Returnable transport container, blank for producing a returnable transport container, system and method for returning returnable transport containers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a returnable transport container (1) for transporting and storing objects and for repeatedly returning the container to the shipping cycle, comprising a collapsible container (1) having a bottom (2) and four peripheral side walls (3, 4, 5, 6) which are adjoined by four cover portions (7, 8, 9, 10), which transport container is characterized in that the transport container is formed by a hollow-chamber multi-wall sheet or a hollow-chamber sheet having at least one undulating intermediate layer between two outer layers, or a nub-structure sheet.

Description

[0001] REUSABLE TRANSPORT CONTAINER, CUTTING FOR THE PRODUCTION OF A REUSABLE TRANSPORT CONTAINER,

[0002] SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RETURNING REUSABLE TRANSPORT CONTAINERS

[0003] The present invention relates to a reusable transport container for the transport, storage, in particular the shipping of objects according to the preamble of claim 1 and a blank therefor according to the preamble of claim 16. Furthermore, the invention relates to a system for the production, return, reintroduction and recycling of the reusable transport container according to the preamble of claim 17, a circulating use of the reusable transport container according to the preamble of claim 19 and a method for returning the same according to the preamble of claim 20.

[0004] Containers for storing and transporting goods, especially folding boxes, collapsible crates, rigid boxes, and the like, are often delivered in bulk, for example, to shipping companies or end users. Shipping companies, in particular, order and store containers for shipping in large quantities. Space is often very limited in the packing lines of shipping companies or in their warehouses, creating a need for space-saving transport and storage containers. At the same time, the assembly of a container for filling with goods should be quick and easy, ideally with just one movement.

[0005] Folding boxes, crates, and the like are delivered flat and ready for use in a folded or folded state. They are then unfolded and positioned by the operator, i.e., the packer or repacker, before being packed. The containers are usually made from a single piece, with the base and lid often each formed by four closure flaps.

[0006] Such folding boxes and containers are usually made of single- or multi-layer corrugated cardboard, which has the disadvantage that they can only be used once. In their packed transport state, the corrugated cardboard boxes are usually glued to their four hinged upper lid sections, which are folded horizontally inward, using strong-adhesive packaging adhesive, labels, and the like. Packaging tape is often carelessly torn or cut off the box by the end user, resulting in a cut into the box or the tape tearing open the upper layer of the corrugated cardboard. The box is regularly disposed of by the end user and not reused for return shipping.If this box is ever used to return the product from the end consumer to the mail order company, the mail order company is forced to discard this damaged corrugated cardboard box, as it is no longer possible to send the same box to another customer due to the damage.

[0007] A major disadvantage of disposable transport containers made of corrugated cardboard or corrugated board is their poor environmental impact. Since the cardboard or board is no longer usable as a transport container after one intensive use (scratched, bent, torn, destroyed), it is either disposed of and recycled by the end user with the paper waste or thrown into the general waste. Furthermore, it is often very difficult for the end user to make the cardboard transport containers smaller. Due to the adhesives and its rigidity, the cardboard must be pressed into a flat state in several steps. This requires several steps, in particular the transport container is usually thrown on the floor and repeatedly stamped flat with the feet. The result is a not entirely flat box, which must be recycled at great expense. Furthermore, there is no orderly return process for conventional cardboard packaging to the manufacturer.Instead, cardboard packaging is passed on as waste and, at best, returned to the recycling process as waste paper. Cardboard packaging is not suitable as reusable packaging. In addition, such packaging is not stable; particularly when exposed to moisture, there is a risk of the cardboard packaging softening, causing the goods to fall out during transport or storage.

[0008] It is therefore the object of the following invention to provide a reusable transport container that can easily replace conventional transport containers made of cardboard, in particular corrugated cardboard or corrugated board. The reusable transport container should be made of a material that can make a significant contribution to the circular economy and decarbonization while simultaneously not increasing the costs per use compared to conventional disposable transport containers. Above all, a large number of cycles with one and the same reusable transport container between the mail order company and the end user or customer should be ensured, and the return transport should also be quick and easy.

[0009] In addition, a reusable transport container is to be provided which is versatile, easy to handle, can be folded quickly and repeatedly, is robustly constructed and also easy to manufacture.

[0010] A further objective is to provide a reusable transport container in which the return transport of the so-called "return container" can be carried out reliably through a return system, preferably with a deposit. The system should be cost-effective while simultaneously being environmentally beneficial. The circulation of returned reusable transport containers and their reuse for a subsequent transport cycle should be more cost-effective than the use of a recycled transport container, especially a disposable cardboard box.

[0011] This object is achieved by a reusable transport container according to claim 1 and a blank for folding the reusable transport container according to claim 16. Furthermore, this object is achieved by a system according to claim 17, a use according to claim 19, and a method according to claim 20. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the subclaims.

[0012] According to the invention, a reusable transport container is provided for the transport and storage of objects, as well as for repeated return to the shipping cycle. The container comprises a foldable container with a base and four circumferentially arranged side walls, with a lid section hinged to each of the side walls. According to the invention, the reusable transport container is formed from a hollow-wall sheet or hollow-wall sheet with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers or a dimpled structure plate.

[0013] The hollow-wall panel, abbreviated here as "hollow-wall panel," is characterized by the fact that it forms connecting webs between two smooth outer layers of material, in a manner that mimics common single-wall cardboard packaging, except that the material is not cardboard or paperboard but a preferably synthetic or semi-synthetic polymer, particularly preferably a plastic. It is also possible for the panel to be formed from two smooth outer layers and at least one single-wall intermediate layer.

[0014] The reusable transport container can be formed from a dimpled structure plate, preferably made of plastic. The dimpled structure plate is a flat structure, archable or bendable, like a rigid cardboard layer. The dimpled structure plate is characterized by at least two so-called cover layers, which are preferably made of polypropylene. The two cover layers form outer layers, a first outer layer and a second outer layer, between which a type of bubble-shaped core is enclosed. The dimpled structure plates are extruded from two polypropylene cover layers and a core made of bubble-shaped polypropylene. The polypropylene bubbles can be circular, oval, diamond-shaped, or elongated structures that connect the two cover layers. Other shapes are possible. The structures are expediently arranged at equal distances from one another.The cover layers are thus connected to one another by an internal dimple structure, which forms the core of the panel. The first outer layer can form the outer side of a blank and thus essentially the outer side of the container. The second outer layer can form the inner side of a blank and thus essentially the inner side of the container. The cover layers are expediently formed as a film or foil, preferably as an injection-molded polypropylene carrier film.

[0015] The dimpled structure panel is advantageously stable in any direction and easy to process. After prior processing (grooving, punching, milling), it can be easily folded or bent. It is equally stable in every direction and can therefore be cut into any shape. It absorbs impacts and vibrations particularly well compared to hollow-wall panels with a corrugated intermediate layer or hollow-wall multi-wall panels. Compared to other hollow-wall panels, the dimpled structure panel exhibits higher bending resistance and greater compressive stress. This means that stress whitening, which occurs when plastics are subjected to high or excessive stress during processing or as a result of deformation and cracks develop, can be almost entirely or completely avoided.

[0016] The surface of the cover layers can be designed in different ways. This can mean that the colors of the two cover layers differ from one another, or that the cover layers can be glossy, matte, smooth, rough, or even vary from one another. For example, the first outer cover layer can be blue and the second cover layer green. This creates particularly impressive aesthetic effects. Customers can use this design to display a company logo and / or company colors. It is also possible to design the surface of one or both cover layers to make label removal easier. For example, the cover layer on the outside of the container, or the first outer layer, can be silicone-coated to make label removal easier. In this case, the first outer layer forms the outside and not the inside of the container. It is also possible to design the surface of one or both cover layers to improve label adhesion.Alternatively, a rough surface can be chosen, which allows for easier label removal. Alternatively, the polymer plate with its ribbing or the polymer dimpled structure plate can be made of bio-based or biodegradable polymers. Combinations are, of course, conceivable.

[0017] A corrugated polymer sheet is therefore a sheet made up of two smooth outer layers with either webs arranged vertically at equal distances between them, which form hollow chambers as elongated hollow channels, or a corrugated inner layer which is sandwiched between the two outer layers and whose corrugation tips abut the outer layer and are advantageously adhesively bonded or welded to it. Together with the outer layers, the single-wave inner layer forms equally elongated hollow channels. In addition to the corrugated inner layer, another corrugated inner layer can be provided, optionally with a smooth intermediate layer located between the two corrugated inner layers, so that a smooth outer layer is followed by a single-wave inner layer, then the smooth intermediate layer, then another single-wave inner layer and then a smooth outer layer. This results in a double-wave hollow chamber sheet.The plate is a flat structure, which can be curved or bent over its surface, like a stiff layer of cardboard.

[0018] Advantageously, the thickness of the plate is approximately between 1 and 8 mm, preferably 1.5 to 6 mm, particularly preferably 2 to 2.5 mm. It goes without saying that the reusable transport container can be square or rectangular in shape with two opposite long sides and two opposite end or narrow sides.

[0019] Due to the special material used for the reusable transport container, its external appearance is almost identical to the conventional transport containers made of corrugated cardboard or corrugated board in the one-way system, which are widely accepted by consumers and mail-order companies. At the same time, handling during packing, unpacking, or repacking is very similar. In terms of weight, the panel is lighter than a comparably rigid cardboard layer. Due to the material, a corrugated or hollow-wall panel or dimpled plastic panel can be folded into an upright or folded position more quickly and easily.This is because the plastic of the sheet or corrugated plastic, especially when made of polypropylene, has such a smooth surface structure that the folded container surfaces slide along each other with much less friction than with comparable transport containers made of corrugated cardboard or corrugated paperboard. Thus, the transport container according to the invention is extremely easy to erect and collapse, and at the same time can be transported back with reduced volume. This means that it can be transported flat with the wall, base, and lid elements completely horizontal, without damage or destruction and without unnecessary air gaps (except for those in the hollow chamber or dimpled structure areas), to a collection point integrated into a network, which expediently has a collection container equipped for insertion, or back to the mail-order company itself.

[0020] The economic rationale isn't self-evident. The world of transport containers in retail and many other areas is currently dominated by disposable transport vehicles. However, recycling is cheaper than manufacturing new transport containers, although this seemingly obvious principle is never applied in practice.

[0021] The advantage of the special material, which is preferably made of polypropylene, is that an empty transport container can be folded up in a matter of seconds. Coupled with the fact that this very flat folded transport container, with its container surfaces lying parallel to one another and in a horizontal plane, results in a transport size so suitable that a larger number of the empty transport containers can be returned (for example to collection points with wire mesh boxes or other collection containers for holding the empty container), which is not possible with disposable cardboard packaging or common transport containers made of non-corrugated polymer or plastic sheets or sheets without hollow chambers or without a knobbly structure, which are considerably heavier.Such a highly compressed return of the reusable transport container according to the invention is only possible because the corrugated plastic has such good folding properties, as described above. At the same time, due to the lightness of the transport container according to the invention, return transport is so convenient that the return is more cost-effective than manufacturing the product from scratch.

[0022] The collection points, which are part of a system and method according to the invention, are preferably equipped with collection containers into which several folded transport containers according to the invention can be placed, preferably folded together. The collection containers can be identified by QR codes, RFID, or serial numbers. This allows the system provider to perform asset tracking and asset control and, if necessary, to implement a preferably digital deposit system. The container pool is expediently digitally controlled, with both the deposit return and the monitoring and evaluation of the volume flow being digitally included.

[0023] Due to the advantageous design of the container according to the invention, the return can always be carried out manually and is extremely compatible with delivery vehicles.

[0024] Hollow core sheets with webs or a corrugated intermediate layer between two smooth outer layers, or alternatively, with multiple layers or dimpled panels as described above, particularly made of polypropylene, are a new type of environmentally friendly yet robust packaging material. Corrugated plastic, or Corriboards, are extruded single-wall or multi-wall plastic sheets, typically made of high-impact polypropylene resin and constructed similarly to corrugated cardboard. They are environmentally friendly, waterproof, non-toxic, durable, and recyclable. Corrugated plastic sheets, or hollow core sheets with webs or a corrugated intermediate layer (made of corrugated plastic) between two smooth outer layers, or alternatively, dimpled panels made of polypropylene, also offer high strength and are corrosion-resistant. They can endure long life cycles and be recycled many times.Both the price and durability are significantly better than corrugated cardboard, making this material a high-quality alternative to corrugated cardboard. Furthermore, it is lightweight, has good toughness, and can save costs by using less material per unit volume, making it a high-quality alternative to injection-molded boxes.

[0025] It should be noted that with the present invention, folding and unfolding is much easier and faster than with conventional transport containers, which is largely due to the material, particularly the corrugated plastic. This is especially true when polypropylene is used. It is also easy for the packer to pull the folded, reusable transport container according to the invention from the shelf and, with just one hand movement, return it to its final unfolded position, allowing the goods to be placed inside the box.

[0026] The selected material makes a significant contribution to the circular economy and decarbonization. At the same time, the costs per use are not increased compared to conventional disposable cardboard containers. Cycles of up to ten or more, even up to 20 or 30 cycles between seller and customer can be achieved with the reusable transport container according to the invention, while simultaneously facilitating easy return transport. In contrast to conventional disposable cardboard transport containers, this is a major advantage, as it not only saves money but also protects the environment. Because return transport is cheaper than manufacturing a new product, this reusable cycle is economically viable.

[0027] For the production of the reusable transport container, a hollow-wall sheet with webs (so-called hollow-wall sheets) or corrugated intermediate layers or a dimpled structure sheet, as described above, is preferably used, preferably made of polypropylene, which is punched into a blank (alternatively cut with a cutting plotter) and pre-folded into a semi-finished product. The alternative hollow-wall sheet or hollow-wall sheet with at least one corrugated intermediate layer with its corrugation, or the dimpled structure sheet, can advantageously be made of bio-based polymers or biodegradable polymers, as already mentioned above. The bio-based polymers can consist entirely or partially of renewable raw materials. Bio-based polymers are partly found in nature; they are obtained on an industrial scale from carbohydrates: sugar, starch, proteins, cellulose, lignins, fats, and vegetable oils.

[0028] Raw materials for bio-based plastics typically come from starch- and cellulose-rich plants such as corn or miscanthus, but sometimes also from oilseeds or wood. Biodegradable plastics can be made from thermoplastic starch, starch derivatives, cellulose, cellulose derivatives such as cellulose esters (CA) and cellulose butyrate (CAB), degradable polyesters, and polylactide (PLA). Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are also a group of materials worth mentioning. Blends are also common, for example, between PLA and degradable polyesters. These include, for example, bio-polyethylene.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the reusable transport container has a grammage in the range of between 150 and 1100 g / m 2 , preferably between 350 g / m 2 and 550 g / m 2 Although the basis weight (grammage) according to DIN EN ISO 536 usually expresses the weight of a paper or corrugated board grade, it is measured in g / m 2and plays an important role in determining the quality and cost calculation of corrugated cardboard. In this case, however, the grammage of the reusable transport container according to the invention corresponds to that of conventional corrugated cardboard. The basis weight of the reusable transport container according to the invention thus corresponds to that of conventional disposable transport containers made of corrugated cardboard and is just as light. This means there are no disadvantages during transport, neither a higher weight load for the parcel delivery service nor for the transport vehicle (fuel consumption).

[0030] Furthermore, for optimal advertising purposes, the reusable transport container can and should be provided with labels and prints. This is possible on all surfaces of the container. However, conventional labels and stickers often have the serious disadvantage that they cannot be easily removed. Instead, adhesive residue remains on the packaging or transport container, requiring the agent to rub the label for a minute or more to remove it, which is time-consuming and therefore costly. It is crucial that the removal of disposable or reusable labels or prints can be done manually and, if possible, automatically (by machine) as quickly as possible. At the same time, these labels must be easily washable.This is primarily to avoid unnecessary return costs due to the time wasted scraping off labels. The reusable transport container according to the invention advantageously comprises a carrier label, preferably designed as a silicone-coated label. The silicone-coated label has the advantage that disposable or reusable labels or other stickers can be removed very easily.

[0031] As an alternative to the silicone-coated label, it is of course possible to add a silicone-based additive or a similar additive to the corrugated plastic, bio-based polymer or biodegradable polymer, so that the sheet according to the invention made from this polymer has the same effect as the silicone-coated label itself.

[0032] In a further advantageous embodiment of the reusable transport container according to the invention, the base is formed from a first base section which is foldably connected to a first longitudinal side wall via a fold line and which, in the upright position of the container, rests on at least two, preferably three folding tabs which are preferably welded to one another on the base and which are each also foldably connected to the three remaining side walls via a fold line. In such a way that it forms more than % of the total area of ​​the base. Preferably, three of its sides abut the adjacent side walls. The length and width of these three sides are expediently dimensioned such that the first base section is clamped in a horizontal position between the adjacent side walls. This creates a clamping connection between the three sides and the abutting side walls.

[0033] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first base section has at least one first side flap which, when the transport container is unfolded, rests with its entire surface against the second longitudinal side wall opposite the first longitudinal side wall and extends essentially up to the height of the upper edge of the second longitudinal side wall, so that when the container is closed, the first side flap is limited in its upward play by at least one of the four lid sections in such a way that it is not possible to open the base from the underside of the box. The goods inside are thus protected from theft without the need for further securing of the base, for example with parcel tape, because it is not possible to reach into the interior of the container from below.Considering that the lids of conventional containers regularly have to be secured with parcel tape and that on the bottom side it is often only the weight of the goods inside that keeps an inner base section (unfolded, i.e. lying flat in a horizontal plane) pressed down onto an outer base section.

[0034] A second side flap can be provided on at least one of the broad sides of the first base section. When the transport container is unfolded, this second side flap protrudes from the base at a right angle, like the first side flap, and rests against one of the two end walls. This further strengthens the base when the container is unfolded. In the longitudinal direction of the container, the first base section therefore no longer exhibits any play when the transport container is unfolded. Consequently, the first base section sits firmly in its horizontal position in the container base.

[0035] In a further embodiment of the invention, a folding flap is provided on each of the end walls, which is connected to the upper edge of the end wall only via a fold line. In their horizontally folded position, both folding flaps form an intermediate floor for supporting a first lid section. This intermediate floor supports the at least one lid section located above it, and expediently also a second one.

[0036] The first lid section is expediently connected to the upper edge of the first longitudinal side wall via a single fold line. It has at least one handle element, which is preferably designed as an engagement hole. This is preferably located longitudinally midway in the region near the front free end. Particularly preferably, at least one first fastening means, preferably a locking lug, is provided on the edge of the free end of the first lid section. The handle element enables simple and quick opening by hand. The first fastening means and handle element are located close to one another so that the first fastening means can be released from its closed position described below with just one upward pull of the handle element.

[0037] A positioning section, preferably a groove-like recess, is preferably provided on at least one of the broad sides of the first lid section. This serves to form a stable, slip-proof lid arrangement, as described below.

[0038] In a further particular embodiment of the invention, the first fastening means, preferably the locking lug, engages in the horizontal folded position of the first lid section in a first, preferably slot-shaped recess formed in a fold line between the second longitudinal side wall and a second lid section connected to the upper edge of the second longitudinal side wall. This simple closure (tongue and groove closure) serves to secure the lid and simultaneously supports easy opening and closing of the lid assembly.

[0039] The second lid section expediently has at least one foldable side wing on at least one of its broad sides, preferably on both broad sides, which is particularly preferably formed adjacent to or close to the free end of the second lid section. If there are two wings per broad side, these are placed at the same position along the broad side, in particular complementary to the positioning section in the lid closed position. The side wing is rounded at its end pointing away from the broad side of the second lid section. It forms a semicircle shape that protrudes convexly outwards. This rounded shape enables easy sliding (almost frictionless) into a complementary second recess. This is expediently provided in the fold line between at least one of the end side walls and at least one folding flap hinged thereto and is preferably slot-shaped.

[0040] The at least one side wing of the second lid section expediently engages in the second, preferably slot-shaped recess when the container is unfolded and closed and at the same time comes to rest in a form-fitting manner on the positioning section, preferably in the groove-like recess. This engagement ensures that the second lid section is securely mounted in the longitudinal direction of the container. This significantly increases the stability of the transport container and thus also its shelf life and the number of cycles in the shipping cycle. In an advantageous embodiment according to the invention, the length and width dimensions of the first lid section correspond to the base area of ​​the container, and the length and width dimensions of the second lid section correspond to the length of the base area of ​​the container, and the width dimensions correspond to at least half the width of the base area of ​​the container.The second lid section is preferably always shorter than the overall width of the transport container. Advantageously, the width of the second lid section 1 corresponds to up to 7 / 8 of the width of the transport container. These dimensions allow easy manual access to the longitudinal opening formed between the first and second lid sections, preferably across the entire length of the container, when the lid is closed. Furthermore, parcel adhesive tape or other seals can be cut more easily than if they are glued over the top corner edge of a parcel with the lid folded closed. The resulting longitudinal opening ensures non-destructive opening of the transport container.

[0041] The dimensions of the transport container according to the invention correspond to those of conventional cardboard boxes for transporting goods in mail order. However, the strength of the reusable transport container and the protective function for the goods inside are better than those of conventional cardboard boxes. Due to the material, particularly the polypropylene, it achieves greater strength than corrugated cardboard or corrugated board. At the same time, moisture cannot penetrate into the interior of the packaging, but instead beads off the surface.

[0042] As already explained above, the erection and folding of the transport container according to the invention is possible in a very short time, both for the consumer and for the order picking employee, as well as for the packing line in industry in the case of original packaging being passed through, for example shoe boxes from industry via order picking warehouse without opening to the consumer or even pharmaceuticals.

[0043] A blank for producing a reusable transport container is also claimed. The blank forms four side walls, in particular two longitudinal and two end side walls, four base sections, and four lid sections. One base section is connected to the lower edge of each of the four side walls via a fold line. One lid section is connected to the upper edge of each of the four side walls. According to the invention, the blank, which is preferably punched from a hollow-wall panel or hollow-wall panel with a corrugated intermediate layer or dimpled structure panel, as described above, forms a first base section that essentially has the size and shape of the container base area. This first base section forms a first side flap on its side opposite the fold line to the hinged side wall, which is connected to the first base section via a fold line.Preferably, the side flap is shaped as described above with regard to the reusable transport container according to the invention. Furthermore, the blank is shaped according to the further features of the above description for the reusable transport container.

[0044] Feature group 1

[0045] A system for the production of reusable transport containers from hollow-wall sheets or dimpled-structure sheets, preferably from polypropylene hollow-wall sheets or polypropylene hollow-wall sheets with at least one corrugated intermediate layer or polypropylene dimpled-structure sheets, as described above, the return and reintroduction of empty reusable transport containers into the shipping cycle, and for the recycling of returned defective reusable transport containers, such as those used in particular for the transport of goods in mail order. For this purpose, the system expediently comprises several upstream active and / or passive collection points with collection containers (having QR codes, RFID, or serial numbers) for accepting the reusable transport containers returned by the end customer, as well as a processing device for the returned reusable transport containers at a final collection point.The system thus comprises a plurality of spatially spaced upstream active and / or passive collection points and at least one processing device at a final collection point, which is equipped with a sorting device and a shredding device for the reusable transport containers. The sorting device expediently comprises means for the automated detection of defective containers, preferably imaging methods. As soon as a defect is detected, the container is sorted out for the recycling process. The shredding device expediently comprises means for mechanical shredding and is equipped to shred the reusable transport containers into different material sizes. The sorted containers are expediently fed to the shredding device after the sorting station, whereby the feed can take place via a conveyor belt.The processing device advantageously comprises means for mechanically separating and / or separating components present on the reusable transport container, such as labels, stickers, and the like. The processing device may further comprise a washing and cleaning device and / or quality control means and / or a granulation device for producing granules from the ground material or flakes of the hollow-core board or dimpled-structure board.

[0046] Feature group 2

[0047] The invention comprises both a method for producing the reusable transport containers according to the invention - for the transport of goods in mail order - from hollow chamber sheets or dimpled structure sheets, preferably from polypropylene hollow chamber sheets or polypropylene dimpled structure sheets according to the invention, as well as a method for returning and reintroducing empty reusable transport containers according to the invention into the shipping cycle and for recycling returned damaged reusable transport containers according to the invention.

[0048] The manufacturing process advantageously comprises the following process steps:

[0049] 1. Production of a hollow-wall sheet or hollow-wall sheet with at least one wave-shaped intermediate layer between two outer layers or a dimpled structure sheet, preferably made of polypropylene, biodegradable or bio-based polymer and

[0050] 2. Punching a predetermined blank from the sheet and pre-folding all defined fold lines for easy folding by the recipient into a reusable transport container, which is preferably designed according to the features described above. Furthermore, the use of the folded or unfolded reusable transport container is claimed, wherein the use occurs in multiple shipping cycles, with active and / or passive collection points according to the above system, preferably in up to approximately 10 to 50, particularly preferably 15 to 30, and especially 25 cycles.

[0051] The return procedure advantageously includes the following procedural steps:

[0052] 1. Automated or manual sorting and separation of returned reusable transport containers into defective and non-defective reusable transport containers, preferably by means of automated imaging processes, preferably via a conveyor belt;

[0053] 2. Reintroduction of non-defective reusable transport containers into the shipping cycle, and

[0054] 3. Recycling of defective reusable transport containers at the final collection point.

[0055] The return process is further characterized by the creation of a comprehensive network of decentralized collection points in a region, delivery of reusable (non-defective) or damaged (defective) reusable transport containers to the collection points by end users, periodic visits to the collection points by at least one transport vehicle for return to the final collection point and sorting into returnable and non-returnable reusable transport containers, whereby the transport containers that cannot be returned to the shipping cycle are fed to a processing device with a shredding device by means of which the reusable transport containers are shredded into different grinding material sizes.The processing device at the final collection point expediently comprises means for mechanically comminuting and / or separating and / or separating components present on the reusable transport container, such as labels, stickers, and the like, or for producing flakes from the hollow-core sheet or dimpled-structure sheet. The processing device can further be equipped with a washing and cleaning device and / or quality control means and / or a granulation device for producing granules from the ground material or flakes of the above-described hollow-core sheet or dimpled-structure sheet according to the invention.

[0056] The transport containers can be conveniently provided with an individual barcode during production for unique identification. The supplier can then report all barcodes per pallet to determine which transport containers are sent to which retailer. The data for the boxes is stored in a system. If a transport container is later returned to the manufacturer by the end customer, the circulation can be easily recorded and evaluated statistically.

[0057] Mail-order companies can conveniently order new packaging from the manufacturer via email or telephone. Based on this, a sales order for the respective boxes (sizes / characteristics) is created in a system. A delivery note can be generated from the order, and the goods can be prepared and shipped. The individual barcodes of the transport containers are recorded in the outgoing goods area and stored in the system in a suitable location. In the case of a delivery from a production facility, the producer provides the barcodes and the customer who received the boxes. This information can then be noted on the delivery note and is available for later evaluation. Rent and deposit can then be invoiced for the boxes (invoicing from deliveries and services).

[0058] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the system and method, the end customer can select the reusable transport container according to the invention and add it to their order or goods order by selecting "reusable" (with a digital plug-in solution) or by selecting "shipping type" reusable transport container, or by selecting "item selection" reusable transport container. The order or goods order is picked and packed in the reusable transport container at a packing station. The packed reusable transport container is then sealed like a conventional parcel, and the shipping label is applied, preferably to a carrier label, which is particularly preferably a silicone-coated carrier label. The parcel is then handed over to the freight forwarder for delivery, and the end customer is charged a deposit (possibly also additional costs for reusable items).The reusable transport container is then delivered to the end customer.

[0059] In a further system component or alternative step of the return process for the two feature groups 1 or 2 above, the return of the reusable transport container can be done in two ways: via a so-called "passive collection point" using a return box, or via an "active collection point" that immediately refunds a deposit and from which the manufacturer collects the reusable transport containers themselves. The return takes place at the passive collection point using the return box and an end-customer app.

[0060] With a passive collection point, the end customer preferably selects a nearby or suitable return point in the system themselves. An app (web app) can also call up navigation based on their location and destination. The end customer then visits the return location and scans the return box and the reusable transport container. The end customer then deposits the reusable transport container into the return container or box. The container number of the return box is entered into a blocking list. This prevents the returned reusable transport containers from being scanned multiple times for deposit payment. This process can be used to pay out the deposit amount to the end customer immediately. However, it could also be possible for no deposit to be paid out at this point, but only when the reusable transport containers are physically collected at a service facility. This should be configurable.This process step must also trigger email communication with the end customer.

[0061] At the active collection point, the end customer returns the empty reusable transport container, preferably via a door-to-door delivery service (door return) or alternatively at a participating location, such as a kiosk, which pays the customer the deposit and from which the manufacturer collects the containers. At the active collection point, the customer can hand over the reusable transport container directly to an affiliated service provider, such as a door-to-door delivery service or another participating location. The customer receives a deposit refund from the affiliated service provider directly as a voucher, or credited towards their next purchase. The reusable transport containers are collected in the respective warehouses (dark stores) of the affiliated service providers and, after notification to the manufacturer, are picked up by a disposal partner. This is conveniently done based on a collection order, which is an ordering process.The reusable transport containers are then scanned by a return partner in the receiving department, and the inventory is recorded in a separate system. The service provider receives a refund of the deposit, plus, preferably, a handling fee.

[0062] The alternative process involves the customer conveniently dropping off the reusable transport container at a designated return point. The return point advantageously pays a deposit. The return point collects the reusable transport containers and, when a certain threshold is reached, notifies the manufacturer of the reusable transport containers. The manufacturer collects the collected reusable transport containers and refunds the collection point at least the deposit.

[0063] The return of filled collection containers (return boxes) to the manufacturer's service center is conveniently carried out based on scan data in the web app. This app determines the fill level of the return boxes based on the scan data, preferably from the end customer (as described above). If a threshold of, for example, 25 reusable transport containers is exceeded, the return box is marked for collection and a collection order is created for the return partner. This notification can also be sent manually to the manufacturer by the operator of the collection point. In this case, a manual return order is created in the dispatch system, and the return box is subsequently picked up and taken to the manufacturer's service center.

[0064] At the service center at the final collection point, the return box or collection container is emptied and the reusable transport containers are scanned. The condition of the reusable transport containers is then recorded. A distinction is made between "green" = reuse and "red" = special treatment. Special treatment can range from special cleaning to breakage and the need for recycling. Boxes with a green check mark are added to the available inventory and, after reprocessing, can be delivered to an end customer or mail-order company.

[0065] The processing device can expediently comprise, in addition to a comminution device as described above, a washing and cleaning device and / or quality control means and / or a granulate forming device for producing granulate from the ground material or the flakes of the hollow chamber plate or dimpled structure plate according to the invention described above.

[0066] The reusable transport container in question, with its features described above, is part of the system, use and procedures.

[0067] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, in which

[0068] Fig. 1A is a plan view of the transport container in the open state,

[0069] Fig. 1 B is a further perspective top view of the transport container in the open state,

[0070] Fig. 2A a bottom view of the transport container with the side walls unfolded and the lid open,

[0071] Fig. 2B is a plan view of the bottom of the transport container with the container bottom slightly folded inwards,

[0072] Fig. 3A is a plan view of a first longitudinal side wall and an end wall of the transport container adjacent thereto to the right, with a first lid section hinged to the first longitudinal side wall and a third lid section hinged to the end wall, Fig. 3B is a plan view of the second longitudinal side wall with a hinged second lid section and a second end wall with a fourth lid section hinged thereto, which is designed as a folding flap,

[0073] Fig. 4 shows a blank of the transport container according to a first embodiment,

[0074] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the transport container in assembled condition with closed lid sections for transporting goods,

[0075] Fig. 6 a retrieval procedure.

[0076] A reusable transport container 1 according to the invention in the open state is shown in Figure 1A. The interior is shown.

[0077] The reusable transport container 1 comprises a base 2 and four circumferentially arranged side walls 3, 4, 5, 6, each of which has a lid section 7, 8, 9, 10 arranged thereon. The plan view shows a first base section 12, which is hinged to a first longitudinal side wall 3 in a foldable manner via a first fold line 13. On the side of the first base section 12 opposite the first fold line 13, a first side flap 17 is hinged to a foldable manner via a second fold line 17'. In this embodiment, the area of ​​the first base section 12 is smaller than the base area 39 of the transport container 1. One long side of the first base section 12 has a length that is shorter than the length of the long side walls 3, 4, 5, 6. This long side, that is the one at the second fold line 17', has a length that is greater than half the length of the long side walls, preferably three-quarters of the length of the long side walls.From the shortened end of the long side, the wide side 17" recedes diagonally to the corner formed between the opposite long side wall 3' and the adjacent end wall 6. This special design enables the container base 2 to be folded very quickly in just one step, namely by pressing inwards with one hand from the underside of the container base 2 in the center of the base when the transport container 1 is open and the lid is open, from the side walls. The transport container 1 here has a first long side wall 3 and a second long side wall 4 as well as two end walls 5, 6. A first lid section 7 is hinged to the first long side wall 3 via a fold line. A second lid section 8 is hinged to the second long side wall 4 via a fold line 32.A further lid section 9, 10 is located on each of the first end wall 3 and the second end wall 4, whereby these two further lid sections 9, 10 are designed as folding tabs. In the horizontally folded position, these form an intermediate floor for supporting the first lid section 7. A locking lug 27 is clearly visible on the free end of the first lid section 26. When the transport container 1 is closed, this locking lug 27 engages in a first slot-shaped recess 27' which is formed centrally on the fold line 32 between the second longitudinal side wall 4 and the second lid section 8. For the final closing of the transport container for the transport of goods, the second lid section 8 is folded over the first lid section 7 so that this second lid section 8 comes to rest on the first lid section 7.In addition to the first closure element, namely the locking lug 27 of the first lid section 7, a further closure element is provided on the second lid section 8 in the form of foldable side wings 36. In the embodiment shown, two side wings, one of each, are arranged on a broad side 34 35 of the second lid section 8, specifically towards the open end 37, so that a flush finish is achieved with the free long side of the second lid section 8. When the lid arrangement is closed, the second lid section 8 overlaps the first lid section 7 over at least half of the container's broad side, with the side wings 36 engaging in second, preferably slot-shaped recesses 38 provided in the fold line between the folding flap 9, 10 and the end wall 5, 6.At the same time, when the lid is closed, the side wings lie in the region of their fold line, which is formed between the wings and the second lid section 8, in a form-fitting manner in a groove-like recess 31, which serves to firmly position the second lid section 8 in its closed position and which is formed in the first lid section 7. The length of the groove-like recess 31 along the broad side of the first lid section 7 corresponds to the length of the fold line formed between the side wings 36 and the second lid section 8. This firmly anchors the side wing 36 via the groove-like recess 31 in the second recess 38, so that the lid of the transport container 1 is very securely closed overall. The upper second lid section 8 is usually secured to the underlying first lid section 7 by means of a seal (e.g. a round sticker).Since the upper lid section 8 only takes up approximately half the width of the container, when opening the seal one advantageously does not cut into the longitudinal opening which is usually formed between the container side wall and the lid at the upper container edge, but into the easily accessible (since located at the top of the container) engagement opening or longitudinal opening D (see Fig. 5) formed between the upper second lid section 8 and the lower first lid section 7, which extends in the longitudinal direction, preferably over the entire length up to the clamped side wings 36. At the same time, due to these size ratios, a much easier engagement between the first and second lid sections 7, 8 is possible.

[0078] The first lid section 7, together with the third and fourth lid sections 9, 10, forms the basis for supporting the second lid section 8 when folded over.

[0079] Figure 1B shows a perspective top view of the reusable transport container 1 shown in Figure 1A. It should be noted that the first lid section 7 has an engagement hole 25 that is arranged in the middle of the long side in the area of ​​the free end 26 of the lid section. It is thus located, from the right to the left side of the sheet, below the outwardly projecting locking lug 27. Between the locking lug 27 and the engagement hole 25 there is a web-like area of ​​the first lid section 7. The placement of the engagement hole 25 at this point makes it possible for the index finger to reach into the engagement hole from the outside and for the locking lug 27 to be easily released from its locking position in the first recess 27'. The special material of the reusable transport container 1, which is identified by the reference symbol X in Fig. 1A, is clearly visible.The material is a hollow-wall sheet or a hollow-wall sheet with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers, preferably made of polypropylene, which has the same appearance as corrugated cardboard (here single-wall). The partially visible corrugations also indicate that the sheet is made of two polymer outer layers that form a hollow space between them, which in turn is perforated by web-like connections, as shown here, or alternatively single-wall connections, between the two layers, as in single-wall corrugated cardboard. In this case, the material is made of synthetic or semi-synthetic plastic polymer. Alternatively, bio-based polymers or biodegradable polymers can be used, but are not shown here.The single-wall intermediate layer is bonded on both sides to a smooth plastic layer (outer layer), particularly by welding or bonding, to create a so-called single-wall corrugated sheet made of plastic, preferably polypropylene. Of course, the use of double-wall or triple-wall hollow-core sheets is also possible.

[0080] Figure 2A shows a bottom view of the transport container with four upright side walls 3-6 and four lid sections 7-10 folded outwards. In addition to the first bottom section 7, three bottom folding flaps 14, 15, 16 are visible, the cut of which is shown in Figure 4A. The first and third bottom folding flaps 14, 16 are preferably trapezoidal in shape, with an additional side flap 40, 41 being provided on each of the diagonals. The side flap 40 of the first folding flap 14 is welded to the underside of the second folding flap 15, and the side flap 41 of the third folding flap 16 is welded to the underside of the first bottom section 12. A folding point C is marked in the area between the opposite ends of the folding flaps 16 and 14. If the base 2 is pressed inward from the outside in the central area of ​​the base, this area is folded inward. The so-called "base fold" on the base side is clearly visible."Access slot" C, which in the case of the transport container packed ready for dispatch is closed on the inside by the first base section 12 in a tamper-proof manner, in that the first base section 12 is pressed from the inside onto the base folding flaps and held in its horizontal position by the limited play of the inner first side flap 17, which is restricted in its vertical movement by the lid sections when the transport container is closed.

[0081] Also shown is a preferably silicone-coated carrier label 11 that is adhered to the outer side of the second lid section 8. This carrier label, also referred to as a carrier label, enables the sender of the goods to adhere an additional label to this carrier label, which can be easily removed for later reuse of the transport container. For example, the mail order company can print the recipient's address on a label and adhere this label to the carrier label 11. The recipient, in turn, can simply peel off this label and, if the goods are returned, adhere a new label to the carrier label 11. This clearly offers a major advantage, as it eliminates the need to spend a lot of time scraping off the recipient's label.

[0082] Figure 2B shows a bottom view of the transport container, with the side walls unfolded and the lid sections folded downwards essentially vertically in a partially folded position. Clearly visible are the crease or fold lines formed between the first bottom folding flap 14 and the side flap 40 arranged on a diagonal side, and the third bottom folding flap 16 with the side flap 41, also arranged on a diagonal side. These fold lines are bent inwards, so that all bottom sections are folded slightly diagonally inwards into the interior of the container. The central access opening, formed by the access slot C and protruding inwards through the bottom 2, is clearly visible. At this point, pressure is applied by hand from the outside to the inside.The transport container 1 according to the invention is very quickly converted into its folded state, with only one movement and in an extremely short time due to the special material which has an extremely smooth surface structure.

[0083] Figure 3A shows a folded container 1, with a top view of the first lid section 7, the first longitudinal side wall 3, the third lid section 9, and the first end wall 5. The third lid section 9 has a concave recess at its upper right corner, which is also formed complementarily thereto in the fourth lid section 10 (shown in Figure 3B). Due to this recess, the intermediate floor formed by the third and fourth lid sections 9, 10 can be more easily reached through with one hand, and the folding tabs formed by the third and fourth lid sections can be folded up when the container 1 is to be emptied.

[0084] Fig. 3B shows the other side of the container 1 in the folded state. The second longitudinal side wall 4 and the second end wall 6 lie flat on the opposite side walls (first longitudinal side wall and first end wall), with the base sections folded inwards in between them (not visible as in Fig. 3A). The lid sections 8, 10 point upwards when unfolded, with the second lid section 8 and the fourth lid section 10 lying above the first 7 and third lid sections 8. In Fig. 3B, part of the first side flap 17, which is arranged on the inside of the first base section 12, is visible.

[0085] Figure 4 shows a blank of a first embodiment of the reusable transport container 1 according to the invention. The figure shows an interior view of the blank as an unwelded blank, designed as a semi-finished product. Reference symbol A denotes a flow direction, which is intended to support the detailed description of the blank below.

[0086] The blank in Figure 4 has dimensions of 390 x 72 x 100 mm (L x W x H) and corresponds approximately to a container size M. It goes without saying that these dimensions are purely exemplary. The thickness of the hollow-core sheet or an alternative dimpled-structure sheet in this case is advantageously 2.5 mm. The grammage is 550 g / m. 2Naturally, the thickness is essentially the same as that of conventional corrugated cardboard used for shipping purposes. The thickness of the boards can be larger or smaller, but is preferably between 2 and 6 mm.

[0087] In a plan view of the sheet side from right to left in the direction of travel A, the first lid section 7 is shown first, the free upper end 26 of which has a locking lug 27 in the middle of the long side, which projects outwards from the first lid section 7. The locking lug 27 here preferably has a trapezoidal shape, but this is not absolutely necessary. Below, near the locking lug, there is an engagement hole 25 in the first lid section 7, which is provided for the passage of a finger in order to open the first lid section 7 of a closed transport container 1. The first lid section 7 is connected to the long side opposite the free end 26 at a first long side wall 3 via a bend or fold line, around which the first lid section 7 and the first long side wall 3 can be folded. The fold line runs horizontally here.The first base section 12 is arranged via a fold line on the lower longitudinal side of the first longitudinal side wall 3. At the free longitudinal side end of the first base section 12, the first side flap 17 is in turn arranged via a fold line. A second side flap 19 is also shown. In the direction of travel A, next to the first longitudinal side wall 3, an end wall 6, here the second end wall, is connected via a vertical fold line. A folding flap 10 is arranged on the upper longitudinal side and a third bottom folding flap 14, which has a trapezoidal shape, is arranged on the lower longitudinal side, wherein an additional side flap 40 or a corner flap is formed on one of the diagonal flaps, which in turn is preferably welded to the underside of the first base section 12 to produce the finished product.

[0088] The blank is punched from a hollow-core panel, alternatively from a dimpled structure panel, and forms a semi-finished product. To manufacture the final product, the fold lines are pre-folded and the connecting elements 40, 41 are welded to the respective adjacent wall surfaces. Adjacent to the second end wall 6 in the direction of travel A, the second longitudinal side wall 4 is connected via a vertical fold line. The second lid section 8 is hinged to its upper longitudinal side via a fold line, with the first, preferably slot-shaped recess 27' for engagement of the locking lug 27 in the lid closure position being shown in the center of the longitudinal side. A second bottom-side folding tab 15 is provided on the lower longitudinal side of the second longitudinal side wall 4, which has no additional corner tabs. Adjacent to the second longitudinal side wall 4, the first end wall 5 is connected to the second longitudinal side wall 4 in the direction of travel A via a vertical fold line.A folding flap 9 is hinged to the upper longitudinal side, again via a fold line. A second, preferably slot-shaped recess 38 is formed between the folding flap 9 and the first end wall 5.

[0089] On the second lid section 8, there are two side wings 36, each of which protrudes laterally from the broad side 34, 35, or more precisely, from the upper end of the broad side. These side wings 36 are connected to the remaining surface of the second lid section 8 via a fold line.

[0090] On the lower longitudinal side of the first end wall 5, a trapezoidal bottom flap 16 is again formed with an additional corner flap 41 on one of the diagonals, which in turn is welded to the underside or outer side of the second bottom section 12.

[0091] Alternative cuts are possible for smaller or larger sizes of a second reusable transport container according to the invention.

[0092] It should be noted that the entire transport container 1 is constructed in one piece, and all sections are made of the same material. The individual container sections are connected to each other via foldable fold lines. In the unwelded state, the base sections can be folded in both directions; otherwise, only toward the interior of the container.

[0093] Figure 5 shows the reusable transport container 1 according to the invention of the first embodiment in the closed state for transporting goods. The first lid section 7, which is only partially visible, has a surface area corresponding to the base area of ​​the container 1. Arranged above this is the second lid section 8, which has a length L corresponding to the side wall length. The carrier label 11 is also visibly attached to the second lid section 8. Both the side wings 36 and the locking lug 27 are inserted into the slot-shaped recesses 27", 38 provided for them, with the side wings 36 simultaneously being snugly positioned in the groove-like recess 31 with a form fit. The length of the wide sides 34, 35 corresponds approximately to one half, preferably three-quarters of the wide side of the end wall. The preferably silicone-coated carrier label 11 is clearly visible and attached to the second lid section 8.

[0094] It should be clarified that, according to the invention, the container surfaces adjacent to the fold lines can be folded or hinged in both folding directions. The fold lines have been shown with dashed lines throughout.

[0095] It also goes without saying that the insertion openings 27", 38, ie the preferably slot-shaped recesses and positioning sections 31, preferably the groove-like recesses, are precisely matched in their shape and size to the insertion elements, ie locking lug 27 and side wings 36 for a snug fit.

[0096] Figure 6 shows a return procedure according to the invention. Flow arrows are shown, representing the paths to and from the individual stations. Flow 42 shows the path of a reusable transport container according to the invention from the end customer to the mail-order company when they return goods (returns), e.g., because the color or size of the ordered clothing does not fit. Flow 43 shows a deposit flow, namely the refund of a deposit for the returned container (return). In flow 44, the end customer returns the goods themselves without mailing to an active collection point. There, they scan the transport container and the collection container (two scans). Only then do they receive a deposit back, preferably in cash in this case. This is represented by flow 45 (deposit flow). Flow 46 represents the deposit refund from the manufacturer to the operator of the active collection point once the manufacturer has collected the reusable transport containers.In flow 47, the end customer deposits the reusable transport container into a return box, collection container, or similar device. They scan the reusable transport container (initial scan) as well as the return box, collection container, or similar device. When the collection container is scanned (secondary scan), it is blocked and entered into a blocking list, preventing a double deposit return if multiple scans are performed in the initial scan. The deposit is paid out to the end customer, as shown in flow 48. The collection container is picked up from the passive collection point without a deposit being released and is shown in flow 49. However, the manufacturer then removes the container from the blocking list so that it can be returned to circulation. Reference symbol list.

[0097] 1 reusable transport container (1)

[0098] 2 floor

[0099] 3 First long side wall

[0100] 4 Second long side wall

[0101] 5 first end wall

[0102] 6 second end wall

[0103] 7 First lid section

[0104] 8 Second lid section

[0105] 9 Folding flap / third lid section

[0106] 10 Folding flap / fourth lid section

[0107] 11 Carrier label

[0108] 12 First floor section

[0109] 13 Fold line

[0110] 14 first bottom folding flap

[0111] 15 second bottom folding flap

[0112] 16 third bottom folding flap

[0113] 17 First side flap

[0114] 18 Upper edge of the second longitudinal side wall

[0115] 19 Second side flap

[0116] 20 Upper edge of the front wall

[0117] 21 Upper edge of the front wall

[0118] 22 intermediate floor

[0119] 23 Fold line

[0120] 24 upper edge of the first long side wall

[0121] 25 handle element

[0122] 26 front free end of the first cover section

[0123] 27 Fasteners

[0124] 27' first recess

[0125] 28 front edge of the first cover section

[0126] 29 Broadside of the first lid section

[0127] 30 Broadside of the first cover section

[0128] 31 Positioning section

[0129] 32 Fold line upper edge of the second long side wall wide side of the second lid section wide side of the second lid section side wing free end of the second lid section second recess base area of ​​the container side flap of the first folding flap side flap of the third folding flap

Claims

Patent claims 1. Reusable transport container (1) for the transport and storage of objects and for repeated return to the shipping cycle, comprising a foldable container (1) with a base (2) and four circumferentially arranged side walls (3, 4, 5, 6), to each of which a lid section (7, 8, 9, 10) is foldably hinged, characterized in that the transport container (1) is formed from a hollow-chamber web plate or hollow-chamber plate with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers or a knob-structure plate.

2. Reusable transport container (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the hollow-walled sheet or hollow-wall sheet with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers or knob-structured sheet is formed from a synthetically or semi-synthetically produced polymer, preferably a corrugated plastic, in particular a corrugated plastic sheet made of polypropylene, alternatively from a bio-based polymer, a biodegradable polymer or a combination of the aforementioned polymers.

3. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the transport container (1) has a grammage in the range between 350 g / m2 and 550 g / m2.

4. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the transport container (1) comprises a carrier label (11), preferably a silicone-coated label.

5. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the base (2) is formed from a first base section (12) which is foldably connected to a first longitudinal side wall (3) via a fold line (13) and which rests on at least two, preferably three or more base-side folding tabs (14, 15, 16), which are connected to the three remaining side walls via a fold line (14', 15', 16'), in the upright position of the container (1) in such a way that it forms more than % of the total area of ​​the base (2), preferably abuts with three of its sides against the adjacent side walls (4, 5, 6).

6. Reusable transport container (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the first base section (12) has at least one first side flap (17) which, in the unfolded state of the transport container (1), rests with its entire surface on the second longitudinal side wall (4) opposite the first longitudinal side wall (3) and extends substantially up to the height of the upper edge (18) of the second longitudinal side wall (4), so that when the container (1) is closed, the first side flap (17) is limited in its upward play in such a way that it is not possible to open the base (2) from the underside of the container (1).

7. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of the preceding claims 5 to 6, characterized in that a second side flap (19) is provided on at least one of the broad sides of the first base section (12), which second side flap (19) comes to lie at a right angle to one of the two end walls (5, 6) in the unfolded state of the transport container and thus additionally strengthens the base (2) when the container (1) is in the unfolded state.

8. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a folding flap (9, 10) is provided on each of the end walls (5, 6), which is connected to the upper edge (20, 21) of the end wall (5, 6) via a fold line (9', 10'), and both folding flaps (9, 10) form an intermediate floor 22 for supporting a first lid section (7) in the horizontal folding position.

9. Reusable transport container (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the first lid section (7) is connected to the upper edge (24) of the first longitudinal side wall (3) via a fold line (23) and has at least one handle element (25), preferably an engagement hole, which is preferably located longitudinally centrally in the region near the frontal free end (26) and particularly preferably at least one fastening means (27), preferably a locking lug, which is provided on the frontal edge (28) of the first lid section (7).

10. Reusable transport container (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that a positioning section (31), preferably a groove-like recess, is provided on at least one of the broad sides (29, 30) of the first lid section (7).

11. Reusable transport container (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the fastening means (27), preferably the locking lug, engages in the horizontal folding position of the first lid section (7) in a first, preferably slot-shaped recess (27') which is formed in a fold line (32) between the second longitudinal side wall and a second lid section (8) which is connected to the upper edge (33) of the second longitudinal side wall (4).

12. Reusable transport container (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the second lid section (8) has on at least one of its broad sides (34, 35), preferably on both broad sides, at least one engagement element, preferably a foldable side wing (36), which is particularly preferably formed adjacent to or near the free end (37) of the second lid section (8).

13. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of the preceding claims 8 to 12, characterized in that a second, preferably slot-shaped recess (38) is provided in the fold line between at least one of the end walls and at least one folding flap hinged thereto.

14. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of the preceding claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the at least one side wing of the second lid section engages in the second recess (38) in the unfolded and closed state of the container (1) and comes to rest in a form-fitting manner on the positioning section, preferably the groove-like recess.

15. Reusable transport container (1) according to one of the preceding claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the first lid section corresponds in its length and width dimensions (L, B) to the base area (39) of the container (1) and the second lid section corresponds in its length dimension to the length of the base area of ​​the container (1) and in its width dimension to at least half the width of the base area (39).

16. Blank for producing a reusable transport container (1), wherein the blank comprises four side walls, in particular two longitudinal and two end walls, four base sections and four lid sections, in each case a base section is connected to the lower edge of each of the four side walls via a fold line, in each case a lid section is connected to the upper edge of each of the four side walls, characterized in that the blank, which is preferably punched from a hollow chamber plate or knobbly structure plate, has a first base section (12) which essentially has the size and shape of the container base area and which has, on its side opposite the fold line to the hinged side wall, a first side flap (17) which is connected to the first base section (12) via a fold line.

17. System for the production of reusable transport containers (1) from a hollow-wall sheet or a hollow-wall sheet with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers or from a dimpled structure sheet, preferably from polypropylene hollow-wall sheets or polypropylene dimpled structure sheets, the return and reintroduction of empty reusable transport containers (1) into the shipping cycle and for the recycling of returned defective reusable transport containers, as used in particular for the transport of goods in mail order, characterized in that the system comprises several upstream active and / or passive collection points with collection containers, preferably having QR codes, RFID or serial numbers, for accepting the reusable transport containers (1) returned by the end customer, as well as a processing device for the returned reusable transport containers (1) at a final collection point,which is provided with a sorting device and a comminution device for the reusable transport containers (1), wherein the sorting device has means for the automated detection of defective containers, preferably imaging methods, and automatically feeds defective containers to a recycling process, wherein the comminution device has means for mechanical comminution and is equipped for comminuting the reusable transport containers (1) into different grinding material sizes., 18. System according to claim 17, characterized in that the processing device has means for mechanically separating and / or for separating components present on the reusable transport container (1), such as labels, stickers and the like, and further preferably a washing and cleaning device and / or quality control means and / or a granulate forming device for producing granulate from the ground material or the flakes of the comminuted hollow-core web sheets or hollow-core sheets with at least one corrugated intermediate layer between two outer layers or dimpled structure plate.

19. Method for the return of reusable transport containers (1), comprising the following process steps:

1. Automated or manual sorting and separation of returned reusable transport containers (1) into defective and non-defective reusable transport containers (1), preferably by means of automated imaging processes, preferably via a conveyor belt, 2. Reintroduction of non-defective reusable transport containers (1) into the shipping cycle, and 3. Recycling of defective reusable transport containers (1) at the final collection point.

20. Method according to claim 19, characterized in that the return of the filled collection containers to the final collection point is carried out on the basis of preferably double scans, particularly preferably manually generated by means of a scanning device, in a software-based application which determines a fill level of the collection containers on the basis of scanned data and, if a threshold value of the fill level of between 10 and 100, preferably between 20 and 40, particularly preferably 25 reusable transport containers (1) is exceeded, is marked for collection.

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