Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a convertible, collapsible and reusable shipping crate. The crate is convertible in that the same base can used with extendable gates or fixed gates to ship equipment of differing heights, lengths, and wheel bases. At least one end of the crate may operate as a gate on a hinge for the loading and unloading of motorized vehicles. The hinge is comprised of a slotted plate on each side to lock the gates into place for loading and to raise the gates upright once loading is completed. The slotted plate positions the gates in an upright, locked position to carry all the weight on the upright beams of the gate, rather than the hinges, thereby allowing multiple crates to be stacked. The slotted plates also allow each of the two gates to collapse inward and flat on the base for stacking during return.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a convertible, collapsible and reusable shipping crate. The crate is convertible in that the same base can used with extendable gates or fixed gates to ship equipment of differing heights, lengths, and wheel bases. At least one end of the crate may operate as a gate on a hinge for the loading and unloading of motorized vehicles. The hinge is comprised of a slotted plate on each side to lock the gates into place for loading and to raise the gates upright once loading is completed. The slotted plate positions the gates in an upright, locked position to carry all the weight on the upright beams of the gate, rather than the hinges, thereby allowing multiple crates to be stacked. The slotted plates also allow each of the two gates to collapse inward and flat on the base for stacking during return.