About Oregon Boxes
For over 25 years, we've been Oregon's trusted partner for quality used gaylord boxes. Our commitment to sustainability and customer service sets us apart in the industry.
From a small Portland warehouse to Oregon's leading packaging solutions provider, our journey has been driven by one mission: giving quality boxes a second life while helping businesses save money and protect the planet.
Our Story
From humble beginnings to industry leadership - the Oregon Boxes journey
The Beginning (1998)
Oregon Boxes was founded in 1998 by Michael Thompson, a logistics veteran who saw an opportunity to transform how Oregon businesses approached packaging. Starting in a modest 5,000 square foot Portland warehouse, Michael had a simple yet powerful vision: quality packaging shouldn't cost the earth - literally or financially.
The early days were challenging. With just two employees and a single delivery truck, Michael personally inspected every box, built relationships with local manufacturers, and earned trust one customer at a time. His commitment to quality and personal service became the foundation of our company culture.
That first year, we recycled 50,000 boxes and served 12 customers. It was modest, but it proved the concept: businesses wanted sustainable, cost-effective packaging solutions, and they valued a partner who understood their needs.
Growth & Evolution (2000-2010)
As word spread about our quality and service, demand grew rapidly. By 2005, we'd outgrown our original facility and moved to a 50,000 square foot warehouse in North Portland. Our team expanded to 15 employees, and we were serving customers across Oregon and into Washington.
The 2008 recession could have been devastating, but it actually strengthened our business. As companies looked to cut costs without sacrificing quality, used gaylord boxes became not just a nice-to-have, but essential. We helped dozens of businesses weather the economic storm while maintaining their operations.
This period taught us valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the critical importance of building strong customer relationships. Many of our longest-standing customers came to us during those challenging years and have remained partners ever since.
Innovation & Leadership (2010-Present)
In 2012, we launched our comprehensive Green Initiative, formalizing our commitment to environmental stewardship. We invested in sorting equipment, developed partnerships with recycling facilities, and created a tracking system to measure our environmental impact. To date, we've diverted over 10 million pounds of corrugated material from landfills.
The addition of our own delivery fleet in 2018 was a game-changer, allowing us to control quality and timing while reducing costs. During the 2020 pandemic, our fleet enabled us to provide critical support when supply chains were disrupted, earning recognition as an essential business.
Today, with over 500 active customers and a team of 35 dedicated professionals, we're not just Oregon's leading used gaylord box supplier - we're a trusted partner in sustainable business practices, recognized by industry organizations and our customers alike.
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
At Oregon Boxes, we believe every box deserves a second life. Our mission is to provide businesses with cost-effective, environmentally responsible packaging solutions while reducing waste and supporting sustainable commerce in our communities.
We work closely with manufacturers, warehouses, and retailers throughout Oregon to recover, repair, and redistribute quality gaylord boxes, keeping them out of landfills and in productive use.
By bridging the gap between businesses with surplus packaging and those who need it, we create a circular economy that benefits everyone - reducing costs for our customers, decreasing environmental impact, and building stronger local business relationships.
Our Vision
We envision a future where sustainable packaging is not just an option, but the standard. Where businesses of all sizes have access to quality, affordable packaging solutions that don't compromise environmental values or operational excellence.
Our vision extends beyond Oregon. We're working to become the Pacific Northwest's leading sustainable packaging partner, setting industry standards for quality, service, and environmental stewardship that inspire others to follow.
We see Oregon Boxes as a catalyst for change - proving that profitability and environmental responsibility aren't mutually exclusive, but rather complementary forces that create lasting value for businesses, communities, and the planet.
Driven by Purpose, Measured by Impact
Every box we recycle, every customer we serve, brings us closer to our vision
Our Core Values
These principles guide every decision we make and every interaction we have
Sustainability First
Every decision we make prioritizes environmental impact. We've diverted over 10 million pounds of corrugated material from landfills, giving quality boxes a second life and reducing the carbon footprint of packaging.
Uncompromising Quality
Our rigorous 15-point inspection process ensures every box meets strict standards. We personally grade each gaylord box, guaranteeing reliability and performance that protects your products and reputation.
Transparent Integrity
Honest pricing, clear communication, and ethical business practices define us. No hidden fees, no surprises - just straightforward service you can trust. Our relationships are built on transparency and mutual respect.
Customer-Centric Service
Your success is our mission. From flexible delivery schedules to custom packaging solutions, we go above and beyond. Our 98% satisfaction rate reflects our dedication to exceeding expectations every single day.
Community Partnership
We're proud Oregonians supporting local businesses. By sourcing and supplying within our community, we strengthen the local economy, create jobs, and build lasting relationships with our neighbors.
Continuous Innovation
The packaging industry evolves, and so do we. We invest in new technologies, refining our processes, and exploring sustainable alternatives to stay ahead and provide you with the best solutions available.
Our Journey
25+ years of milestones, growth, and unwavering commitment to our customers
Founded
Started operations in a small Portland warehouse with a focus on quality and customer service.
First Major Contract
Secured partnership with leading Oregon food processing companies, establishing our reputation.
Facility Expansion
Moved to 50,000 sq ft facility and began serving the entire Pacific Northwest region.
Economic Resilience
During the recession, helped businesses save costs while maintaining supply chain integrity.
Green Initiative Launch
Launched comprehensive recycling and sustainability program, diverting 5 million lbs from landfills.
Industry Recognition
Received Oregon Green Business Award for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
Transportation Fleet
Added our own delivery fleet with 12 vehicles for faster, more reliable service across Oregon.
Pandemic Response
Provided critical packaging support during supply chain disruptions, ensuring business continuity.
25 Years Strong
Celebrating 25 years of service with 500+ active customers and 10 million boxes recycled.
Innovation Hub
Opening new R&D facility to develop next-generation sustainable packaging solutions.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Experienced professionals dedicated to your success and sustainable business practices
Michael Thompson
Founder & CEO
With 30+ years in logistics, Michael founded Oregon Boxes with a vision of sustainable packaging.
Sarah Chen
Director of Operations
Sarah oversees quality control and warehouse operations, ensuring every box meets our high standards.
James Rodriguez
Sustainability Manager
James leads our environmental initiatives and partners with businesses to optimize packaging reuse.
Join Our Growing Team
We're always looking for talented, passionate individuals who share our commitment to sustainability and customer service. Check out our current openings.
Contact Us About CareersSustainability Commitment
Environmental stewardship isn't just part of our business - it's the foundation of everything we do
Our Environmental Impact
10+ Million Pounds Diverted
Over our 25-year history, we've kept more than 10 million pounds of corrugated material out of landfills, giving quality boxes multiple lifecycles.
Gold-Level Green Certification
Recognized by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality for our leadership in environmental practices and sustainable business operations.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
By promoting reuse over new production, we help reduce the energy, water, and raw materials needed for manufacturing new boxes - cutting carbon emissions significantly.
Community Education & Partnership
We actively partner with local organizations to promote recycling awareness and sustainable business practices throughout Oregon communities.
Awards & Recognition
Our commitment to excellence has been recognized by industry leaders and community organizations
Business Excellence Award
Oregon Business Association
Recognized for outstanding service and business growth
Green Business Certification
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
Gold level certification for environmental leadership
Community Impact Award
Portland Chamber of Commerce
Honored for community involvement and local partnerships
Essential Business Recognition
State of Oregon
Acknowledged for critical supply chain support during pandemic
Customer Success Stories
Don't just take our word for it - hear from businesses who trust Oregon Boxes
"Oregon Boxes has been our packaging partner for 8 years. Their quality and reliability are unmatched. We've saved over $150,000 while reducing our environmental footprint."
Pacific Foods Co.
Food Processing
David Martinez
Supply Chain Director
"The team at Oregon Boxes understands our unique needs. They provide custom solutions and always deliver on time. Their service has been instrumental to our growth."
Northwest Manufacturing
Industrial Parts
Jennifer Lee
Operations Manager
"As a sustainable farm, partnering with Oregon Boxes was a natural fit. Their commitment to recycling aligns with our values, and their pricing helps us stay competitive."
Green Valley Farms
Agriculture
Robert Thompson
Owner
Community Involvement
Giving back to the Oregon communities that have supported us for over 25 years
Making a Difference Locally
Oregon Food Bank Partnership
We provide free packaging materials to the Oregon Food Bank, supporting their mission to end hunger. Over 5,000 boxes donated annually help distribute food to families in need.
Educational Programs
We host tours and workshops for local schools and colleges, teaching students about recycling, supply chain management, and sustainable business practices.
Small Business Support
We offer special pricing and flexible terms for Oregon startups and small businesses, helping them grow while maintaining sustainable practices.
Community Events Sponsorship
From farmers markets to sustainability fairs, we actively sponsor and participate in local events that bring Oregon communities together.
Together We're Stronger
Our success is deeply connected to the success of Oregon communities. We believe in giving back and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.
Partners & Affiliations
Proud members of organizations that advance sustainable business practices and community development
Oregon Food Bank
Portland Business Alliance
Northwest Recycling Coalition
Oregon Manufacturers Association
Pacific Northwest Logistics Alliance
Green Business Network
Industry Leadership
Our partnerships reflect our commitment to industry best practices, environmental stewardship, and business excellence. We actively collaborate with these organizations to advance sustainable packaging solutions and support Oregon's business community.
Through these affiliations, we stay current with industry trends, contribute to policy discussions, and connect with other businesses committed to making a positive impact.
Ready to Partner With Us?
Join over 500 Oregon businesses who trust Oregon Boxes for quality, sustainable packaging solutions. Let's build a partnership that benefits your business and the environment.