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Identification

Vintage Magnetic AB Sweden Industrial Wooden Shipping Crate

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

The item is an industrial wooden shipping crate, constructed of plywood with metal-reinforced edges. It is prominently stenciled 'MAGNETIC AB SWEDEN', which serves as the primary brand identifier.

Story

The crate features prominent stenciling from Magnetic AB Sweden, indicating its origin as an industrial shipping container. It boasts excellent historical provenance via an original shipping label addressed to Lenkurt Electric in San Carlos, California—a major telecommunications equipment manufacturer acquired by GTE. Handwritten notations on the label firmly date its transit to June 1971.

Maker / Origin

Magnetic AB

Condition & Value

Based on the visible exterior, the crate exhibits wear consistent with its industrial use, including scuffs and patina on the metal reinforcements, which enhances its authentic industrial charm. The stenciling and historical shipping labels are remarkably intact and legible.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for authentic industrial decor remains steady, with buyers seeking out pieces that offer both aesthetic appeal and practical storage utility. Wooden shipping crates with clear corporate branding, bold typography, and historical shipping labels appeal to both general industrial design enthusiasts and niche collectors. Retail platforms like Etsy and eBay are the primary venues for these items, though shipping costs often dictate local or regional market dynamics.

Value Drivers

▲ Clear, highly legible 'MAGNETIC AB SWEDEN' stenciling provides strong visual appeal for industrial decor.

▲ Original 1971 Lenkurt Electric / GTE shipping label offers verifiable historical provenance.

▲ Metal-reinforced edges enhance the authentic, rugged industrial aesthetic.

Concerns

▼ Unknown dimensions — lack of size context makes it difficult for buyers to assess its utility as furniture or storage.

▼ Unverified interior condition — significant damage, odors, or missing structural elements would reduce value.

▼ High shipping costs relative to the item's value may deter online buyers if the crate is exceptionally large or heavy.

Best Venue

To maximize value, provide exact dimensions and clear photos of the interior to confirm its utility as a storage piece. Gently clean the exterior with a dry brush, being careful not to disturb the original labels or stenciling. List on platforms catering to vintage and industrial decor, such as Etsy or eBay, using keywords that highlight the Swedish origin and telecom provenance.

Upside Potential

If the crate is of a substantial, highly usable size (e. g., suitable for use as a coffee table or blanket chest) and the interior is clean and structurally sound, it could realize the high end of the range or slightly exceed it in a targeted retail setting.

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Also found — market-range context

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