April 13, 2026

SharkCrates Reorganizes for Growth and Doubles Production Efficiency

Company Profile

SharkCrates, based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, designs and manufactures custom wooden shipping crates, pallets, and reusable wood packaging. Founded six years ago by Nate Collins and partners, this family-owned company is known for its craftsmanship, responsiveness, and commitment to quality. SharkCrates serves a wide range of industries that depend on durable, sustainable packaging to keep products moving safely and efficiently.

Situation

SharkCrates grew rapidly and outpaced its layout. The company shared space with another business in its facility and had expanded into every available corner. “We couldn’t press the gas pedal to grow because we were worried about not being able to fulfill customer promises,” said Nate Collins, Co-owner. “We had a vision for how to fix it, but accountability was the challenge—we could never find the time to make it happen.” After learning about WMEP and its mission through a local conference, Nate saw an opportunity to get the coaching and structure needed to move from ideas to action.

“Once the plant layout changes were in place, everything just flowed and we saw the results immediately. We’re going to push sales even harder because now we know we can handle it.”

– Nate Collins, Co-owner, SharkCrates

Solutions

SharkCrates partnered with WMEP to design a new layout that aligned with its growth goals. WMEP worked side by side with the team to develop a plan that improved efficiency and workflow continuity. “The consultant saw our vision right away,” said Nate Collins, Co-owner. “Like a good coach, he poked holes, asked tough questions, and made us think twice about a lot of things.” A major breakthrough came when WMEP introduced the concept of one-piece flow—a lean manufacturing principle that minimizes work in process. “That was our ‘aha’ moment,” Collins said. “We realized we didn’t need piles of work in process sitting in the warehouse. Keeping things moving through the shop made us faster and more efficient.”