Wire mesh container: how to choose and inspect it?
The wire mesh container is the standardised stackable box for heavy small and bulk goods. This guide explains how to choose load capacity, stackability and gate type, which dimensions apply under DIN 15155, and how to assess condition against DGUV inspection criteria.
View wire mesh containersHow is a wire mesh container built and standardised?
A wire mesh container is a stackable steel mesh box on four feet with runners, allowing handling by forklift and pallet truck. The classic version is described in DIN 15155 and used across Europe as an exchange container under UIC 435‑3.
The standard base size is about 1240 x 835 mm externally at roughly 970 mm height, with a dead weight of 70 to 85 kg depending on version. Usable volume reaches around 0.72 m³, so the box fits exactly onto Euro pallet storage locations.
How do I choose load capacity, stacking and gate?
The three selection criteria are load capacity, stacking load and gate type. The load capacity (maximum payload) is 1000 kg for standard boxes, while reinforced versions carry up to 1500 kg. Always check the printed rating plate, not just the appearance.
For stacking, the stacking load matters: four loaded boxes on top of each other mean the bottom one must bear roughly three times the payload. So check the permitted stacking height (usually 4-high loaded) and a level, load-bearing floor.
- Load capacity: 1000 kg standard, 1500 kg reinforced - check the rating plate.
- Stacking load: up to 4 loaded boxes, the bottom bears the top three.
- Gate: half-height front drop gate for easy picking without lifting.
- Base: closed sheet for small parts, mesh for cleanliness and drainage.
- Top flaps: hinged for loading from above by crane or chute.
How to combine wire mesh containers with racking and small parts bins.
Read the guideHow do I assess condition under DGUV?
Wire mesh containers count as load-handling attachments and must be inspected at least annually by a competent person under the German Ordinance on Industrial Safety and DGUV rules. After special events such as a fall or impact damage, an extra inspection is due.
Frame, feet, runners, gate and mesh are checked for deformation, cracks and corrosion. Boxes with safety-relevant defects are blocked, marked and sent for repair or scrapping.
- Inspection by a competent person, results documented.
- Remove red-marked boxes from circulation immediately.
- Bent feet compromise stacking stability.
- Corrosion and load-bearing cracks lead to rejection.
Frequently asked questions
How much load can a wire mesh container carry?
Standard containers to DIN 15155 carry 1000 kg payload, reinforced versions up to 1500 kg. The rating plate of the specific box is always decisive.
How high can wire mesh containers be stacked?
Loaded, four boxes on top of each other are usually permitted. The bottom box then bears the load of the three above, so a level, load-bearing floor is mandatory.
When must a wire mesh container be inspected?
As a load-handling attachment, at least once a year by a competent person, plus after any damage event. The result must be documented.
When is a wire mesh container no longer exchangeable?
When feet are bent, frame profiles broken or several adjacent mesh wires torn. Such boxes are blocked and either repaired or scrapped.
Looking for the right wire mesh container?
We supply standard and reinforced wire mesh containers with a drop gate - stackable, exchangeable and made to DIN 15155.
Standard-compliant
Containers to DIN 15155 and UIC 435-3.
Strong
1000 to 1500 kg capacity, 4-high stackable.
Inspectable
Condition assessment to DGUV criteria.
Expert advice
Our team helps with selection and inspection.