With the rise in E-commerce, demand for pallets that transport every consumer commodity or industrial part is surging. As a result of this, merchants and manufacturers are being compelled to expand their warehouses and stack their inventory higher utilizing pallets.

Pallets provide the foundation of a unit load, which is a typical technique to ship products that can be moved easily using jacks and forklifts. They are the first line of defense in ensuring that goods arrive in the same condition as they left the carrier. On top of that, they are so common in the supply chain that any modifications to how they work could have a significant impact on the entire shipping process. In fact, they have formed the backbone of the logistics sector for generations and are the point of contact between shipments and various forms of transportation in the global supply chain.

What exactly is a pallet?

Pallets are lightweight, sturdy wood or plastic frames used to combine cargo and make transportation easier. Typically, they are flat structures that support cargo and containers to make shipping more efficient. It has a top and bottom board, and its consistent design makes stacking and storage simple.

Palletizing goods keep multi-piece shipments together for the duration of their voyage. This helps protect your cargo, makes loading and unloading easier and faster, and allows carriers to maximize trailer capacity.

How do you pick the right pallet type for your shipping needs?

Before you choose the best pallet type for your shipping needs, you have to be aware that they come in a variety of materials. A basic wood, cardboard or plastic pallet is often the preferred choice.

When using a wooden pallet, you must know that:

• It is suitable for heavy items
• It is widely available and cheaper than plastic
• It can be reused
• For international shipping, ensure the wood is treated according to international standards for the markets where it will be sold
• To boost stability, make sure the pallet has bottom bracing.

When using a cardboard, you must know that:

• It is 100% recyclable
• It is meant for single use only
• It is lightweight
• It costs less
• It is not suitable for heavy goods and in humid environments.

When using a plastic pallet, you must know that:

• It is pricier than wooden pallets in comparison
• It has an anti-slip surface and high payload capacity
• It is resistant against corrosion and humidity

Here are some easy steps to prepare a pallet for shipping

Step 1: Pick the ideal pallet size

Choose a pallet that is large enough to accommodate everything without any items dangling over the sides. It should be strong enough to support the load and, ideally, have forklift access. Check that all the boards are secure with no protruding nails.

Step 2: Make sure the pallets are stacked correctly

When it comes to stacking the pallets, there are two ways to do it.

a) Column stacking

Stacking the boxes like a column stabilizes the pallet.

b) Interlocking stack

Interlocking stacks will result in greater pallet stability if the goods inside a box are rigid.

Step 3: Securely load the goods on the pallet

Make sure your items fit properly on the pallet with no boxes drooping over the edge to limit the danger of damage. Wrap the package five to six times using shrink-wrap. This will help standardize the shipment's structure while also protecting it from dust and moisture. Strapping can also be used for added protection.

As you wrap the pallet and shipment with the strap, remember to tie it to the pallet's bottom and work your way to the top. Repeat the strapping in all directions until the load is securely fastened with at least four straps. This will ensure that everything is balanced and safe before shipping time.

Step 4: Add a label to the pallet

Check to see if the product label is legible. Labels must be placed on the sides of the pallets if they are stacked for shipment. Be as specific as possible and be sure to give both parties' zip codes on the label.

How can DHL Express be your best shipping carrier?

At DHL, we take care of all your logistics operations, be it picking your goods or ensuring a successful last-mile operation. Our door-to-door express network offers the world’s foremost time-definite international delivery service. Moreover, we make sure that all your goods are packed and labeled carefully with the necessary Harmonized System (HS) code to clear your package in customs.

Our goal as a team is to enhance and improve the overall quality of packing, thus we pay close attention to size and weight restrictions when shipping pallets. Therefore, make sure your pallet height does not exceed 160 cm. If you need further assistance, contact the DHL office for more information.