ASTM D6255/D6255M-18

Standard Specification for Steel or Aluminum Slotted Angle Crates

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the material and fabrication of new reusable, slotted angle metal crates intended for use as containers for domestic and overseas shipment of lightweight airframe components and lightweight bulky items for domestic or overseas air and surface shipments. This specification includes metal crates in a variety of types, classes, and styles reflecting varied performance, but does not address their performance under al atmosphere, handling, shipping, and storage conditions. Type I are open crates, while Type II are fully-enclosed or sheathed with solid material. On the other hand, Class 1 are used for outside or indeterminate storage, while Class 2 are for inside or protected storage. And finally, Style A are furnished without skids or rubbing strips, while Style B are furnished with skid blocks or skids with rubbing strips and provisions for forklift truck handling. Details regarding the manufacture and construction requirements are itemized thoroughly.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the material and fabrication of new reusable metal (slotted angle) crates intended for use as containers for domestic and overseas shipment of lightweight airframe components and lightweight bulky items, not exceeding 3000 lb [1361 kg] for domestic or overseas air and surface shipments.  
1.2 Slotted angle crate performance is dependent on its fabricated components; therefore, a variety of types, classes, and styles reflecting varied performance are specified. This specification, however, does not cover slotted angle crate performance under all atmosphere, handling, shipping, and storage conditions.  
1.3 If the use of other construction methods or techniques are acceptable and permitted (see 5.1.12), the resulting packaging systems shall be of equal or better performance than would result from the use of these specified materials and procedures. The appropriate distribution cycle specified in Practice D4169 can be used to develop comparative procedures and criteria.  
1.4 The values stated in either inch-pound or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. See IEEE/ASTM SI 10 for conversion of units.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 28-Feb-2018
• ICS: 55.160 - Cases. Boxes. Crates
• Technical Committee: D10 - Packaging
• Drafting Committee: D10.12 - Shipping Containers, Crates, Pallets, Skids and Related Structures

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D6255/D6255M-05(2011) - Standard Specification for Steel or Aluminum Slotted Angle Crates
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM D6253-24 - Standard Practice for Treatment and/or Marking of Wood Packaging Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-24 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM D4169-23e1 - Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4169-23 - Standard Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D3951-18(2023) - Standard Practice for Commercial Packaging
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Refers: ASTM D1990-19 - Standard Practice for Establishing Allowable Properties for Visually-Graded Dimension Lumber from In-Grade Tests of Full-Size Specimens
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-16(2018) - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM D6199-18a - Standard Practice for Quality of Wood Members of Containers and Pallets
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM F1667-18 - Standard Specification for Driven Fasteners: Nails, Spikes, and Staples
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2018
• Refers: ASTM D6199-18 - Standard Practice for Quality of Wood Members of Containers and Pallets
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM F1667-17 - Standard Specification for Driven Fasteners: Nails, Spikes, and Staples
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2017
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-16 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2016
• Refers: ASTM D1990-16 - Standard Practice for Establishing Allowable Properties for Visually-Graded Dimension Lumber from In-Grade Tests of Full-Size Specimens
• Effective Date: 01-May-2016
• Refers: ASTM D6253-16 - Standard Practice for Treatment and/or Marking of Wood Packaging Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2016

Overview

ASTM D6255/D6255M-18 is the Standard Specification for Steel or Aluminum Slotted Angle Crates developed by ASTM International. This specification covers the material selection, fabrication, and construction requirements for new, reusable, slotted angle metal crates used as shipping containers. These crates are primarily designed for domestic and international shipment of lightweight airframe components and other bulky, lightweight items, supporting loads up to 3,000 lb [1,361 kg] for both air and surface transport. The standard provides a broad range of crate types, classes, and styles to meet various performance needs, but does not cover every type of atmospheric, handling, shipping, or storage condition that might be encountered.

Key Topics

• Types, Classes, and Styles:

  • Type I (Open) & Type II (Fully Enclosed/Sheathed): Offers flexibility based on shipping product sensitivity.
  • Class 1 (Outdoor/Indeterminate Storage) & Class 2 (Indoor/Protected Storage): Differentiates between exposure to elements and protected environments.
  • Style A (No Skids) & Style B (With Skids/Blocks for Forklift Handling): Addresses the need for handling and mobility capabilities.

• Material Requirements:

  • Steel or Aluminum Slotted Angles: Conformance to specified surface finishes and supplemental requirements.
  • Nuts, Bolts, and Fasteners: Use of zinc-plated or coated hardware designed for durability and ease of assembly.
  • Sheathing, Plywood, and Wood Members: Conformance to referenced standards for strength, treatment, and environmental compliance.

• Construction Guidelines:

  • Clear requirements for assembly, bracing, splicing, and joining with diagrams and detailed instructions.
  • Special considerations for ventilation, load-bearing members, and securing methods.
  • Provision to use alternative construction methods if equal or superior performance can be demonstrated.

• Ordering Information:

  • Specifies details such as crate type, class, style, internal dimensions, material options, special features, marking panel size, and assembly preferences that purchasers must provide.

• Safety and Compliance:

  • Encourages the implementation of appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices.
  • Mandates compliance with international and U.S. regulations for wood packaging (ISPM 15).

Applications

Steel or aluminum slotted angle crates fabricated in accordance with ASTM D6255/D6255M-18 are widely used in:

• Aerospace Industry: Shipping lightweight airframe components requiring robust, reusable containers.
• Logistics and Supply Chain: Transporting lightweight, bulky cargo in both domestic and overseas supply chains.
• Military and Defense: Packaging and shipping components destined for diverse global environments with options for protected storage and compliance with Department of Defense requirements.
• Industrial Export: Ensuring goods are shipped securely while meeting international freight and phytosanitary regulations.
• Reusable Packaging Systems: Providing sustainable, cost-effective alternatives to single-use wooden crates.

Related Standards

Several referenced and related standards support the application of ASTM D6255/D6255M-18, including:

• ASTM D4169 – Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
• ASTM D6199 – Practice for Quality of Wood Members of Containers and Pallets
• ASTM D3951 – Practice for Commercial Packaging
• ASTM D4727/D4727M – Specification for Corrugated and Solid Fiberboard Sheets
• ASTM D6253 – Practice for Treatment/Marking of Wood Packaging Materials
• ISPM 15 – Regulation of Wood Packaging Material in International Trade (International Standard)
• ASME B18 Series – Standards for bolts, nuts, and fasteners

By adhering to ASTM D6255/D6255M-18, manufacturers, suppliers, and shippers can ensure that slotted angle crates are safe, durable, performance-driven, and compliant with both domestic and international shipping requirements, making them an excellent choice for robust and reusable packaging solutions.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:D6255/D6255M −18
Standard Specification for
Steel or Aluminum Slotted Angle Crates
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6255/D6255M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.1 This specification covers the material and fabrication of
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
new reusable metal (slotted angle) crates intended for use as
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
containers for domestic and overseas shipment of lightweight
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
airframe components and lightweight bulky items, not exceed-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ing 3000 lb [1361 kg] for domestic or overseas air and surface
shipments.
2. Referenced Documents
1.2 Slotted angle crate performance is dependent on its 2
2.1 ASTM Standards:
fabricated components; therefore, a variety of types, classes,
A109/A109M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25
and styles reflecting varied performance are specified. This
Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
specification, however, does not cover slotted angle crate
A123/A123M Specification for Zinc (Hot-Dip Galvanized)
performance under all atmosphere, handling, shipping, and
Coatings on Iron and Steel Products
storage conditions.
A924/A924M Specification for General Requirements for
1.3 If the use of other construction methods or techniques Steel Sheet, Metallic-Coated by the Hot-Dip Process
are acceptable and permitted (see 5.1.12), the resulting pack- B209 Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy
aging systems shall be of equal or better performance than Sheet and Plate
would result from the use of these specified materials and B633 Specification for Electrodeposited Coatings of Zinc on
procedures. The appropriate distribution cycle specified in Iron and Steel
PracticeD4169canbeusedtodevelopcomparativeprocedures D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environ-
and criteria. ments
D1990 Practice for Establishing Allowable Properties for
1.4 The values stated in either inch-pound or SI units are to
Visually-Graded Dimension Lumber from In-Grade Tests
be regarded separately as standard.Within the text, the SI units
of Full-Size Specimens
are shown in brackets.The values stated in each system are not
D3951 Practice for Commercial Packaging
exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used inde-
D3953 Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals
pendentlyoftheother.Combiningvaluesfromthetwosystems
D4169 Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Con-
may result in nonconformance with the standard. See IEEE/
tainers and Systems
ASTM SI 10 for conversion of units.
D4727/D4727M Specification for Corrugated and Solid Fi-
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
berboard Sheet Stock (Container Grade) and Cut Shapes
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
D6199 Practice for Quality ofWood Members of Containers
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
and Pallets
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
D6253 Practice for Treatment and/or Marking of Wood
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Packaging Materials
F1667 Specification for Driven Fasteners: Nails, Spikes, and
Staples
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on
Packaging and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.12 on Shipping
Containers, Crates, Pallets, Skids and Related Structures. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved March 1, 2018. Published April 2018. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1998. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as D6255/D6255M – 05 Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
(2011). DOI: 10.1520/D6255_D6255M-18. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D6255/D6255M−18
IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International 4.3.2 Style B—With skid blocks or skids with rubbing strips
System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System and provisions for forklift truck handling.
2.2 Federal Specifications:
5. Ordering Information
TT-W-572 Wood Preservative: Water-Repellent
5.1 Purchasers should select the preferred permitted options
2.3 APA – The Engineered Wood Association:
and include the following information in procurement docu-
APA PS 1 Structural Plywood (with Typical APA Trade-
4 ments:
marks)
5.1.1 Specification title, number, and date.
2.4 American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
5.1.2 Crate type, class, and style (see Section 4).
Standards:
5.1.3 Box inside dimensions specified in order of length by
B18.2.1 Square and Hex Bolts and Screws (Inch Series)
width by depth.
B18.2.2 Square and Hex Nuts (Inch Series)
5.1.4 Whether sanded plywood is required (see 6.1.5).
B18.2.3.5M Metric Hex Bolts
5.1.5 Type sheathing required (see 7.6.1).
B18.2.4.1M Metric Hex Nuts, Style 1
5.1.6 Whether full-length skids are required (see 7.7.3.2).
B18.2.6M Metric Fasteners for Use in Structural Applica-
5.1.7 Special features (see 7.9).
tions
5.1.8 Marking panel size (see 7.10.1).
B18.5 Round Head Bolts (Inch Series)
5.1.9 Whether crates are to be shipped assembled or disas-
2.5 Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association:
sembled (see 8.1).
HPVA HP-1-1994 Hardwood and Decorative Plywood
5.1.10 Bolt and nut quantities required (see 6.1.2).
2.6 National Motor Freight Traffıc Association:
5.1.11 If self-locking nuts are required (see 6.1.2).
National Motor Freight Classification
5.1.12 Whether other construction methods or techniques
2.7 Uniform Classification Committee Standard:
are acceptable and permitted (see 1.3).
Uniform Freight Classification
5.1.12.1 Whether proof that other construction methods or
techniques are acceptable (see 1.3) is required.
2.8 American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Standard:
5.1.13 Non-manufactured wood packaging materials
Cold-Formed Steel Design Manual
(WPM) used for export from or import to the United States
2.9 IPPC Standard:
shall comply with Practice D6253 and the requirements of
ISPM 15 Regulation of Wood Packaging Material in Inter-
ISPM 15.
national Trade
5.1.13.1 These requirements are recommended for allWPM
entering the DoD supply system. Any additional requirements
3. Terminology
shall be specified in the contract or purchase order.
3.1 Definitions— General definitions for packaging and
distribution environments are found in Terminology D996.
6. Materials and Manufacture
6.1 Materials—It is encouraged that recycled material be
4. Classification
used when practical. All recovered, recycled, or virgin mate-
4.1 Type:
rials used in crate manufacture shall meet the requirements of
4.1.1 Type I—Open.
this specification and referenced documents. In addition, ma-
4.1.2 Type II—Fully-enclosed or sheathed with solid mate-
terials shall not affect or be affected by the product being
rial.
packed.
6.1.1 Slotted Metal Angle—Slotted metal angle shall con-
4.2 Class:
form to the Supplemental Requirements of this specification.
4.2.1 Class 1—Outside or indeterminate storage.
6.1.1.1 Slotted Angle Surface Finish—Steel for Class 1
4.2.2 Class 2—Inside or protected storage.
crates shall have a Class 3 surface finish (S4.7.1.3) applied.
4.3 Style:
Steel for Class 2 crates shall have a Class 1 or 2 surface finish
4.3.1 Style A—Without skids or rubbing strips.
(S4.7.1.1 or S4.7.1.2) applied. Aluminum slotted angle shall
require no additional finish.
6.1.2 Nuts and Bolts— Nuts and bolts used to assemble the
Available from the Federal Supply Service Bureau, Specification Section, Suite
8100, 480 L’Enfant Plaza, SW, Washington, DC 20408. slotted angle shall be of hardened steel and zinc plated after
Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100
machining. All other bolts and nuts shall be zinc-coated and
Bureau Dr., Stop 3460, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-3460.
conform to ASME B18.5 or B18.2.1 (B18.2.3.5M), for bolts;
Available from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 345 East 47th
and, B18.2.2 (B18.2.4.1M), for nuts.
St., New York, NY 10017; American National Standard (ANSI) adopted.
6 5
Available from Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association, P.O. Box 2789,
6.1.2.1 The slotted angle bolts shall be minimum ⁄16-in.
Reston, VA 22090–0789; American National Standards Institute (ANSI) adopted.
[8-mm] shank diameter, ⁄8-in. [16-mm] length for Types I, II,
Available from National Motor Freight TrafficAssociation,American Trucking
3 9
and IV, and ⁄4-in. for Type III and ⁄16-in. [14-mm] hexagon
Associations, 2200 Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314.
head. Bolts shall have an unthreaded load bearing shoulder to
Available from the Uniform Classification Committee, Tariff Publishing
Officer, 151 Ellis St., N.E., Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30335.
prevent shearing action on the threads. Bolts shall conform to
Available from the American Iron and Steel Institute, ATTN: Publication
ASME B18.2.1 (B18.2.3.5M).
Orders, P.O. Box 4327, Chestertown, MD 21690.
6.1.2.2 The slotted angle nuts shall be prevailing torque,
International Plant Protection Convention Secretariat (IPPC), Viale delle
Terme di Caracalla 00153 Rome, Italy, https://www.ippc.int/en/. hexagon, self-locking, to prevent loosening after extended
D6255/D6255M−18
A
TABLE 1 Slotted Angle Steel Beam Load Capacity
storage/handling and vibration during shipment. The ⁄16-in.
Slotted Angle Steel
[8-mm] nuts shall be 0.551 to 0.564-in. [13.99 to 14.33-mm]
12-Gage, 0.105-in. [2.7-mm]
acrosstheflats(width).Othersizenutsshallbe ⁄16in.[14mm]
1 ⁄2 by 3-in.
across the hexagon flats. Nuts shall conform toASME B18.2.2 [38 by 76-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
(B18.2.6M).
6.1.3 Strapping—Steel strapping used for banding or ten-
[600] [900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
sion braces shall conform to Practice D3953, Type I, zinc-
Recommended Load 1450 980 740 500 350
coated.
lb [kg] [658] [445] [336] [227] [159]
6.1.4 Wood Members—Wood used for skids, rubbing strips,
Recommended Load 4500 3100 2100 1200 1000
load-bearing members, blocking and bracing, and all other
lb [kg] [2041] [1406] [953] [544] [454]
wooden components shall conform to the applicable Practice
D6199, Group II, III or IV woods structural class and shall
Recommended Load 10400 7500 5300 4350 3500
conform to commercial standards in accordance with Practice lb [kg] [4717] [3402] [2404] [1973] [1588]
D1990.
Recommended Load 1550 1000 760 580 490
6.1.5 Plywood—PlywoodforClass1cratesshallconformto
lb [kg] [703] [454] [345] [263] [222]
ANSI/HPVA HP-1-1994, Type I, Grade 3-4; NIST APA PS 1,
Slotted Angle Steel
Interior with Exterior Glue; or, NIST APA PS 1, Exterior,
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm]
Grade C-C. Plywood for Class 2 crates shall conform to
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4-in.
ANSI/HPVAHP-1-1994,Type II, Grade 3-4; or, NISTAPAPS
[38 by 57-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
1, Interior, Grade C-D. Plywood shall have no defects (knot
holes, worm holes, etc.) extending through the panel. Unless
[600] [900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
otherwise specified, plywood shall be finished unsanded (see
Recommended Load 1260 850 610 400 200
5.1.4).
lb [kg] [572] [386] [277] [181] [91]
6.1.6 Wood Preservative—Wood or plywood components
Recommended Load 2400 1700 1150 820 625
shall be treated in accordance withTT-W-572, or a commercial
lb [kg] [1089] [771] [522] [372] [284]
equivalent.
6.1.7 Fiberboard—Fiberboard used for sheathing shall con-
Recommended Load 5190 3350 2700 2100 1700
form to Specification D4727/D4727M, Type SF,
lb [kg] [2354] [1520] [1225] [953] [771]
Class–Weather-Resistant, Grades V2s, V3s, or V4s.
Recommended Load 800 510 390 300 250
6.1.8 Sheet Steel— Steel used for marking panels shall
lb [kg] [363] [231] [177] [136] [113]
conform to Specification A109/A109M.
6.1.9 Nails—Nails used to secure top sheathing shall be Slotted Angle Steel
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm]
cement-coated or chemically-etched common or box nails
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 1 ⁄2-in.
conforming to Specification F1667.
[38 by 38-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
7. Construction
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
7.1 Slotted Angle Member Selection—Slotted angle selec-
Recommended Load 495 270 190 145
lb [kg] [225] [123] [86] [66]
tion shall be based on crate size and load weight. Tables 1-3
shall be used as a guide for slotted angle selection.
Recommended Load 590 395 295 190
7.2 Member Splicing—Steel or aluminum components shall lb [kg] [268] [179] [134] [86]
be continuous lengths. When splicing is necessary, four bolts
Recommended Load 1335 1035 690 540
(minimum) shall be used to secure a lap splice and eight bolts
lb [kg] [606] [470] [313] [245]
(minimum) shall be used to secure a butt splice, as shown in
A
Fig. 1. Table 1 is usable for slotted angle steel with flange dimensions that are ± ⁄8 in.
[±3 mm] the flange sizes stated.
7.3 Cutting Slotted Angle:
7.3.1 All Members— Members shall be cut at 3-in. [76-mm]
increments to utilize the slot and hole pattern properly. After
cutting, members shall be trimmed to the required length.
7.4.1 Assembly—Slotted metal angle shall be assembled
7.3.2 Diagonal Members— When cutting of diagonals is
with bolts of the same diameter for which the slotted metal
required, the wide flange of the angle can be cut on a miter to
angle was intended or designed. Bolts and nuts shall be drawn
provide maximum contact area and positive bolting locations.
tight to secure against loosening. Bolts and nuts shall be as
7.4 Construction— One slotted metal angle crate shall have specified in 6.1.2.
six faces (two sides, two ends, one top, and one base). Each 7.4.2 Braces—All panels shall have either diagonal braces
face shall be rectangular in shape and consist of one or more or steel strapping braces for support.
panels. A panel is an area bounded by slotted metal angle 7.4.2.1 Diagonal Braces— Diagonal brace placement is
members. Normally, the sides are constructed and the ends, shown in Fig. 2. All diagonal braces shall be installed to
top, and base are used to hold the sides together. maximize utilization of the round holes in the metal angle.
D6255/D6255M−18
A A
TABLE 2 Slotted Angle Steel Column Load Capacity TABLE 3 Slotted Angle Aluminum Configurations Load Capacity
Slotted Angle Steel Slotted Angle Aluminum
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm] 13-Gage, 0.089-in. [2.3-mm]
1 1 1 1
1 ⁄2 by 1 ⁄2-in. 1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4-in.
[38 by 38-mm] [38 by 57-mm]
Column Length ft [mm] Beam Length ft [mm]
3456 34 5 6
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800] [900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
Recommended Load 450 350 260 180
Recommended Load 1480 1180 940 740
lb [kg] [672] [535] [426] [336] lb [kg] [204] [159] [118] [82]
B B
Recommended Load 3830 3475 2970 2475 Recommended Load 950 600
400 350
lb [kg] [431] [272] [181] [159]
lb [kg] [1737] [1576] [1347] [1123]
Recommended Load 2200 1600 1240 940
Recommended Load 3900 3565 3170 2620
lb [kg] [998] [726] [563] [426]
lb [kg] [1769] [1617] [1438] [1188]
Slotted Angle Aluminum
Slotted Angle Steel
13-Gage, 0.089-in. [2.3-mm]
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm]
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4-in.
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4 in.
[38 by 57-mm]
[38 by 57-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
Column Length ft [mm]
34 5 6 7
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800] [2100]
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800] [2100]
Recommended Load 1000 900 700 600 —
Recommended Load 2490 1850 1530 1280 940
lb [kg] [454] [408] [318] [272]
lb [kg] [1130] [839] [694] [581] [426]
Recommended Load 3100 2730 2430 2170 1750
Recommended Load 5500 5000 4350 3800 3350
lb [kg] [1406] [1238] [1102] [984] [794]
lb [kg] [2495] [2268] [1973] [1724] [1520]
Recommended Load 3500 3100 2700 2400 2100
Recommended Load 5600 5390 5000 4480 4150
lb [kg] [1588] [1406] [1225] [1089] [953]
lb [kg] [2540] [2445] [2268] [2032] [1882]
A
Table 3 is usable for slotted angle aluminum with flange dimensions that are ± ⁄8
Slotted Angle Steel
in. [±3 mm] the flange sizes stated.
12-Gage, 0.105-in. [2.7-mm]
B
1 On spans of this length, cross bracing gives a better structure, higher recom-
1 ⁄2 by 3-in.
mended load.
[38 by 76-mm]
Column Length ft [mm]
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800] [2100]
TABLE 4 Allowable Load Per Inch of Floorboard Width for
A
Recommended Load 3450 2870 2360 1670 1150 Groups II, III, and IV Woods
lb [kg] [1565] [1302] [1071] [758] [522]
Floorboard Thickness
Length Between
in. [mm]
Outside Skids
3 1 1 1
Recommended Load 7960 7040 6240 5400 4500 ⁄4 [19] 1 ⁄2 [38] 2 ⁄2 [64] 3 ⁄2 [89]
in. (mm)
lb [kg] [3611] [3193] [2830] [2449] [2041] lb [kg] lb [kg] lb [kg] lb [kg]
11 ⁄4 [299] 48 [21] 220 [99] 574 [260] 1095 [496]
17 ⁄4 [451] 32 [14] 147 [66] 382 [173] 731 [331]
Recommended Load 8900 7940 6700 5800 4650
23 ⁄8 [600] 24 [10] 110 [49] 287 [130] 548 [248]
lb [kg] [4037] [3602] [3039] [2631] [2109]
29 ⁄2 [749] 19 [8] 88 [39] 229 [103] 438 [198]
35 ⁄2 [902] 16 [7] 73 [33] 192 [87] 365 [165]
A
Table 2 is usable for slotted angle steel with flange dimensions that are ± ⁄8 in.
41 ⁄8 [1051] 14 [6] 63 [28] 164 [74] 313 [141]
[±3 mm] the flange sizes stated.
45 ⁄4 [1149] 12 [5] 55 [24] 144 [65] 274 [124]
59 [1499] 9 [4] 44 [19] 115 [52] 219 [99]
70 ⁄8 [1800] 8 [3] 37 [16] 96 [43] 182 [82]
A
If Group III or IV woods are used, the above allowable loads may be increased
7.4.2.2 Full Diagonal Braces—Full diagonal braces shall
by 20 %.
extend from one corner diagonally across to the other corner of
the panel being braced.The braces shall be installed as close as
possibletotheangleapexandshallbesecuredateachendwith
one bolt (minimum). [0.8-mm] thick and shall comply with 6.1.3. The bolt holes in
7.4.2.3 Short or Corner Braces—Short or corner braces the strapping shall be drilled or die punched and shall be no
shall be placed in each panel corner being braced and secured larger than required for the bolt. The bolt hole shall be placed
at each end with one bolt (minimum). The braces shall be in the center of the strap and shall not be closer than half the
installed at a 45° angle or as close to that angle as possible. strap width to the end.
7.4.2.4 Steel Strapping Braces—Flat steel strapping placed 7.4.3 Structural Joints—Horizontal, vertical, and lateral
intensioninfullcrossor“X”braces(Fig.3)maybeusedwhen members ends shall be bolted together to form the corner joints
vertical frame or other crate members interfere with diagonal as shown in Fig. 4. Intermediate vertical, horizontal, and
brace placement, or when it is determined that this type of intermediate lateral members shall be bolted together to
bracing meets minimum bracing requirements. Steel strapping construct the joints as illustrated in Fig. 1. Additional vertical
shall not be less than 1 ⁄4-in. [32-mm] wide by 0.032-in. or horizontal members, which are provided for shock and
D6255/D6255M−18
TABLE 5 Required Ventilating Areas for Plywood or Veneer
struts may be added to the crate end as required to provide
Sheathed Crates
mounting or attachment points within the crate for specific
Crate Volume Ventilating Space Area
items.
3 3
ft [m ] Required in Each
Crate End or Side 7.5.2.1 Intermediate Cross Members—The distance be-
2 2
in. [mm ] 1
tween cross members shall not exceed 1 ⁄3 the crate width.
0–100 [0–2.8] 7 [4 516]
When required, intermediate cross members shall be spaced
100–150 [2.8–4.3] 10 [6 451]
150–200 [4.3–5.7] 14 [9 032]
evenly and systematically along the end height.
200–400 [5.7–11.3] 27 [17 419]
7.5.3 Crate Base—The base shall consist of flooring, cross
400–600 [11.3–17] 40 [25 806]
600–800 [17–22.7] 54 [34 839]
members, load-bearing members, and braces as required.
800–1000 [22.7–28.3] 66 [42 581]
7.5.3.1 Flooring—Although the flooring need not be con-
1000–1200 [28.3–34] 81 [52 258]
Over 1200 [Over 34] 101 [65 161] tinuous throughout the base, it shall be placed in areas to
provide protection to the contained item from damage by
forklift trucks or other material handling equipment. Plywood
TABLE 6 Approximate Metal Gage Thickness
flooring, except load-bearing floorboards, shall have a mini-
Gage 1 7
mumthicknessof
⁄4in.[6mm]forcratesthrough11 ⁄8in.[300
12 13 14 18 22
3 7
mm] wide, ⁄8 in. [9 mm] for crates over 11 ⁄8 in. [300 mm]
Approximate 0.1046 0.0897 0.0747 0.0478 0.0299
5 3
Thickness [2.657] [2.278] [1.897] [1.214] [0.759]
wide through 23 ⁄8 in. [600 mm], and ⁄4 in. [19 mm] for crates
in. [mm]
over 23 ⁄8 in. [600 mm] wide. Flooring shall be cut to fit in
place. The flooring shall be bolted to the crate lower side rails
with bolts as specified in 6.1.2 and as shown in Fig. 8, unless
a removable superstructure is specified (see Fig. 9). Each piece
vibration mounts, shall be secured using two bolts (minimum)
of flooring shall be bolted in place with two bolts (minimum)
in the slotted angle wide flange and one bolt in the narrow
in each lower side rail. The distance between bolts used to
flange. It may be necessary to use short pieces of slotted angle
secure the flooring to side rails shall not exceed 11 ⁄8 in. [300
to construct this type of joint (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 5). Forklift
mm]. When ⁄8 in. [10 mm] or thinner plywood is used for
truck handling and load bearing members shall be joined to the
3 3
flooring, a minimum ⁄4 by 1 ⁄8-in. [19 by 29-mm] wood
lower horizontal member with two bolts (minimum) at each
hold-down strip shall be used on top of the flooring. The bolts
end.
shall pass through the hold-down strip, flooring, and side rail.
7.5 Type I, Style A Crate—This simply fabricated crate
Boltsusedforsecuringfloorboardsshallnotbelessthan ⁄16-in.
usually consists of one panel to each section and requires
[8-mm] diameter.
minimum bracing. Type I, Style A crates are used for
7.5.3.2 Load-Bearing Members—Load-bearing members
lightweight, bulky, and small items not exceeding 165 lb [75
shall be wood, plywood, metal, or a combination of wood and
kg], as shown in Figs. 6 and 7. Crate dimensions shall not
metal. The members shall be placed in a crosswise position to
3 1
exceed78 ⁄4-in.[2000-mm]lengthby29 ⁄2-in.[750-mm]width
1 the crate length and bolted to the lower side rail with bolts as
by 47 ⁄4-in. [1200-mm] height, except when specific designs
specified in 6.1.2. When wood is used for load-bearing
are approved by the purchaser.
members, the size and thickness shall be determined by Table
7.5.1 Crate Sides— Crate sides shall consist of horizontal
4. When slotted metal angle is used for load-bearing members,
members (side rails), vertical members (struts), and diagonal
the size shall be determined by Tables 1-3.
braces.
7.5.1.1 Intermediate Struts—Intermediate struts shall be 7.5.3.3 Cross Members— The slotted-angle cross member
required when the spacing between the struts exceeds 1 ⁄3 the
minimum strength and quality for the base shall not be lower
crateheight.Intermediatestruts,whenrequired,shallbeevenly
than the slotted angle used in the side rails and struts. The
and systematically spaced along the length of the crate side
maximum distance between base cross members shall not
between the end struts. Where greater side strength or special
exceed 25 ⁄16 in. [649 mm]. When load-bearing members are
mounting provisions are required along the crate side, extra
used, they shall be considered adequate for cross member
intermediate struts may be added.
requirements and other cross members spaced accordingly.
7.5.1.2 Crate Side Assembly—The metal angle used for the
7.5.3.4 Braces—Crate base braces shall be of the same
side rails shall be positioned with the slotted angle wide flange
materialascrossmembers.Braceswillnotberequiredwhen ⁄3
in a vertical position. The struts shall be uniform in length and
of the base is floored with 11 ⁄8 in. [300 mm] or wider floor
bolted to the side rails’ inside edge. When the packed item is
panels.
to be placed in an upright position and anchored to the crate
7.5.4 Crate Top—The crate top shall consist o
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D6255/D6255M − 05 (Reapproved 2011) D6255/D6255M − 18
Standard Specification for
Steel or Aluminum Slotted Angle Crates
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6255/D6255M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope Scope*
1.1 This specification covers the material and fabrication of new reusable metal (slotted angle) crates intended for use as
containers for domestic and overseas shipment of lightweight airframe components and lightweight bulky items, not exceeding
3000 lb [1361 kg] for domestic or overseas air and surface shipments.
1.2 Slotted angle crate performance is dependent on its fabricated components; therefore, a variety of types, classes, and styles
reflecting varied performance are specified. This specification, however, does not cover slotted angle crate performance under all
atmosphere, handling, shipping, and storage conditions.
1.3 If the use of other construction methods or techniques are acceptable and permitted (see 5.1.12), the resulting packaging
systems shall be of equal or better performance than would result from the use of these specified materials and procedures. The
appropriate distribution cycle specified in Practice D4169 can be used to develop comparative procedures and criteria.
1.4 The values stated in either inch-pound or SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the SI units are
shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently
of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. See IEEE/ASTM SI 10 for
conversion of units.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of thethis standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A109/A109M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
A123/A123M Specification for Zinc (Hot-Dip Galvanized) Coatings on Iron and Steel Products
A924/A924M Specification for General Requirements for Steel Sheet, Metallic-Coated by the Hot-Dip Process
B209 Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate
B633 Specification for Electrodeposited Coatings of Zinc on Iron and Steel
D996 Terminology of Packaging and Distribution Environments
D1990 Practice for Establishing Allowable Properties for Visually-Graded Dimension Lumber from In-Grade Tests of Full-Size
Specimens
D3951 Practice for Commercial Packaging
D3953 Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals
D4169 Practice for Performance Testing of Shipping Containers and Systems
D4727/D4727M Specification for Corrugated and Solid Fiberboard Sheet Stock (Container Grade) and Cut Shapes
D6199 Practice for Quality of Wood Members of Containers and Pallets
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D10 on Packaging and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D10.12 on Shipping Containers,
Crates, Pallets, Skids and Related Structures.
Current edition approved April 1, 2011March 1, 2018. Published April 2011April 2018. Originally approved in 1998. Last previous edition approved in 20052011 as
D6255/D6255M – 05.D6255/D6255M – 05 (2011). DOI: 10.1520/D6255_D6255M-05R11.10.1520/D6255_D6255M-18.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D6255/D6255M − 18
D6253 Practice for Treatment and/or Marking of Wood Packaging Materials
F1667 Specification for Driven Fasteners: Nails, Spikes, and Staples
IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System
2.2 Federal Specifications:
TT-W-572 Wood Preservative: Water-Repellent
2.3 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)APA – The Engineered Wood Association:
PS1-95APA PS 1 Construction and Industrial PlywoodStructural Plywood (with Typical APA Trademarks)
2.4 American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Standards:
B18.2.1 Square and Hex Bolts and Screws (Inch Series)
B18.2.2 Square and Hex Nuts (Inch Series)
B18.2.3.5M Metric Hex Bolts
B18.2.4.1M Metric Hex Nuts, Style 1
B18.2.4.2MB18.2.6M Metric Hex Nuts, Style 2Fasteners for Use in Structural Applications
B18.5 Round Head Bolts (Inch Series)
B18.5.2.2M Metric Round Head Square Neck Bolts
2.5 Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association:
HPVA HP-1-1994 Hardwood and Decorative Plywood
2.6 National Motor Freight Traffıc Association:
National Motor Freight Classification
2.7 Uniform Classification Committee Standard:
Uniform Freight Classification
2.8 American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Standard:
Cold-Formed Steel Design Manual
2.9 International StandardsIPPC Standard:
ISPM Publication #1515 Regulation of Wood Packaging Material in International Trade
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions— General definitions for packaging and distribution environments are found in Terminology D996.
4. Classification
4.1 Type:
4.1.1 Type I—Open.
4.1.2 Type II—Fully-enclosed or sheathed with solid material.
4.2 Class:
4.2.1 Class 1—Outside or indeterminate storage.
4.2.2 Class 2—Inside or protected storage.
4.3 Style:
4.3.1 Style A—Without skids or rubbing strips.
4.3.2 Style B—With skid blocks or skids with rubbing strips and provisions for forklift truck handling.
5. Ordering Information
5.1 Purchasers should select the preferred permitted options and include the following information in procurement documents:
5.1.1 Specification title, number, and date.
5.1.2 Crate type, class, and style (see Section 4).
5.1.3 Box inside dimensions specified in order of length by width by depth.
5.1.4 Whether sanded plywood is required (see 6.1.5).
5.1.5 Type sheathing required (see 7.6.1).
5.1.6 Whether full-length skids are required (see 7.7.3.2).
5.1.7 Special features (see 7.9).
5.1.8 Marking panel size (see 7.10.1).
Available from the Federal Supply Service Bureau, Specification Section, Suite 8100, 480 L’Enfant Plaza, SW, Washington, DC 20408.
Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100 Bureau Dr., Stop 3460, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-3460.
Available from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 345 East 47th St., New York, NY 10017; American National Standard (ANSI) adopted.
Available from Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association, P.O. Box 2789, Reston, VA 22090–0789; American National Standards Institute (ANSI) adopted.
Available from National Motor Freight Traffic Association, American Trucking Associations, 2200 Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Available from the Uniform Classification Committee, Tariff Publishing Officer, 151 Ellis St., N.E., Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30335.
Available from the American Iron and Steel Institute, ATTN: Publication Orders, P.O. Box 4327, Chestertown, MD 21690.
International Plant Protection Convention Secretariat (IPPC), Viale delle Terme di Caracalla 00153 Rome, Italy, https://www.ippc.int/en/.
D6255/D6255M − 18
5.1.9 Whether crates are to be shipped assembled or disassembled (see 8.1).
5.1.10 Bolt and nut quantities required (see 6.1.2).
5.1.11 If self-locking nuts are required (see 6.1.2).
5.1.12 Whether other construction methods or techniques are acceptable and permitted (see 1.3).
5.1.12.1 Whether proof that other construction methods or techniques are acceptable (see 1.3) is required.
5.1.13 All Non-manufactured wood packaging materials must be (WPM) used for export from or import to the United States
shall comply with Practice D6253ISPM Publication 15 compliant. and the requirements of ISPM 15.
5.1.13.1 These requirements are recommended for all WPM entering the DoD supply system. Any additional requirements shall
be specified in the contract or purchase order.
6. Materials and Manufacture
6.1 Materials—It is encouraged that recycled material be used when practical. All recovered, recycled, or virgin materials used
in crate manufacture shall meet the requirements of this specification and referenced documents. In addition, materials shall not
affect or be affected by the product being packed.
6.1.1 Slotted Metal Angle—Slotted metal angle shall conform to the Supplemental Requirements of this specification.
6.1.1.1 Slotted Angle Surface Finish—Steel for Class 1 crates shall have a Class 3 surface finish (S4.7.1.3) applied. Steel for
Class 2 crates shall have a Class 1 or 2 surface finish (S4.7.1.1 or S4.7.1.2) applied. Aluminum slotted angle shall require no
additional finish.
6.1.2 Nuts and Bolts— Nuts and bolts used to assemble the slotted angle shall be of hardened steel and zinc plated after
machining. All other bolts and nuts shall be zinc-coated and conform to ASME B18.5 (B18.5.2.2M) or B18.2.1 (B18.2.3.5M), for
bolts; and, B18.2.2 (B18.2.4.1M), for nuts.
5 5
6.1.2.1 The slotted angle bolts shall be minimum ⁄16-in. [8-mm] shank diameter, ⁄8-in. [16-mm] length for Types I, II, and IV,
3 9
and ⁄4-in. for Type III and ⁄16-in. [14-mm] hexagon head. Bolts shall have an unthreaded load bearing shoulder to prevent shearing
action on the threads. Bolts shall conform to ASME B18.2.1 (B18.2.3.5M).
6.1.2.2 The slotted angle nuts shall be prevailing torque, hexagon, self-locking, to prevent loosening after extended
storage/handling and vibration during shipment. The ⁄16-in. [8-mm] nuts shall be 0.551 to 0.564-in. [13.99 to 14.33-mm] across
the flats (width). Other size nuts shall be ⁄16 in. [14 mm] across the hexagon flats. Nuts shall conform to ASME B18.2.2
(B18.2.4.2M).(B18.2.6M).
6.1.3 Strapping—Steel strapping used for banding or tension braces shall conform to Practice D3953, Type I, zinc-coated.
6.1.4 Wood Members— Wood used for skids, rubbing strips, load-bearing members, blocking and bracing, and all other wooden
components shall conform to the applicable Practice D6199, Group II, III or IV woods structural class and shall conform to
commercial standards in accordance with Practice D1990.
6.1.5 Plywood—Plywood for Class 1 crates shall conform to ANSI/HPVA HP-1-1994, Type I, Grade 3-4; NIST PS1-95, APA
PS 1, Interior with Exterior Glue; or, NIST PS1-95, APA PS 1, Exterior, Grade C-C. Plywood for Class 2 crates shall conform to
ANSI/HPVA HP-1-1994, Type II, Grade 3-4; or, NIST PS1-95, APA PS 1, Interior, Grade C-D. Plywood shall have no defects (knot
holes, worm holes, etc.) extending through the panel. Unless otherwise specified, plywood shall be finished unsanded (see 5.1.4).
6.1.6 Wood Preservative—Wood or plywood components shall be treated in accordance with TT-W-572, or a commercial
equivalent.
6.1.7 Fiberboard—Fiberboard used for sheathing shall conform to Specification D4727/D4727M, Type SF, Class–Weather-
Resistant, Grades V2s, V3s, or V4s.
6.1.8 Sheet Steel— Steel used for marking panels shall conform to Specification A109/A109M.
6.1.9 Nails—Nails used to secure top sheathing shall be cement-coated or chemically-etched common or box nails conforming
to Specification F1667.
7. Construction
7.1 Slotted Angle Member Selection—Slotted angle selection shall be based on crate size and load weight. Tables 1-3 shall be
used as a guide for slotted angle selection.
7.2 Member Splicing—Steel or aluminum components shall be continuous lengths. When splicing is necessary, four bolts
(minimum) shall be used to secure a lap splice and eight bolts (minimum) shall be used to secure a butt splice, as shown in Fig.
1.
7.3 Cutting Slotted Angle:
7.3.1 All Members— Members shall be cut at 3-in. [76-mm] increments to utilize the slot and hole pattern properly. After
cutting, members shall be trimmed to the required length.
7.3.2 Diagonal Members— When cutting of diagonals is required, the wide flange of the angle can be cut on a miter to provide
maximum contact area and positive bolting locations.
7.4 Construction— One slotted metal angle crate shall have six faces (two sides, two ends, one top, and one base). Each face
shall be rectangular in shape and consist of one or more panels. A panel is an area bounded by slotted metal angle members.
Normally, the sides are constructed and the ends, top, and base are used to hold the sides together.
D6255/D6255M − 18
A
TABLE 1 Slotted Angle Steel Beam Load Capacity
Slotted Angle Steel
12-Gage, 0.105-in. [2.7-mm]
1 ⁄2 by 3-in.
[38 by 76-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
2 3 4 5 6
[600] [900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
Recommended Load 1450 980 740 500 350
lb [kg] [658] [445] [336] [227] [159]
Recommended Load 4500 3100 2100 1200 1000
lb [kg] [2041] [1406] [953] [544] [454]
Recommended Load 10400 7500 5300 4350 3500
lb [kg] [4717] [3402] [2404] [1973] [1588]
Recommended Load 1550 1000 760 580 490
lb [kg] [703] [454] [345] [263] [222]
Slotted Angle Steel
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm]
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4-in.
[38 by 57-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
2 3 4 5 6
[600] [900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
Recommended Load 1260 850 610 400 200
lb [kg] [572] [386] [277] [181] [91]
Recommended Load 2400 1700 1150 820 625
lb [kg] [1089] [771] [522] [372] [284]
Recommended Load 5190 3350 2700 2100 1700
lb [kg] [2354] [1520] [1225] [953] [771]
Recommended Load 800 510 390 300 250
lb [kg] [363] [231] [177] [136] [113]
Slotted Angle Steel
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm]
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 1 ⁄2-in.
[38 by 38-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
3 4 5 6
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
Recommended Load 495 270 190 145
lb [kg] [225] [123] [86] [66]
Recommended Load 590 395 295 190
lb [kg] [268] [179] [134] [86]
Recommended Load 1335 1035 690 540
lb [kg] [606] [470] [313] [245]
A
Table 1 is usable for slotted angle steel with flange dimensions that are ± ⁄8 in.
[±3 mm] the flange sizes stated.
7.4.1 Assembly—Slotted metal angle shall be assembled with bolts of the same diameter for which the slotted metal angle was
intended or designed. Bolts and nuts shall be drawn tight to secure against loosening. Bolts and nuts shall be as specified in 6.1.2.
7.4.2 Braces—All panels shall have either diagonal braces or steel strapping braces for support.
7.4.2.1 Diagonal Braces— Diagonal brace placement is shown in Fig. 2. All diagonal braces shall be installed to maximize
utilization of the round holes in the metal angle.
7.4.2.2 Full Diagonal Braces—Full diagonal braces shall extend from one corner diagonally across to the other corner of the
panel being braced. The braces shall be installed as close as possible to the angle apex and shall be secured at each end with one
bolt (minimum).
7.4.2.3 Short or Corner Braces—Short or corner braces shall be placed in each panel corner being braced and secured at each
end with one bolt (minimum). The braces shall be installed at a 45° angle or as close to that angle as possible.
D6255/D6255M − 18
A
TABLE 2 Slotted Angle Steel Column Load Capacity
Slotted Angle Steel
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm]
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 1 ⁄2-in.
[38 by 38-mm]
Column Length ft [mm]
3 4 5 6
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
Recommended Load 1480 1180 940 740
lb [kg] [672] [535] [426] [336]
Recommended Load 3830 3475 2970 2475
lb [kg] [1737] [1576] [1347] [1123]
Recommended Load 3900 3565 3170 2620
lb [kg] [1769] [1617] [1438] [1188]
Slotted Angle Steel
14-Gage, 0.075-in. [1.9-mm]
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4 in.
[38 by 57-mm]
Column Length ft [mm]
3 4 5 6 7
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800] [2100]
Recommended Load 2490 1850 1530 1280 940
lb [kg] [1130] [839] [694] [581] [426]
Recommended Load 5500 5000 4350 3800 3350
lb [kg] [2495] [2268] [1973] [1724] [1520]
Recommended Load 5600 5390 5000 4480 4150
lb [kg] [2540] [2445] [2268] [2032] [1882]
Slotted Angle Steel
12-Gage, 0.105-in. [2.7-mm]
1 ⁄2 by 3-in.
[38 by 76-mm]
Column Length ft [mm]
3 4 5 6 7
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800] [2100]
Recommended Load 3450 2870 2360 1670 1150
lb [kg] [1565] [1302] [1071] [758] [522]
Recommended Load 7960 7040 6240 5400 4500
lb [kg] [3611] [3193] [2830] [2449] [2041]
Recommended Load 8900 7940 6700 5800 4650
lb [kg] [4037] [3602] [3039] [2631] [2109]
A
Table 2 is usable for slotted angle steel with flange dimensions that are ± ⁄8 in.
[±3 mm] the flange sizes stated.
7.4.2.4 Steel Strapping Braces—Flat steel strapping placed in tension in full cross or “X” braces (Fig. 3) may be used when
vertical frame or other crate members interfere with diagonal brace placement, or when it is determined that this type of bracing
meets minimum bracing requirements. Steel strapping shall not be less than 1 ⁄4-in. [32-mm] wide by 0.032-in. [0.8-mm] thick and
shall comply with 6.1.3. The bolt holes in the strapping shall be drilled or die punched and shall be no larger than required for the
bolt. The bolt hole shall be placed in the center of the strap and shall not be closer than half the strap width to the end.
7.4.3 Structural Joints—Horizontal, vertical, and lateral members ends shall be bolted together to form the corner joints as
shown in Fig. 4. Intermediate vertical, horizontal, and intermediate lateral members shall be bolted together to construct the joints
as illustrated in Fig. 1. Additional vertical or horizontal members, which are provided for shock and vibration mounts, shall be
secured using two bolts (minimum) in the slotted angle wide flange and one bolt in the narrow flange. It may be necessary to use
short pieces of slotted angle to construct this type of joint (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 5). Forklift truck handling and load bearing members
shall be joined to the lower horizontal member with two bolts (minimum) at each end.
7.5 Type I, Style A Crate—This simply fabricated crate usually consists of one panel to each section and requires minimum
bracing. Type I, Style A crates are used for lightweight, bulky, and small items not exceeding 165 lb [75 kg], as shown in Figs.
D6255/D6255M − 18
A
TABLE 3 Slotted Angle Aluminum Configurations Load Capacity
Slotted Angle Aluminum
13-Gage, 0.089-in. [2.3-mm]
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4-in.
[38 by 57-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
3 4 5 6
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800]
Recommended Load 450 350 260 180
lb [kg] [204] [159] [118] [82]
B B
Recommended Load 950 600
400 350
[181] [159]
lb [kg] [431] [272]
Recommended Load 2200 1600 1240 940
lb [kg] [998] [726] [563] [426]
Slotted Angle Aluminum
13-Gage, 0.089-in. [2.3-mm]
1 1
1 ⁄2 by 2 ⁄4-in.
[38 by 57-mm]
Beam Length ft [mm]
3 4 5 6 7
[900] [1200] [1500] [1800] [2100]
Recommended Load 1000 900 700 600 —
lb [kg] [454] [408] [318] [272]
Recommended Load 3100 2730 2430 2170 1750
lb [kg] [1406] [1238] [1102] [984] [794]
Recommended Load 3500 3100 2700 2400 2100
lb [kg] [1588] [1406] [1225] [1089] [953]
A
Table 3 is usable for slotted angle aluminum with flange dimensions that are ± ⁄8
in. [±3 mm] the flange sizes stated.
B
On spans of this length, cross bracing gives a better structure, higher recom-
mended load.
TABLE 4 Allowable Load Per Inch of Floorboard Width for
A
Groups II, III, and IV Woods
Floorboard Thickness
Length Between
in. [mm]
Outside Skids
3 1 1 1
⁄4 [19] 1 ⁄2 [38] 2 ⁄2 [64] 3 ⁄2 [89]
in. (mm)
lb [kg] lb [kg] lb [kg] lb [kg]
11 ⁄4 [299] 48 [21] 220 [99] 574 [260] 1095 [496]
17 ⁄4 [451] 32 [14] 147 [66] 382 [173] 731 [331]
23 ⁄8 [600] 24 [10] 110 [49] 287 [130] 548 [248]
29 ⁄2 [749] 19 [8] 88 [39] 229 [103] 438 [198]
35 ⁄2 [902] 16 [7] 73 [33] 192 [87] 365 [165]
41 ⁄8 [1051] 14 [6] 63 [28] 164 [74] 313 [141]
45 ⁄4 [1149] 12 [5] 55 [24] 144 [65] 274 [124]
59 [1499] 9 [4] 44 [19] 115 [52] 219 [99]
70 ⁄8 [1800] 8 [3] 37 [16] 96 [43] 182 [82]
A
If Group III or IV woods are used, the above allowable loads may be increased
by 20 %.
3 1 1
6 and 7. Crate dimensions shall not exceed 78 ⁄4-in. [2000-mm] length by 29 ⁄2-in. [750-mm] width by 47 ⁄4-in. [1200-mm] height,
except when specific designs are approved by the purchaser.
7.5.1 Crate Sides— Crate sides shall consist of horizontal members (side rails), vertical members (struts), and diagonal braces.
7.5.1.1 Intermediate Struts—Intermediate struts shall be required when the spacing between the struts exceeds 1 ⁄3 the crate
height. Intermediate struts, when required, shall be evenly and systematically spaced along the length of the crate side between
the end struts. Where greater side strength or special mounting provisions are required along the crate side, extra intermediate struts
may be added.
7.5.1.2 Crate Side Assembly—The metal angle used for the side rails shall be positioned with the slotted angle wide flange in
a vertical position. The struts shall be uniform in length and bolted to the side rails’ inside edge. When the packed item is to be
placed in an upright position and anchored to the crate base, all struts shall be positioned with the slotted angle wide flange against
the crate side rails’ wide flange.
D6255/D6255M − 18
TABLE 5 Required Ventilating Areas for Plywood or Veneer
Sheathed Crates
Crate Volume Ventilating Space Area
3 3
ft [m ] Required in Each
Crate End or Side
2 2
in. [mm ]
0–100 [0–2.8] 7 [4 516]
100–150 [2.8–4.3] 10 [6 451]
150–200 [4.3–5.7] 14 [9 032]
200–400 [5.7–11.3] 27 [17 419]
400–600 [11.3–17] 40 [25 806]
600–800 [17–22.7] 54 [34 839]
800–1000 [22.7–28.3] 66 [42 581]
1000–1200 [28.3–34] 81 [52 258]
Over 1200 [Over 34] 101 [65 161]
TABLE 6 Approximate Metal Gage Thickness
Gage
12 13 14 18 22
Approximate 0.1046 0.0897 0.0747 0.0478 0.0299
Thickness [2.657] [2.278] [1.897] [1.214] [0.759]
in. [mm]
7.5.2 Crate Ends—The crate ends shall consist of slotted angle lateral (cross) members and braces joining the two crate sides.
Two cross members (minimum), one joining the sides’ top corners and one joining the sides’ bottom corners, shall be used on each
end. Additional cross members or intermediate struts may be added to the crate end as required to provide mounting or attachment
points within the crate for specific items.
7.5.2.1 Intermediate Cross Members—The distance between cross members shall not exceed 1 ⁄3 the crate width. When
required, intermediate cross members shall be spaced evenly and systematically along the end height.
7.5.3 Crate Base—The base shall consist of flooring, cross members, load-bearing members, and braces as required.
7.5.3.1 Flooring—Although the flooring need not be continuous throughout the base, it shall be placed in areas to provide
protection to the contained item from damage by forklift trucks or other material handling equipment. Plywood flooring, except
1 7 3
load-bearing floorboards, shall have a minimum thickness of ⁄4 in. [6 mm] for crates through 11 ⁄8 in. [300 mm] wide, ⁄8 in. [9
7 5 3 5
mm] for crates over 11 ⁄8 in. [300 mm] wide through 23 ⁄8 in. [600 mm], and ⁄4 in. [19 mm] for crates over 23 ⁄8 in. [600 mm]
wide. Flooring shall be cut to fit in place. The flooring shall be bolted to the crate lower side rails with bolts as specified in 6.1.2
and as shown in Fig. 8, unless a removable superstructure is specified (see Fig. 9). Each piece of flooring shall be bolted in place
with two bolts (minimum) in each lower side rail. The distance between bolts used to secure the flooring to side rails shall not
7 3 3 3
exceed 11 ⁄8 in. [300 mm]. When ⁄8 in. [10 mm] or thinner plywood is used for flooring, a minimum ⁄4 by 1 ⁄8-in. [19 by 29-mm]
wood hold-down strip shall be used on top of the flooring. The bolts shall pass through the hold-down strip, flooring, and side rail.
Bolts used for securing floorboards shall not be less than ⁄16-in. [8-mm] diameter.
7.5.3.2 Load-Bearing Members—Load-bearing members shall be wood, plywood, metal, or a combination of wood and metal.
The members shall be placed in a crosswise position to the crate length and bolted to the lower side rail with bolts as specified
in 6.1.2. When wood is used for load-bearing members, the size and thickness shall be determined by Table 4. When slotted metal
angle is used for load-bearing members, the size shall be
...