What to look for in a plastic pallet
Plastic pallets have become an increasingly popular alternative to wood pallets. They’re durable, hygienic, customizable and consistent in size and weight. But not all plastic pallets are created equal. Choosing the right pallet can save your business money, reduce waste, and improve safety. The wrong pallet can mean damaged products and supply chain inefficiencies. Here are some important things to look for when choosing a plastic pallet.
Load capacity
In one sense, the most important consideration is not the pallet itself but your product and the handling equipment in your supply chain and warehouse. Accurately assessing your equipment and the size, shape and weight of your load will lead you to the right pallet. Plastic pallets come in various designs and capabilities. Some can handle 10,000 pounds or more. You won’t need that for every job, but a pallet that’s not up to the task can damage products and equipment.
Durability
The durability of a plastic pallet is directly related to its lifespan and cost-effectiveness. Your plastic pallet needs to be up to the demands of your operation but that doesn’t mean every pallet has to be heavy-duty and expensive. A lightweight, economical pallet can be perfect if longevity is not an issue, such as in one-way shipping, or the job is not too demanding. The type of material used, the production method, and the design all affect a pallet’s strength and durability. Additionally, take note of whether the pallet will be exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. Manufacturers, such as CTC Plastics, can help you pick the right pallet or even custom design a pallet to meet your needs.
Industry regulations
Certain industries such as food and pharmaceuticals have strict regulations covering pallet design, material, and maintenance. In general, plastic pallets make it easier to meet these regulations because they’re easier to clean and don’t splinter. But even with plastic, it’s important to know the requirements of a given industry to choose the appropriate pallet.
Pallet size
Despite moves toward standardization, pallet sizes vary by country, region and industry. In North America, the 48- by 40-inch pallet of the Consumer Brands Association is the workhorse. It works with North American and European standard racking and fits well in standard shipping containers. Even industries that use their own unique pallets internally will use CBA pallets when shipping.
Pallet type
Plastic pallets may be rackable, stackable or nestable. Rackable pallets are durable and made to carry a heavy load when placed on a rack in a warehouse. Sturdy stackable pallets may be stacked while shipping. Nestable pallets are ideal where space is limited. They can be nested when not in use to save space. Pallets also offer two-sided or four-sided fork-lift access, which can affect their strength and maneuverability. Choose a pallet type that best suits your needs and infrastructure.
Maintenance
Plastic pallets are durable but require maintenance over time to keep them in optimal condition. Consider the pallet’s cleaning and repair requirements before making a purchase. With proper maintenance and cleaning, plastic pallets can last a decade or more.
Customization
Pallet manufacturers can often customize the size, color and design of a plastic pallet and incorporate special features, such as RFID tags and anti-slip surfaces. A custom design can help streamline your supply chain operations.
CTC Plastics: Sturdy, sustainable, custom pallets
CTC Plastics manufactures a wide array of plastic pallets using recycled material and built to handle the heaviest of loads. The company’s blended formulas can meet a customer’s specific application – whether that’s one-way use, a multi-trip closed loop, or harsh environments. CTC pallets are eco-friendly and resistant to pest infestation, mold, and mildew. What’s more, once you’re finished with your pallets, CTC will buy them back to be recycled for another project. That adds to your bottom line. Choosing the right plastic pallet can save you money, reduce waste, and improve supply chain efficiency. CTC Plastics has the right pallet for you.