The Cost of Commercial Planters
When utilizing commercial planters for your next project, selecting the right planters can make all the difference by aligning with your client's overall vision and budget, providing additional greenspace, and ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence.
If you've ever searched for a commercial planter, you may have been surprised by the wide range of prices and options and wondered the following:
Why are commercial planters so expensive?
Do you really get what you pay for?
How can I optimize the balance between planter quality and price?
When researching planter options online, you may have noticed that planter suppliers and planter manufacturers often don’t discuss price because the fact is: commercial planters are expensive. However, we believe you deserve transparency when investing in high-quality planters. That’s why we’re breaking down exactly what goes into the price, so you can make an informed decision for you or your client without surprises.
We know your clients are working within a budget. By understanding the factors that influence cost, you can choose planters that maximize durability, aesthetics, and value for your investment.
Whether your project is for an office complex, rooftop terrace, restaurant, hotel, prestigious university, or high-end private residence, this guide will break down everything you need to know about the cost of commercial planters so you can make an informed design and purchase decision.
Ready to start your planter project? Contact us today for a personalized quote or expert guidance.
PurePots Fiberglass Planters at a private wine lounge in Napa Valley, CA project
3 Factors that Impact the Cost of Commercial Planters
When designing or sourcing commercial planters, you’ll notice that prices vary significantly based on several key factors. To make an informed decision, we recommend taking the time to understand these factors.
Factor #1: Standard vs. Custom Planters
Will you be purchasing a standard planter, or do you need something custom-made?
Cost of Standard Planters
For PureModern standard planters, we list the MSRP for each product and size. This price does not include shipping* or tax**.
* More about shipping:
Unlike small orders of 1-2 planters that can be shipped via standard carriers like UPS or FedEx, larger orders require freight shipping, which often involves additional logistics, such as having someone available to receive the delivery and, in some cases, using a forklift or other equipment to unload the planters.
Standard planters are typically shipped LTL (less than truckload) or full truckload. LTL is ideal for smaller shipments weighing 150 to 15,000 pounds, as it allows multiple shipments to share truck space, reducing costs. Since you only pay for the space your cargo occupies, LTL is a cost-effective option for shipping freight.
** More about tax: There is typically no sales tax in most states, but when tax is charged, it is calculated using the state tax rate.
Cost of Custom Planters
If you're considering custom planters, you’ll likely need to factor in additional costs.
Calculating the price of custom plant containers depends on several factors::
The type and gauge of material used (see next section for more info).
Size of the planter (i.e., the amount of the material used). Large commercial planters require more materials and labor, making them significantly more expensive than smaller options.
Shape of the planter. Round and curved planters are more expensive.
Fabrication labor hours (i.e., the amount of welding and grinding). More hours mean higher cost.
Will the planters stand alone as individual planters, or will you need modular bolted planters to create a larger integrated planter system?
Planter details (e.g., top lips, inlays, cutouts for lights, drainage holes, etc.).
Design complexity (custom logos or unique finishes).
Color. Custom colors are typically more expensive. Cost varies based on how a particular color is made, with what pigment, and availability.
Other custom applications.
Factor #2: Materials
The material you choose will impact the cost of your planter (as well as lead time, durability, and customization options). For a full guide to commercial planter materials, check out this guide.
Factor #3: Wholesale vs. Retail Pricing
When purchasing commercial planters, the difference between wholesale and retail pricing can have a significant impact on your budget.
Typically reserved for businesses buying in bulk, trade pricing includes discounts that reflect larger order quantities and direct manufacturer relationships. So, if you're buying multiple planters for a business, landscaping project, or large property, wholesale trade commercial planters may be the most cost-effective option. Minimum order quantities may apply, making wholesale purchases best for large-scale projects.
PureModern offers wholesale trade pricing for designers, contractors, corporate buyers, and other businesses. Contact us to see if you qualify.
As a member of PureModern's Wholesale, Industry, and Trade Sales Program, you enjoy a dedicated trade sales representative, 20% to 40% discounts based on project size, and shipping across the US and Canada.
Fiberglass Planters at Tulane Lavin - Bernick Center in New Orleans, LA
How Can I Keep Costs Under Control When Ordering Commercial Planters?
While the answer to this question will vary based on your unique project, we recommend the following:
Reconsider the overall size of the planters. For example, don’t order a planter that is larger than what you really need. Determine the planter height that will meet your planting depth needs. Of course, it will be important first to figure out what you are planting. Contact us to help you optimize planter size.
Simplify the design. Every extra bend or weld can increase the cost.
Only opt for curves when absolutely necessary. Opting for simple right angles will keep costs lower.
LITE planter line and stock fiberglass planters are usually less expensive.
Butt join individual planter boxes vs using modular planter options.
Determine if your project requires an edging solution or a complete planter design.
Use a standard color rather than custom.
Don’t over-engineer material thickness. Contact us to help you optimize material gauge.
Use a lighter gauge for smaller planters.
Bulk order when you need several planters of the same size.
Plan ahead to prevent future rush fabrication and rush shipping up-charges.
Modern Elite Aluminum Planters at Southcentre Mall in Calgary, AB, Canada
How Can I Optimize Both Cost & Function?
This is a question we discuss with our clients on a daily basis. It’s actually built into the way we do business. And the solution has a technical name: value engineering.
Value engineering is all about striking the optimal balance between maximizing function and minimizing cost while still meeting each and every design goal. When a project is value engineered, you’re able to solve problems and minimize costs.
Said simply, you get the best value for the lowest cost.
For example, we often discover a client has ordered planters with add-ons that aren’t really necessary. In such a case, we have recommended opportunities for savings that have included the following:
A client ordered a full bottom planter, but as we communicated through our Four-Step Project Process, we noticed that a bottomless application will also work.
A client wanted benches cantilevered on the planter. We suggested making a similar, more cost-effective metal planter box bench design that fits seamlessly with the planter.
We’ve also discovered a client has ordered planters with expensive materials they might not need.
For example:
One designer thought they needed to order stainless steel or thicker-gauge steel. But aluminum, which is more cost-effective and has a higher weight-to-strength ratio, was comparable for durability and longevity and still met the structural requirements.
When one client ordered stainless steel (without realizing just how expensive stainless steel can be), we suggested a comparable powder-coat finish that saved the client money.
Another client specified COR-TEN, and we suggested substituting aluminum with a faux rust powder coat, which was less expensive.
By value engineering the final product, we’re able to provide the client with a less expensive option that doesn’t compromise functionality or design goals in the least.
Custom Planters at Leominster Police Station in Leominster, MA
FAQs About the Cost of Commercial Planters
Why are commercial planters so expensive?
Commercial planters are more expensive than consumer-grade options from your local garden shop or retailers like Home Depot, Lowe's, Amazon, or IKEA because commercial planters are designed for long-term durability and premium aesthetics.
Are commercial planters made from better materials?
Unlike mass-produced pottery, plastic, or lightweight resin planters, commercial planters are built with high-quality metals like powder-coated aluminum, COR-TEN steel, or fiberglass — materials that withstand harsh weather, UV exposure, and heavy use in commercial settings.
How much do high-quality commercial planters cost?
For example, PureModern’s Modern Elite Cube Planter starts at $416, and the Modern Elite Wide Divider Planter starts at $1,426. The price points reflect their superior craftsmanship and commercial-grade finishes.
Do commercial planters last longer than retail options?
Yes. These planters are engineered to maintain their structure and appearance for years, whereas cheaper alternatives may fade, crack, or deteriorate quickly.
What features justify the higher price of commercial planters?
Commercial planters often include drainage solutions, insulation options, and custom finishes that aren’t available in lower-cost consumer planters.
Is investing in commercial-grade planters worth it?
If you're designing a space that needs to look polished and professional over the long term, investing in commercial-grade planters is often well worth the cost.
Why don't you list your wholesale prices?
Our prices vary based on the volume, design complexity, and location of each order.
The prices are available on our website. To receive accurate prices, it is usually best to have us quote each project. We can turn most quotes around within 24 hours.
Do you provide trade discounts and wholesale pricing?
Yes, we offer trade discounts and wholesale pricing.
To apply for our trade discount program and learn more about it, please complete the form provided. We will respond within 24 hours.
Learn More
By considering these factors, you can better understand and assess the cost of commercial planters and choose the right option for your project without overspending.
Count on us to be an invested and engaged member of your team from the moment we become involved until you’re delighted with the outcome.
Have a project in mind? Get a fast, no-obligation quote and see how PureModern can bring your vision to life.
