What is a short handle?

A Short Handle is a shortened bucket handle that rests closely and compactly around the upper rim or collar of the bucket when not in use. Unlike conventional longer handles, it does not extend beyond the outer contour of the bucket.

This design offers several practical advantages. On printed buckets or buckets decorated using In-Mould Labelling (IML), the close-fitting handle does not cover the printed design. Product design, branding and important product information therefore remain fully visible.

At the same time, the compact design makes packing in cartons and on pallets easier, as there are no protruding handles requiring additional space or interfering with handling.

The Short Handle also offers advantages in automated filling and packaging processes. Because it rests closely against the bucket, it does not interfere with denesting, conveying, filling or closing processes, making it particularly suitable for automated production lines.

Another advantage concerns hygiene: the more compact design creates fewer areas where dirt or contamination can accumulate during handling, storage and processing. This is particularly beneficial for applications in the food and animal feed sectors.

Despite its more compact design, the required load-bearing capacity is maintained. Short Handle systems are designed and tested according to the intended load of the respective bucket. Carrying comfort and stability therefore depend not simply on the length of the handle, but on the complete design of the handle, its attachment points and the bucket.

The shortened design also offers advantages in terms of material use: less plastic is required for the shorter handle. This can reduce material consumption as well as the associated energy use and CO₂ emissions during production of the handle.

A specific example is our modernised 2.5-litre rectangular bucket with Short Handle. For this bucket system, the Short Handle was tested with a static load of 7.5 kg for 8 hours and a tensile load of more than 18 kg.

These test results confirm the load-bearing capacity of this specific bucket-and-handle system. The permissible load of other buckets and Short Handle designs depends on their respective construction and the product-specific manufacturer specifications.