SLC Inlays – The Optimal Solution for Transport and Storage
Small Load Carriers (SLCs) are widely used as transport and storage containers across various industries. Their functionality is enhanced by SLC Inlays, which protect delicate components, improve organization, and simplify handling. Learn more in this article.
Sarah Guaglianone
Updated on August 7, 2026
Share
Contents
SLC inserts for transport and storage – Key facts at a glance
SLCs (small load carriers) are standardised, stackable plastic containers designed for the safe transport and storage of small parts, and are compatible with automated systems.
SLC inserts secure components, prevent damage, provide ESD protection and organise the interior for more efficient processes.
SLC inserts are used across a range of industries (automotive, electronics, medical, food) and enhance protection, organisation and efficiency in storage and transport.
Small load carriers (SLCs) are standardised plastic containers used in logistics and manufacturing for the safe storage and transport of small parts. They are robust, stackable and compatible with automated storage systems. In short: SLC containers or other Euro boxes simplify every logistics process.
Different types of SLC
R-SLC (Returnable Small Load Carrier) – A sturdy container with a reinforced base, suitable for heavy loads and automated systems.
E-SLC (Ergonomic Small Load Carrier) – Featuring special handles for easier manual handling.
RL-SLC (Returnable Lightweight SLC) – A lighter version of the R-SLC for applications with lower load requirements.
SLC inserts: A secure and structured solution for small load carriers
Euronorm containers are often already in use, but problems arise when components are transported in bulk and become damaged. To prevent this, suitable SLC inserts are required to ensure component safety.
ℹ️ In our online shop, you can choose from 200 different SLC inserts designed to fit standard outer container sizes.
What are SLC inserts?
SLC inserts and Inlays are custom-made container inserts, specially developed for SLCs and Euro-norm containers using the Plastic thermoforming process. They ensure the organised, secure storage of components or parts that must not be handled as bulk goods. Container inserts can be used for any components, provided they fit into the recesses of the insert.
Advantages of SLC inserts
Container liners offer numerous advantages in transport and warehousing. These include:
Perfect protection for components
Delicate components require special protection. Thanks to their precise fit, SLC inserts provide optimum support and prevent components from coming into contact with one another or being damaged by movement.
More efficient processes
The use of container inserts simplifies handling in production and logistics. SLC inserts divide the interior into compartments for different components. The clear organisation of components within the SLCs speeds up order picking and assembly, resulting in more efficient processes.
Protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD)
For electronic components, ESD-Inserts can be used to protect them from electrostatic discharge. ESD-Protection is particularly essential in the electronics and automotive industries.
Efficient use of space
The precise arrangement of the container inserts ensures that the available space in small load carriers and Euro containers is used to the full.
Typical applications for SLC inserts
SLC inserts are used in many industries. They improve efficiency in warehousing and transport logistics, protect sensitive components and ensure hygienic storage.
SLC inserts in the automotive sector
In the automotive sector, container inserts enable the safe storage and transport of bolts, nuts and other small parts.
SLC inserts for the electronics industry
The electronics industry benefits from custom-made container inserts that protect sensitive components such as circuit boards and microchips from vibration.
Hygiene solutions for the medical technology sector
In the medical field, sterile SLC inserts ensure that instruments are stored hygienically and prevent contamination.
SLC inserts in the food industry
The food industry also relies on special, food-safe container liners that ensure safe and hygienic packaging.
Overview of the applications for SLC inlays
Industry
Applications for SLC inserts
automotive industry
Organisation and protection for screws, nuts and small parts
electronics industry
Safe transport of sensitive components (circuit boards, microchips)
Medical technology
Sterile storage of instruments and accessories
food industry
Use of food-grade SLC inserts for hygiene and safety
A distinction must also be made between standard SLC inserts and individual inserts and trays. Depending on the area of application, it is worth taking a closer look at the differences between the two options. You can find more about this in our article Standard Trays vs. Individual Tray Solutions.
Conclusion – Increased efficiency thanks to SLC inserts
Whether in production, logistics or warehousing, SLC inserts significantly optimise the use of small load carriers and Euro-standard containers. They improve protection, organisation and the efficiency of work processes.
Find the right small load carrier insert for your needs in our Online-Shop!
Yes. In addition to over 200 standard inlays, we offer custom solutions using a plastic thermoforming process.
With our 3D Tray Generator, you can create your own tray design directly online.
Simply use our online store. Three factors are important when making your selection:
Component properties (shape, weight, material requirements such as ESD or sterility)
Container size (external dimensions of the SLC or Euro-norm container used)
Logistics process (manual handling or automated storage system)
Related content
Platform & Features
Ordering Standard Plastic Thermoformed Inserts: Step by Step for the formary Online Shop
Standard plastic thermoformed inserts are suitable for companies that want to equip SLCs or Euro containers quickly, without tooling costs and starting from small quantities. The formary Online Shop offers 220 ready-made inserts, including standard versions made from white PS and ESD-resistant versions made from conductive black PS. In this article, we show you step by step how to find suitable standard thermoformed inserts in the formary Online Shop, check technical details, request a sample and then obtain a quotation.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
Component Safety for Your Small Parts: How Thermoformed Plastic Inserts Ensure Secure Transport
Delicate components require protection against damage to prevent costs and downtime. Thermoformed plastic inserts provide an efficient solution for safe transport and storage. In this article, you will learn how thermoformed inserts optimize component safety.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
SLC Inlays – The Optimal Solution for Transport and Storage
Small Load Carriers (SLCs) are widely used as transport and storage containers across various industries. Their functionality is enhanced by SLC Inlays, which protect delicate components, improve organization, and simplify handling. Learn more in this article.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
What Stacking Methods Are Used for Trays? 4 Stacking Methods for Efficient Palletizing
This article demonstrates which stacking methods are used for different applications, where common errors occur, and which stacking method provides the greatest added value.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
Determining the Mold Nests of Your Workpiece Carrier
Mold nests or cavities can be diverse: rectangular, round, custom-shaped, tracks, ribs, or domes. So how is it decided which mold nest is the right one? More on this in the article.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
What Is a Workpiece Carrier? Definition & Applications
A constant challenge in the manufacturing industry is efficiently managing material flow throughout all assembly stages and departments. These logistical challenges can be optimally addressed by using product-specific workpiece carriers. Learn more in this article.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
Design for Manufacturing (DfM): Guide to Manufacturing-Oriented Design
With the new Design for Manufacturing analysis from formary, it is now possible to check CAD data for thermoformability in a matter of seconds, allowing potential sources of error to be identified early on before they become costly. Read on to find out what features the DfM software offers and what the Design for Manufacturing principle entails.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
Design Guidelines for Plastic Thermoformed Parts – Top 13 Tips for Plastic-Optimized Construction
Plastic thermoforming is shaped by factors like material quality, temperature, pressure, speed, and tool geometry. With the right design principles, you can prevent errors in CAD and production. formary has gathered key tips to help you optimize your thermoformed parts.
Thermoformed Parts in Practice
Construction Data in Thermoforming: These Factors Must Be Considered for Plastic Deep Drawn Parts
Deep drawn parts are custom-made and designed individually in a CAD format. Before a deep drawing tool is manufactured, a customer approval process of the CAD data or the derived, dimensioned PDF drawing takes place.
