Do you know that the type of pallet you choose is the reason behind successful shipments? A pallet is a structure that moves products from point A to point B within the warehouse and to the distribution centres.
However, in recent times, the rising number of plastic and custom pallets, along with the dominance of wood ones are making the choices difficult. As a supply chain manager, you can be unsure whether to use wood, plastic, or custom pallet for specific products.
The wrong pallet can damage the products, increase shipping costs, and take up more storage space than necessary. For this reason, this blog should be your guide to determine the right pallet type from pallet manufacturers in Melbourne.
1. Weight of the Goods
Lightweight Goods:
You must first weigh all the products that you will be transporting. Generally, storing or moving lightweight products require standard size softwood pallets which are available in different sizes, ranging from 110 cm, 115 cm, to 117 cm.
You can even consider lightweight plastic pallets or cardboard pallets. When choosing the latter, keep in mind that these pallets are good for one-way shipments.
Heavy Goods:
If you are storing heavy machine, furniture, or other high-grade heavy products in the warehouse or hauling them to long distances, then you must choose hardwood pallets. They are often reusable and can hold up to 1600 kg weight.
You can even use recyclable pallets from pallet manufacturers in Melbourne, which are recycled from used timber or plastic. Customising your pallet as per the product weight makes it even more convenient to accommodate products with different weights and sizes.
2. Type of Products
Fragile Goods:
The next factor that you should be looking into when choosing a high-quality pallet is its ability to handle fragile goods with care. Finding a pallet that provides extra support and durability is the key.
If you are working in retail, pharmaceutical, or food industry, then it is best to have plastic pallets. They do not attract bacteria, moisture, and can retain their shape for a long time. Even during transportation, the pallets absorb shock which keep delicate items stable and damage-free.
For more benefits, customising pallets with extra decks or cushioning is also an alternative. You must custom-fit the pallet as per the fragile item’s dimensions to prevent items from moving within the pallet.
Bulk Items:
If you are moving bulk orders within domestic borders, any type of pallet with appropriate weighing capacity can allow successful shipments. But when crossing overseas, Euro pallets occupying ISPM 15 certification and EPAL licensing is the best choice available.
ISPM 15 certification guarantees that the pallets meet international compliance. These pallets are heat-treated and dried to remove and prevent pests, bacteria, and other contaminants from entering into foreign land. On the other hand, EPAL licensing is an international regulation for quality and safety of the pallets.
3. Environment and Storage Conditions
Outdoor Storage:
If you are going to store products in open cargos or to areas that are exposed to weather damage, wooden pallets are ideal. It is good to inquire about heat treatments before using pallets in a high temperature environment.
Cold Storage:
If you are choosing a pallet for storing food and dairy products, frozen foods, beverages, or pharmaceuticals, then it is best to go with a plastic pallet. The perishable products require specific temperatures to remain in best shape and quality. Being highly hygienic, plastic pallets serve as cold storage as they resist cold temperatures and keep products away from moisture and heating temperatures.
4. Sustainable Solutions
If your business prioritises greener practices, opting for recycled wooden pallets or plastic pallets can help reduce waste going into landfills. Many manufacturers also accept used pallets to recycle them under their pallet recycling programs.
5. Pallet Design and Size
Standard Pallet Sizes:
In Australia, the standard pallet size is 1165mm x 1165mm, which suits most goods and storage spaces.
Custom Sizes:
If your products are smaller or larger than average, consider custom-sized pallets to better fit your requirements.
6. Cost Considerations
Budget-Friendly Options:
Considering budget is again the next consideration. Wooden pallets are costly but are way more durable than plastics. Used or recycled wooden or plastic pallets are also excellent economical options.
Long-Term Investment:
If your business needs pallets for multiple uses or long-term shipping, investing in durable plastic skids are more cost-effective over time.
Final Words
We hope you found this blog useful. Coming to an end, determining the right type of pallets is a decision that must be taken after assessing the weight and type of the stock, storage environment, eco-friendly needs, pallet size, and costs,
It is good to find custom pallet manufacturers in Melbourne who can accommodate specific business needs within the right time.
