Pallets are mainly crates or stands that are used to store and transport goods. Chemicals, pharmaceuticals, foods and beverages, small equipment, textile and perishables products are packed and shipped with these crates. They can be segregated into rackable and non-rackable storage systems. If you want to store your goods in different racks or shelves, then you can choose the rackable pallet or can use the non-rackable one for storing heavy goods.
Apart from these, other types of crates such as the double sided, four-sided, shuttle, roll cradle, reinforced and newspaper crates are also available in the market.
Realizing the increasing indispensability of pallets in domestic and export trade, advanced technology is being introduced in their manufacturing process making them stronger and long lasting.
Wooden Vs Plastic Pallets:
Pallets are mostly made of plastic, wood or cardboard. Earlier, people used to ship their products in wooden crates because they were cost effective, durable and eco-friendly. But wooden crates can get affected by fungus, humidity level, pests, and insects. In this regard, plastic pallets are more convenient options for you because they are heat resistant, durable and you can easily operate them with forklifts. Apart from that, plastic crates are light weight, easy to handle, recyclable and cost effective. Even plastic crates do not get affected by insects and pests.
So now you can replace your wooden crates with thermoplastic crates. But in cases of international shipments, you should be well versed in the custom rules and regulations. Most foreign custom departments do not accept plastic crates thereby making the use of heat-treated wooden pallets Imperative.
Size of The Pallets Available in The Market:
Pallets are available in different sizes, such as 800 x 1200mm and 1000 x 1200mm. You can also customize your crates by informing the manufacturer of your specific requirements. You can also use these customized crates for your advertising and branding by printing your company logo, product descriptions and other necessary details on these crates. If you have a limited budget, then you can buy refurbished wooden crates.
Different Types of Materials Used for Pallets:
Wood: Wooden crates are the most common design with either softwood or hardwood. Softwood crates are known as a stringer or two-way crates. People can easily operate these crates with their forklift. On the other hand, crates made of hardwood are known as block pallets. These block crates can be used for transportation of heavy goods.
Plastic: Plastic crates are an excellent option for shipping because you can use them many times and you do not need to bear any damage cost. They are durable, recyclable and cost effective. But the plastic crates cannot be repaired as the wooden ones, and after several uses, they need to be disposed of.
Metal: Metal crates are generally used for heavy cargo businesses and are expensive and heavy weight crates. Most of these metal crates are designed with stainless steel, aluminum, and carbon steel.
Cardboard or Paper: You can use the cardboard or paper crates for your lightweight goods. These crates are durable, affordable and you can use them for your regular shipment. But since these cardboard or paper crates cannot bear heavy loads, they cannot be used for industrial purposes.
Today, different types of crates can be searched for, online, and pallet manufacturing company contacted through their official websites. But it is only after a price comparison and inspection of the various providers sample products that the best pallets, according to your needs should be chosen.
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