ULEZ compliant fleet.
• Trade Focus: A clear emphasis on trade accounts with discounted rates and open-ended hire suggests they are well-suited for commercial removal companies and businesses with frequent relocation needs.
• Integrated Solutions: Beyond just crates, they offer critical handling equipment dollies, sack barrows, roll cages and essential packaging, making them a more complete solution for the “packing” phase of a move.

Competitors: Broader Moving Solutions

Other companies might offer different models, often with a broader scope than just crate hire. Schramas.com Review

1. Traditional Removal Companies e.g., Pickfords, Brittania Movers International – UK-based

• Pluscrates vs. Removal Companies:
  • Scope: Removal companies offer full-service moving, including packing, loading, transportation, and unpacking. Pluscrates only provides the containers and handling equipment for the customer or the removal company to use.
  • Convenience: Removal companies offer maximum convenience, handling almost everything. Pluscrates requires the user to do the packing and moving of items into and out of the crates.
  • Cost: Full-service removal companies are significantly more expensive. Pluscrates offers a cost-effective solution for packing materials and equipment.
  • Best For: Removal companies are for those who want a hands-off experience. Pluscrates is for those doing a DIY move or for removal companies themselves who need reliable crate supply.

2. Self-Storage Companies e.g., Big Yellow Storage, Safestore – UK-based

• Pluscrates vs. Self-Storage:
  • Core Service: Self-storage companies provide rented storage units. Pluscrates provides temporary containers for moving.
  • Ancillary Services: Many self-storage facilities sell moving boxes and basic packing supplies, but typically don’t hire out specialized crates or handling equipment like Pluscrates.
  • Integration: Pluscrates integrates with the active moving process, facilitating the transport of goods. Self-storage facilities are for storing goods, often during a transition.
  • Best For: Self-storage is for long-term or temporary storage needs. Pluscrates is for the actual packing and transport phase of a move.

3. General Retailers Selling Moving Supplies e.g., Home Depot, Amazon, Walmart – if operating in UK

• Pluscrates vs. General Retailers:
  • Product Type: Retailers primarily sell cardboard boxes, basic bubble wrap, and tape. Pluscrates specializes in reusable plastic crates and industrial-grade handling equipment for hire.
  • Cost Efficiency Long-term: For multiple moves or commercial use, hiring plastic crates from Pluscrates can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than repeatedly buying and disposing of cardboard boxes.
  • Durability & Protection: Plastic crates offer superior protection and stacking capability compared to cardboard boxes.
  • Best For: Retailers are suitable for small, infrequent moves or basic packing needs. Pluscrates is for those who need durable, stackable, reusable containers and specialized handling equipment for larger or more frequent moves.

4. Portable Storage Container Companies e.g., PODS – if operating in UK for containers, although their main operations are in US

• Pluscrates vs. Portable Storage Containers:
  • Logistics: Portable container services deliver a large container for you to load, then move or store the entire container. Pluscrates delivers smaller, individual crates for you to load onto a truck or move internally.
  • Scale: Portable containers are ideal for very large moves or when you need temporary on-site storage. Pluscrates is more about the internal packing and transport of items within a move.
  • Hands-on: Both require the customer to do the packing, but the scale of handling is different.
  • Best For: Portable containers are for significant household moves or long-term renovations requiring on-site storage. Pluscrates is for organizing and protecting items within a move, especially for offices or large homes.

Conclusion: Pluscrates.com carved out a clear niche as the go-to provider for reusable plastic crate hire and associated moving equipment in the UK. While it doesn’t offer full-service moving or long-term storage, its specialized focus on durable containers, comprehensive handling gear, and efficient logistics makes it a strong contender for anyone undertaking a self-managed move, or for commercial entities requiring a reliable supply of professional-grade packing solutions. Its ethical standing is sound, as it facilitates beneficial and permissible activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pluscrates.com?

Pluscrates.com is a UK-based company that specializes in hiring out reusable plastic moving crates, manual handling equipment, and packaging supplies for home, office, and retail relocations.

Is Pluscrates.com a legitimate company?

Yes, based on checking the website, Pluscrates.com appears to be a legitimate and established company, stating over 15 years in the UK crate hire market and now operating under The Hill Company since 2023.

What services does Pluscrates.com offer?

Pluscrates.com offers crate hire various sizes including personal, standard, IT, and metre-long crates, manual handling equipment hire sack barrows, roll cages, non-slip skates, and packaging supplies bubble wrap, screen protectors, labels. Dtec.uk Review

Does Pluscrates.com offer nationwide delivery in the UK?

Yes, Pluscrates.com provides nationwide delivery across England, Scotland, and Wales, with next-day delivery available for orders placed before 3 pm, Monday-Friday.

Can I collect crates directly from a Pluscrates.com depot?

Yes, you can select “collection from service centre” during checkout and pick up your rental crates and accessories from any of their national depots across the UK.

Are Pluscrates.com’s crates environmentally friendly?

Yes, Pluscrates.com promotes the use of reusable plastic crates as a more environmentally friendly alternative to single-use cardboard boxes, reducing waste. They also offer biodegradable eco bubble-wrap.

What types of crates are available for hire?

Pluscrates.com offers a range of crates including the LC1 personal, LC2 medium/stair crate, LC3 standard office/removal crate, LMC metre-long for filing/libraries, IT3 for individual flat-screen PCs, and IT6 for large monitors/servers.

Does Pluscrates.com cater to large commercial moves?

Yes, Pluscrates.com caters to large commercial moves, offering dedicated account managers for larger accounts and specific crates designed for IT equipment, libraries, and standard office relocations. Oakfurnitureuk.com Review

What is a “Trade Account” with Pluscrates.com?

A Trade Account is for commercial removal companies or businesses with frequent moving needs, offering discounted rates, open-ended hire, and simplified ordering processes.

How do I get a quote from Pluscrates.com?

For small personal moves, you can get a quote through their online shop by adding items to your basket.

For larger or trade requirements, you can contact them directly via phone or email for a customized quote.

Does Pluscrates.com offer timed deliveries?

Yes, Pluscrates.com offers timed deliveries, providing flexibility for customers with specific scheduling requirements.

Can Pluscrates.com deliver crates directly to an office floor?

Yes, Pluscrates.com offers a porterage service that can deliver crates to a specific office or floor within a building, not just to the loading bay. Noda.live Review

What kind of manual handling equipment can I hire?

You can hire security roll cages, heavy-duty sack barrows/trucks, and non-slip skates/dollies to assist with moving crates and other items.

What are the opening hours for Pluscrates.com depots?

Pluscrates.com depots are open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. They are closed on weekends.

Are the IT computer crates secure for sensitive equipment?

Yes, the IT computer crates IT3 and IT6 are specifically designed for the safe transit of individual PC systems, with features that secure the equipment during movement.

The security roll cages also offer lockable options for sensitive items.

How do I contact Pluscrates.com customer service?

You can contact Pluscrates.com by phone at 0208 900 0321 or by email at [email protected]. Markethouse.io Review

What is the advantage of using plastic crates over cardboard boxes?

Plastic crates offer superior durability, better protection for contents, are stackable when full, nestable when empty saving space, and are reusable, which is more environmentally friendly and often more cost-effective for larger or frequent moves.

Does Pluscrates.com provide packing materials like bubble wrap?

Yes, Pluscrates.com offers various packing supplies for sale, including eco bubble-wrap, screen protectors, anti-static bubble wrap bags, and furniture/crate labels.

What is the process for returning hired crates to Pluscrates.com?

The return process typically involves scheduling a collection by Pluscrates.com, or you can opt to return the crates yourself to one of their designated depots.

Details should be confirmed at the time of hire or with customer service.

Is Pluscrates.com ULEZ compliant for deliveries in London?

Yes, Pluscrates.com states that their fleet of vehicles operating from their London service centre in Essex are all ULEZ Ultra Low Emission Zone compliant, ensuring smooth deliveries within London. Bxventures.live Review