Guide to Selecting the Right Plastic Pallets for Your Business

Plastic pallets are among the most versatile types of reusable packaging solutions. For this reason, they are available in a large variety of sizes, properties and features. In this guide, the Logistic Packaging team will explain how to select the right pallets for your business needs, with the ideal combination of characteristics.

We will do so by explaining the main features of pallets and how they impact the usability and adequacy of these pallets for various industries and products.

1. Size

The majority of plastic pallets are available in standard EURO and ISO footprints. The EURO footprint is 1200 x 800 mm. The ISO footprint is 1200 x 1000 mm.

Because standard sizes do not suit all needs, professional packaging producer like Logistic Packaging offer clients the option to create customized plastic pallets with specific dimensions.

2. Type of Deck

The deck or surface of the pallet can be open (with perforations) or closed (a solid surface). Open deck plastic pallets are often used for medium to heavy loads. They are also recommended for transporting liquids of various kinds, including bottled beverages or milk. If one bottle breaks during storage or shipping, the liquid will drain through the open deck, instead of pooling and causing damage to other items.

Closed deck plastic pallets are often used for heavy and very heavy loads. In specific situations, the base can be reinforced with steel bars to increase the loading capacity of the pallet.

3. Compatibility with Automated Systems

Plastic pallets are often handled by logistic machinery, such as forklifts. In this situation, your company needs pallets with skids. The forks of the forklift will slide easily into the space between the skids, for a secure hold on the pallet.

On the other hand, plastic pallets with feet offer a better stability on conveyor belts and in stacks (including packing units created with pallet collars).

4. Loading Capacity

The loading capacity of plastic pallets varies from several hundreds to several thousands of kilograms. Of course, it is important to specify the type of loading capacity you need:

• static load – the capacity of a pallet to carry goods while sitting still
• dynamic load – the capacity of the pallet to carry goods while being moved
• stack load – the maximum load a pallet can carry when arranged in a stack with other pallets.

The most lightweight model of plastic pallets is the half-pallet or retail display pallet. These pallets are suitable for displaying products in supermarkets and bear a static load of around 500 kg. At the other end of the spectrum, heavy duty pallets can bear a static load up to 7,000 kilograms.

5. Customization Options

Logistic Packaging can offer your company various customization options for pallets. Some of the most in-demand options are:

• anti-slip surface
• reinforced base
•  load securing accessories: pins, wedges and prisms.

In this way, the pallet becomes suitable for carrying atypically shaped items, offering them optimal stability and protection during shipping.

6. Pallets for Specific Applications

Some industries require specific returnable packaging materials. One example is the electronics industry, supplying both automotive makers and producers of consumer or professional-range electronics. All electronic parts and components must be protected from electrostatic shocks.

For this reason, packaging producers offer a complete range of ESD packages, including ESD plastic pallets. This material prevents all electrostatic discharges, including accidental one caused by friction during handling.

Also, the food and pharma industries have to comply with very strict hygiene standards. Our range of cleanroom plastic pallets, with a simplified design and smooth surfaces, is easy to clean and sanitize, removing all types of contaminants in a standard washing cycle.

Experienced Packaging Producers Can Help You Choose the Best Plastic Pallets!

If you are still unsure what type of plastic pallets your company needs, talk to our experts. We have extensive experience working with clients in various industries. This allows us to recommend the best packaging materials for your application.

Send us an email to describe your packaging project and the Logistic Packaging consultants will prepare a personalized offer!

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