Pallets

The use of pallets in transportation has cut down handling, improved storage, reduced transit times and reduced transport costs, not bad for something that started out as some pieces of wood nailed to other pieces of wood. So how can this simple, but vital piece of equipment do so much?

Pallets Cut Down Handling

Once the cargo is loaded onto a pallet, it can be moved on a fork lift or pallet truck without touching the freight. It can be loaded and unloaded from vehicles and put into racking systems without a need to lift individual items.

Pallets Improve Storage

Using racking systems, pallets can be stacked above each other, freeing up floor space. Their standardised size and shape make loading shipping containers easier.

Pallets Reduce Transit Times

Pallets can be quickly loaded and unloaded, cutting queing times. With a pallet truck they can quickly be moved into position on a truck. One man on a forklift can load or unload a vehicle in a fraction of the time a team of men could, if the goods were loose loaded.

Pallets Reduce Transport Costs

With quicker handling and better stowing options pallets have brought the cost of trucking down. Huge transport networks have grown to handle the ever increasing demand for pallet delivery, pushing the costs down to compete.

What is a Standard Pallet?

It depends on where you are to what a standard pallet is.
In the USA a standard pallet is 48 x 40ins
In the UK a standard pallet is 120 x 100cms
A Euro Pallet is 120 x 80cms

What are Pallets Made of?

Traditionally pallets were made of untreated wood. ISPM15 regulations led to more pallets being made from heat treated timber. Plastic pallets are now also very popular. 

To find out how a pallet can reduce your road freight costs, click on the link below and complete the online quotation form.