Preparing your pallets for transport doesn’t have to be difficult. However, there are a few key points to remember to ensure that pallet delivery can run smoothly and that your items can reach their destination in the most efficient way possible. This guide will give a run through of how you can prepare your pallets before handing them over to your logistics services provider.
1. Choose your pallet
The first step to successfully getting your pallets ready for delivery is to choose your pallet and make sure it meets your individual requirements. The standard pallet size in the UK is 1200 x 1000mm, however you’ll also need to bear in mind whether you need a quarter, half or full pallet. This will depend on the size of the goods you wish to transport, and you should measure these accurately to have a good idea of how much space you need to purchase.
Another important thing to note is that all pallets should be in good condition. Never use pallets with missing, broken or split boards, as these cannot safely hold and distribute the weight of goods. Similarly, you should take into account the total weight bearing capacity of your pallet and check this against the weight of your goods.
2. Stack your pallet
Next, it’s time to stack your pallet. This should be done methodically to ensure you utilise the space available efficiently. When stacking, always load heavier items at the bottom; this will give your pallet a strong base and prevent buckling. Additionally, stacking your items in columns maximises the integrity of the pallet load, and will also make Step 3 much easier.
Always remember to avoid overhang. All of your items should fit on the pallet, and nothing should be hanging off of the pallets edges. Overhang weakens the overall pallet and can also lead to items getting damaged. Furthermore, logistic services turn away pallets with overhang as this prevents the efficient use of space within a lorry delivering multiple pallets.
3. Secure your pallet
Once you have stacked your pallet properly, avoiding overhang, you need to secure it. There are a number of ways to do this, involving strapping and wrapping- both should be used for maximum security and protection.
Pallet wrapping
Stretch film is highly suitable for palletisation, as it wraps goods securely, ensuring that they cannot move around and sustain damage throughout the delivery process. This is where the shape of your pallet really matters- a well stacked pallet will be much easier to wrap than one with gaps or irregularities. Start at the base of the pallet and begin wrapping with stretch film, working your way up to the top. Ensure all corners are covered with wrap. You should repeat this until the pallet feels secure enough for transit.
Pallet strapping
Wrapping should be followed by strapping. You can use straps or wraps around the base of your pallet which will help to prevent items slipping or moving around. Stability can also be improved with elastic bands.
4. Label your pallet
The final step to preparing your pallets for transport is to clearly label your pallet. Key information to include on labels is the from and to addresses, contact details, weight of the load, and whether any items are fragile. Labelling fragile pallets is very important and ensures that your goods get to their destination in one piece. This will also alert drivers and anybody else handing your pallets not to stack other goods on top of yours.
By following these 4 simple steps, you can easily prepare your pallets for transport without making mistakes which could jeopardise the security and condition of your goods.
Welch’s Transport is partnered with Palletline, meaning that we can guarantee an excellent pallet distribution service across the UK and Europe. With an ethos built around quality and performance, Palletline is the original and leading UK pallet distribution specialist. To find out more about the pallet delivery services we offer at Welch’s Transport, please fill out our contact form. Alternatively, give us a call on +44 (0)1223 843011 or email us at [email protected] .