How do you move goods from one location to another? Unless what you are transporting is extremely large or naturally resistant to external influences and easily stackable, pallets are probably the most practical option. Pallets serve the double purpose of protecting your goods from damage and making the best possible use of space in your truck. Instead of loose items scattered across the floor, using pallets allows the goods to be safely stacked upwards, reducing the overall costs of transportation. To achieve all these benefits, answer these questions to purchase pallets for your goods.

Which pallets do you need?

Before you send another shipment, sit down and think through what you need from your pallets. Consider not only the size of the pallet but also the style of the pallet and the material from which the pallet will be made. Making these decisions in advance can help you select the most suitable pallet and prevent delays and breakages from occurring during transit.   

What size will the pallet be?

Determining the size of the pallet you should use is less about the amount of the goods you want to send and more about where the pallet is going and how it will be transported. One advantage pallets have is that they are stackable. For pallets to be stackable, every pallet must be the same shape and size. For international pallets with a destination such as Japan or Korea, you should use an 1100 × 1100 mm iso container. If your goods are staying in Australia and will be moved by rail, an Australian standard pallet with a size of 1165 × 1165 mm would be best. If you don't know what size pallets are used at your intended destination, speak to your shipping company and find out. Using the right size pallet will save everyone considerable inconvenience.

What style should the pallet be?

Most common pallets have three parallel struts which construct their frame, but if a stronger construction is needed to support the weight of your goods, consider a block pallet. Block pallets can support heavier loads without damage. To learn more about the capabilities of each type of pallet and see which is best for your load, talk to your pallet supplier.

Which material would be best?

Most pallets are built from softwood. Hardwood pallets could be worth the investment if you suspect the load could be too great for softwood. If you are shipping internationally, another consideration is whether the pallet complies with ISPM 15 regulations to prevent the spread of invasive species.