repallet.org

Bulk merchandise container

A statutory term for crates, pallets and shells used to move goods, covered by anti-theft purchase rules.

Last reviewed October 27, 2026 by repallet.org editors.

Several states regulate the purchase of 'bulk merchandise containers' by recyclers and scrap dealers, to stop stolen crates and pallets being sold for scrap. Most of these laws cover plastic containers; Arizona's also covers wood.

Arizona defines a bulk merchandise container as a plastic or wooden carrier or holder used by a manufacturer or distributor to transport merchandise to wholesale and retail outlets, and requires records before a business buys five or more marked plastic or ten or more wood containers at once. Illinois, Kansas and Michigan have Plastic Bulk Merchandise Container laws with ID, record and payment rules.

These laws bind buyers. A business discarding its own whitewood pallets isn't the target, but a recycler collecting from it may ask for documentation. See marked pallet laws.

Sources

  1. A.R.S. § 44-1799.81 (plastic or wood bulk merchandise containers) Arizona Legislature. Accessed October 27, 2026.
  2. 815 ILCS 393 (Plastic Bulk Merchandise Container Act) Illinois General Assembly. Accessed October 27, 2026.
  3. K.S.A. 65-3428 (plastic bulk merchandise container sales) Kansas Legislature. Accessed October 27, 2026.
  4. MCL 445.2073 (Plastic Bulk Merchandise Container Act: definitions) Michigan Legislature. Accessed October 27, 2026.

Related