A pallet is a structural foundation used for handling, transporting, and storing goods or freight. Pallets are essential in improving warehouse operational efficiency, allowing easy movement of stacked goods using tools like forklifts and pallet jacks. They protect your shipment without needing extensive protective layers, making them a practical choice for businesses.

Types of Pallets

Pallets come in various materials, each with unique characteristics suited to different applications. Here's an overview of the most common types:

1. Wooden Pallets

Over 90% of all pallets in use are made from wood, including hardwoods like oak and softwoods like pine. Wooden pallets are subject to international ISPM 15 regulations, which require them to be made from debarked wood and treated to prevent pest infestations. Compliant pallets carry an identification plate indicating their adherence to these standards.

2. Plastic Pallets

Plastic pallets, typically made from PP, HDPE, or recycled plastic bottles, are gaining popularity. Manufactured using roto-molding or injection molding processes, these pallets are commonly used for transporting fresh and frozen food, as well as pharmaceuticals. Despite plastic's negative press, it remains a favored material in pallet construction due to its durability and reusability.

3. Metal Pallets

Constructed from steel or aluminum, metal pallets are incredibly strong and ideal for long-term use. Though less popular than wooden pallets due to their higher cost, they are frequently used for storing and transporting metals, automobile parts, and military ammunition.

4. Eco Pallets

Eco pallets are an environmentally friendly option, made from materials like paper, corrugated cardboard, honeycomb cardboard, or fiberboard. These ultra-light pallets are easy to dispose of after use and don't need to be returned to the supplier, reducing shipping costs.

Pallet Characteristics

Pallets have specific characteristics that determine how they can be used, including entry points, styles, and deck types.

Entry Points

• 2-Way Pallet: Forklifts can only enter from two sides.
• 4-Way Pallet: Forklifts can enter from all four sides, providing more flexibility in handling.
• Partial 4-Way Pallet: Allows forklift entry from all sides, but some entry points may be restricted.

Pallet Styles

• Single Face Pallet: Has deck boards only on one side.
• Double Face Non-Reversible Pallet: Has deck boards on both sides, but only one side can be used as the load-bearing surface.
• Double Face Reversible Pallet: Both sides can be used for loading, providing versatility.

Deck Styles

• Flush Deck: The deck boards are flush with the edges of the stringers or blocks.
• Single Wing Deck: The deck extends slightly beyond the stringers or blocks on one side.
• Double Wing Deck: The deck extends beyond the stringers or blocks on both sides, offering additional surface area.

Pallet Classes

Pallets are generally classified into two main categories based on their construction: Stringer Pallets and Block Pallets.

Stringer Pallets

Stringer pallets are designed with boards between the top and bottom deck boards, which support the load on the pallet. These pallets typically feature three or more stringers arranged in parallel, providing a sturdy structure for the goods.

Block Pallets

Block pallets are true 4-way entry pallets, using blocks of solid wood, plywood, or plastic to support the unit load. Typically, block pallets use 4 to 12 blocks to support the top deck boards. Between the blocks and the deck boards, thin stringers form a mat with the deck boards. Block pallets can be designed with or without bottom deck boards or a full-perimeter base, offering flexibility depending on the application.

Conclusion

Pallets are a crucial component in the logistics and warehousing industries, offering a practical and efficient solution for transporting and storing goods. Whether you choose wooden, plastic, metal, or eco pallets, understanding the different types, characteristics, and classes of pallets will help you select the right option for your needs. With pallets, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, protect their shipments, and even contribute to sustainability efforts through eco-friendly choices.