From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Crate \Crate\ (kr[=a]t), n. [L. cratis hurdle; perh. akin to E.
cradle. See Hurdle, and cf. Crate a framework.]
1. A large basket or hamper of wickerwork, used for the
transportation of china, crockery, and similar wares.
[1913 Webster]
2. A box or case whose sides are of wooden slats with
interspaces, -- used especially for transporting fruit.
[1913 Webster]
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
crate \crate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Crated; p. pr. & vb. n.
Crating.]
To pack in a crate or case for transportation; as, to crate a
sewing machine; to crate peaches.
[1913 Webster]