How to choose the pallets?
Pallets is considered as the main packing option for almost all goods, and all transportation modes.
A pallet can be defined as a horizontal platform device, which is used as a base to transport, handle, store and assemble products and materials into a single loading unit. In addition, the pallets are designed to ensure that no goods are damaged inside the pallets when they are loaded on top of each other.
Just like container shipping, with simple and safe properties of use, pallets are widely used worldwide in almost all warehouses, trucks and cargo ships.
Compared to the delivery of non-palletized goods, pallet shipping represents a significant cost. On the other hand, the price-quality ratio due to the real minimization of risks and potential damage to deliveries makes the pallet of goods an indispensable tool in the goods transport industry.
When it comes to pallet material, there are two major options available to you: Plastic and Wooden Pallets.
This article will allow you to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages associated with these two options to help you make the right decision for your shipping needs. To do that, we invite you to continue reading and discover everything you need to know.
« There are several advantages associated with using wooden pallets. One of the main reasons people use this type of pallet is because it tends to be the cheapest. This option is ideal for anyone with a restricted budget »
Wooden pallets are also easy to repair, which is another way to save money if you choose this option. All you need to do is remove or replace one of the broken wooden boards, rather than replacing the entire pallet.
Moreover, wood offers advantages in recycling. Wood used for pallet construction can be collected using recycled materials; once the pallet is out of use it can be recycled into paper and mulch.
Beyond this point, wood can boast other advantages in the sense of being much easier and faster to assemble. This is particularly important for people who use a considerable number of pallets.
Overall the wood is strong and resistant. It also offers an elevated level of safety because it provides a high level of friction, which is a substantial advantage over plastic. This ensures that goods will not slip easily once on the pallet.
« There are some negative points that you should also keep in mind. Wood has its own disadvantages. One of the main problems is that wood is an organic material and, as a result, it can quickly deform, weaken or even splinter. Thus, while it is possible to save money on upfront costs, you may find yourself spending more due to ongoing recommendations that generate additional costs. »
People who manipulate pallets often have bad experiences, surprised by splinters or wood shards. Needless to say, a nail or a splinter in the hand is not a pleasant experience.
On the other hand, wooden pallets are also very difficult to clean. It is due to the fact that bacteria and fungi grow when the wood becomes wet. Last but not least, wood must be treated to be shipped internationally because it can contain invasive species of insects or even plant diseases.
Fumigation is mandatory, the cost is fix no matter how many pallet must be fumigated.
« Plastic pallets are also an excellent option for goods packing. » One of the best characteristics of plastic is the fact that it is a durable material over time. You can expect to be able to use the plastic material for a minimum of 10 years and therefore save money in the long-term. Plastic also allows you to reduce your expenses in another way by reducing your shipping costs, as plastic is lighter than wood by approximately 30%. Aside from the points mentioned, it is also important to note that plastic is harmless to handle, just as you don’t have to worry about shredding, splinters and nails. Plastic is also resistant to chemicals, such as alkalis and acids, and can therefore be easily cleaned. In order to eliminate bacteria, plastic pallets can be chemically disinfected, cleaned with steam or hot water. If this was not sufficient, they are fully recyclable and can be transformed into new pallets. « As mentioned earlier in this article, plastic is more expensive than wood, which implies that the initial costs can be considerable. So this is an obvious disadvantage. » A further disadvantage is that plastic pallets cannot be easily repaired. If the plastic is broken or cracked, you will have to melt the pallet and re-mould it to create another one. It is obvious that this process is long and inefficient and would lead most people to buy a new pallet instead of using this process. As mentioned above, plastic doesn’t have as much friction as wood does. This is harmful because materials and products can easily slip or fall off the pallet if you are not considerate. So, this is a point you need to take seriously. Furthermore, you must be sure that you are using high quality plastic in which case the pallet could easily be too brittle and susceptible to breakage. When you select the right material for your logistics and transfer requirements, there is no right or wrong solution. It’s about finding the right solution for your needs There are different types of cargo, different shipping methods, different situations. Just make sure you evaluate all the necessary criteria in their entirety. B) Plastic pallets
Advantages
Disadvantages
C) Comparatif table
Wooden pallets Plastic Pallet Costs Weak Important Duration Long Superior Anti-slip Good Bad Weight Heavy Light Flexibility Yes No Repairable Yes No Recyclable Yes (easily) Yes (with difficulty) Shipping regulations Yes (ISPM-15) No How to choose?