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Wooden pallets represent universal structures used for transportation, warehousing, and storage of goods. Their application spans virtually all industries, from food to construction. This article looks at the main points about pallets. It covers their classification, standardization, selection, and operation. It also discusses how pallets fit into today’s logistics processes.
In today’s tough business world, companies want to cut costs and boost logistics. A growing trend among innovative companies is the use of remanufactured transportation platforms. Repackify and other similar companies have made a difference. They have set up a marketplace to sell great used pallets. They are safe for your wallet and the planet.
“The quality is comparable to new and the cost is lower.”
Repackify has a large inventory of used pallets for sale that it can deliver anywhere in the United States. This will help your company reduce logistics costs while maintaining reliability.
Pallet Typology and International Standards
Definition and Basic Characteristics
Pallets are flat platforms made from wood, plastic, or metal. They help group goods into single transport units. Wooden pallets remain the most common due to material availability and repairability.
Classification by Geographic Standards
International practice recognizes three main types of pallets. They vary in size and use:
- American Pallets
- Dimensions: 48×40×5.7 inches.
- Dominant in North America.
- Produced from pine, which reduces the overall weight of the structure.
- Euro Pallets (EUR-pallets)
- Dimensions: 47.2×31.5×5.7 inches.
- Common in Europe and CIS countries.
- Made from hardwood species, providing increased strength.
- Finnish Pallets (FIN-pallets)
- Dimensions: 47.2×39.4×5.7 inches.
- Used in Scandinavia and Baltic countries.
- Distinguished by increased width, optimal for transporting large-sized cargo.
These standards cover dimensions and wood quality. They also specify board thickness, which should be 0.8 to 1 inch for Euro pallets. Additionally, the distance between slats can be up to 2 inches.
Pallet Selection Criteria
Cargo Characteristics Consideration
When choosing a pallet, it is necessary to analyze:
Cargo weight. Euro pallets can withstand up to 3,307 lbs statically, Finnish pallets up to 4,409 lbs. For heavy metal products, reinforced models with additional cross beams are preferable.
Type of goods. Liquid cargo in glass containers needs pallets with sides. Open structures work well for bulk materials.
Climatic conditions. In high humidity, use treated pallets or plastic alternatives for transport.
Industry Specifics
In the food industry, material safety is critically important. Wooden pallets need certificates that prove they are free from harmful chemical treatments. Dry wood helps stop bacteria from growing. But when it gets wet, the chance of contamination goes up. In pharmaceuticals, smooth-surfaced pallets make disinfection easy. They also help mark and track batches of goods.
Storage and Warehousing Requirements
Warehouse Space Organization
Stacking. Maximum stack height is 8.2 feet. Each subsequent tier should be 40% smaller than the previous one to prevent collapse.
Climate control. Keep humidity between 60% and 70%. The temperature should be 50°F to 77°F. If these levels are not met, wood can warp, and mold may grow.
Storage Methods
Rack storage. Allows the use of vertical space and simplifies access to pallets.
Ground storage. Requires a flat surface and protection from direct sunlight, which accelerates wood cracking.
Also Read: Pallets in Warehouse: Wooden Type Of Pallet Rack
Disposal and Environmental Aspects
Recycling Process
Pallets unsuitable for repair undergo:
Dismantling. Removal of nails and metal fasteners.
Grinding. Processing into chips using shredder installations.
Sorting. Separation of metal fragments by magnetic separators.
The chips are used to make fuel briquettes or composite materials. In the EU, up to 85% of wooden pallets are recycled, which reduces the load on forest resources.
Marking and Identification
Types of Markings
Manufacturer’s stamp. Includes details about the country where it’s made and the issue date, such as “EUR” for Euro pallets.
Certification marks. Indicate compliance with EPAL (European Pallet Association) standards.
Warning symbols. Indicate weight restrictions or operating conditions.
Marking is placed on the load-bearing parts of pallets. It must stay clear for the whole service life. This is key for international shipments. Without a stamp, customs delays can happen.
Terminological Clarification: Pallets vs. Platforms
In professional vocabulary, the terms “pallet” and “platform” are often used as synonyms. However, “pallet” (from English pallet) usually means standardized structures that follow international norms. In contrast, “platform” is a broader term that covers non-standard models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of pallets?
The main types are American pallets (48×40 inches), Euro pallets (47.2×31.5 inches), and Finnish pallets (47.2×39.4 inches).
What materials are pallets made from?
Pallets are usually made from wood, plastic, or metal. Wooden pallets are the most common type.
How much weight can a Euro pallet support?
Euro pallets can withstand up to 3,307 lbs statically.
What factors should be considered when choosing a pallet?
Think about cargo weight, the type of goods, weather, industry details, and storage needs.
How are pallets recycled?
Pallets are dismantled, ground into chips, and sorted to remove metal fragments. The chips are then used for fuel briquettes or composite materials.
What’s the difference between a pallet and a platform?
“Pallet” means a standard structure based on international rules. “Platform” is a wider term that can also include non-standard models.
How are pallets marked?
Pallets have stamps from the manufacturer, certification marks, and warning symbols. These are found on the load-bearing parts.
What are the ideal storage conditions for pallets?
Humidity should be between 60% and 70%, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 77°F.
Final Thoughts
Pallets are key in global logistics. They change to meet needs for environmental safety and warehouse automation. To choose the best pallet type, you need to analyze the cargo, route, and industry standards. Recycling technology is improving. Better quality control also helps. This opens doors for more sustainable and cost-effective solutions.
Pallets are key to global logistics. Their standard design makes it easy to move goods across borders. This overview shows why it’s important to understand pallet types. There are American, Euro, and Finnish variants. Each type meets different regional and industry needs.
Choosing the right pallets relies on three key factors:
- Cargo type
- Industry needs
- Storage conditions
Modern businesses increasingly recognize the economic and environmental benefits of remanufactured pallets. Repackify shows that second-hand pallets can match the quality of new ones. They also lower costs and help the environment. This trend aligns with growing sustainability initiatives across global supply chains.
Storing, handling, and recycling pallets are key parts of managing their lifecycle. Recycling rates in places like the EU hit 85%. This shows that wooden pallets can be great for the environment. When managed well, they are responsible logistics tools.
Logistics networks are changing. Businesses need to understand pallet standards. They need to pick the right pallets and follow the best practices for operations. This knowledge helps improve supply chain efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The simple pallet is often overlooked. Yet, it shows how smart design and standardization boost global trade.