a collapsible container configured to lay substantially flat in a collapsed position and maintain an extended or usable position by utilizing load - bearing means rigidly disposed among and affixed to various support members . the load - bearing means are adapted to receive support members and sustain the container in its usable position when a load is placed therein . the load bearing means resist movement of support members in the direction caused by the load exerted on the container . when the load is removed , the load - bearing means is adapted to permit the support members to be withdrawn there from so that the container may be transitioned to a substantially flat collapsed position .