The correct distribution and location of goods significantly facilitate logistics operations in warehouses or distribution centres. Equipping an installation with appropriate industrial storage systems is ineffective if the arrangement of the load hinders workflow, risks damage to the goods, or poses safety hazards to warehouse staff. Monitoring the unit load on pallets is crucial for safety in warehouses, as it involves the homogeneous grouping of products on a support or platform that eases handling and transfer.
What is a Pallet?
A pallet is a support or platform made of boards for stacking loads. It is a rigid frame on which goods are placed, distributed evenly in height and surface area. Pallets, and consequently the loads they carry, are transported within the warehouse using forklifts or pallet trucks.
Types of Pallets
There are various types of pallets based on their size, composition, and other factors. Below are the main types and their characteristics:
Pallets by Dimensions
The Europallet measures 1200×800 mm and is currently the most widespread in Europe. It is regulated by EPAL (European Pallet Association) and as indicated on their website, around 500 million are currently in circulation. The Europallet is standardised by ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) and is widely used in European industry and logistics to facilitate the flow of goods. The measurements of the Europallet are determined by the width of truck wagons, containers, and trailers, which are usually 2400 mm, allowing for optimal use of load space. The Europallet’s main characteristics include 11 wooden boards, 9 blocks, and 78 nails, with an approximate weight of 25 kg. It has a safe workload of 1500 kg on the move and a static load of up to 5500 kg. Various markings for identification, such as the licence number and treatment method, are present, with the EPAL acronym being the most visible.
The American pallet measures 1200×1000 mm and is widely used in American and Japanese logistics. Also known as a universal pallet or iso pallet, its main characteristics include an approximate weight of 25 kg, a safe workload of 1500 kg on the move, and a static load of up to 6000 kg on a smooth, solid surface. Other standardised pallet measurements identified by ISO include 1016×1219 mm, 1165 x 1165 mm, 1067 x 1067 mm, and 1100×1100 mm. These types of pallets are used far less widely than the Euro Pallet or American pallet.
Pallets by Entry Points
Entry points refer to the number of sides where the forklift can introduce the fork to move the load. Pallets with four entry points allow the forklift or mechanical equipment to access the pallet from any side along either the length or width, offering higher mobility. Pallets with two entry points can only be accessed on two opposite sides, offering less mobility.
Pallets by Material
Wooden pallets are the most demanded, having a market share of around 90% to 95%. Their advantages include competitive prices in terms of resistance, reliability, and ease of repair, which extends their life cycle. They are also easy to recycle. However, they can be susceptible to damage if the wood is severely knocked, and they are challenging to clean and disinfect. Wooden pallets, regardless of their measurements, are subject to ISPM 15 regulations, which govern how wood packaging material, including pallets, must be treated in international trade. ISPM 15 requires pallets to be manufactured using debarked wood and that phytosanitary treatment is applied to prevent the presence and proliferation of wood-related pests. Compliant pallets contain the corresponding identification plate or labelling.
Plastic pallets are gradually gaining ground on wooden pallets. They are easier to clean and disinfect, lighter because they weigh less, and even more durable because any knocks cause less impact. They are also 100% recyclable. However, plastic pallets are more susceptible to deformation under excessive loads and are more expensive than wood. It is also important to know the exact material they are made of because resistance and durability vary significantly depending on the type of plastic. Substantial damage to a plastic pallet requires component replacement, as repair is not an option.
Metal pallets, usually made of steel or aluminium, are the most resistant and also the heaviest. They are mostly used in the metal industry. Metal pallets are easy to clean and disinfect, have a long useful life due to their strength and impact resistance, and support very heavy loads. However, their weight is greater than pallets made from other materials, increasing transport costs.
Cardboard pallets are mainly designed for light loads. They are disposable, recyclable, inexpensive, and easy to handle due to their lightness. Cardboard pallets are characterised by their low weight and are the cheapest types of pallets. However, they have a very short life cycle because they are only suitable for single use.
Other Types of Pallets
Reversible pallets enable loading tasks both from the top and the bottom, with both sides being identical and homogeneous. Closed pallets, also called flat pallets, have only one side that can be loaded and are closed by a slat that covers one of the backs. Wing pallets have projections on two or four sides to facilitate the use of fastening systems.
Recommendations for Loading Goods on Pallets
Proper loading of goods on pallets ensures the safety and integrity of the products. It is important to avoid gaps between pallets to prevent unbalanced stacking. Pallets should be placed crosswise if they are to be transported by trucks or any other means of transport. The load must not exceed the dimensions of the pallet; if it does, shrink wrap the load. Knowing the height and weight of the load is essential to determine how many pallets can be loaded on the means of transport or in the warehouse. Goods should be placed in a way that makes it easier for the forklift to handle the pallet.
Recommendations for Amazon FBA
Amazon recommends selecting wooden pallets with a 4-way entry, which allows forklifts to access the pallet from all four sides, enhancing manoeuvrability and efficiency in handling. The preferred choice for FBA shipments are GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) standard pallets, which come in two grades: A and B.
GMA Standard A Grade Pallets
These are top-quality pallets, typically newer and less worn. They have no repairs or only minor repairs, with all deck boards and stringers in excellent condition. A grade pallets are ideal for transporting high-value or fragile goods as they provide the highest level of protection and structural integrity.
GMA Standard B Grade Pallets
These pallets are more economical and have undergone repairs. While still functional and safe, B grade pallets might have more visible wear and may include stringer repairs with metal plates or companion stringers. They are suitable for heavier, less delicate items that do not require the pristine condition of A grade pallets.
Regardless of the grade, always ensure that the pallets are in good, usable condition. Inspect them carefully to make sure there are no weak, broken, or damaged parts. Compromised pallets can significantly reduce cargo protection and increase the risk of damage during transit and handling.
For more information or assistance, our team of experts is ready to help with any questions you may have about pallets and their uses. Ensuring the correct arrangement and distribution of goods on pallets is crucial for efficient and safe logistics operations.
