A pallet is a flat logistics equipment used for piling up, storing, and transporting goods, mostly in a warehouse. A forklift is the most common tool used to handle pallets. Pallets are made from metal, wood, plastic, or cardboard. These materials offer various benefits with some limitations. These are 7 types of pallets with their application and properties. Also, check here if you’re looking for the best pallet company near Abingdon, VA.
- Wood Pallets
Wood pallets are the most common type of pallets. They are used for heavier goods since they are durable. They are easy and cost less to build. They are usually used in warehouses, shipyards, or distribution centers. The major limitation to this type of pallet is the fact that it is more prone to water damage and is sometimes a safety risk for workers.
- Metal Pallets
Metal pallets are made with aluminum and steel. They are much stronger than wood and plastic. Metal pallets are used by most large industrial companies due to their extreme durability. Catering companies also used them because they are easy to clean. Due to their weight, it cost more to transport them.
- Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets are lightweight pallets suitable for all conditions. They have a very long lifespan, easy to use without special maintenance, and are usually corrosion-free. They can not be used to store heavy goods because they break easily. Melting is also required to repair these breaks and cracks so it isn’t as easy to repair as wood pallets.
- Cardboard Pallets
Paper pallets are very lightweight and also made from recycled materials. They are easy to clean and stronger than they look. But, they can not be used for products that are heavy because these pallets can be damaged easily. Due to their lightweight nature, they usually reduce transport costs.
Note: Aside from pallet types depending on the material used, there are also pallet types depending on the design used to construct them.
- Block Pallets
The most important feature of a block pallet is the fact that it can be forklifted from all sides. The upper deck, that is, the side facing up is usually supported by twelve columns. Block pallets are very efficient and can be made of wood, plastic, or metal.
- Stringer Pallets
They are similar to block pallets but offer extra support. Two or sometimes three boards run between the upper and bottom deck providing extra support on the side. Therefore, it can only be lifted from the two sides in the case of using two boards, or one side in the case of three boards left open.
- Double-Face Pallet
This type of pallet as the name implies has a deck board on both the top and bottom part of the pallet. They are usually more durable and even help to evenly distribute the weight of goods. This is to avoid accidents like good falling that can lead to product damage.
Deciding on the type of pallet to use solely depends on the kind of goods you are going to be working with. Taking into consideration the cost of shipping, ease of use, and transportation conditions.
