subject: Canadian Pallets [print this page] The purchase or rental of pallets is often viewed as an insignificant detail in business. In order to succeed in business and in some cases meet standards, pallets are an essential component of commerce.
The classic or basic pallet is developed in a box style using heat-treated wood products for construction. Due to the need of transport using different devices including a forklift or pallet jack, pallets are designed with carefully measure openings to be 'lift friendly'. Normally a load is secured on a pallet with the use of strapping, stretch or shrink wrap for shipments. The most ordinarily used pallet in North America is a perfect square of 42 inches by 42 inches. Pallet dimensions vary from country to country and by use. By using a square shape, the load on the pallet is stable and substantially less likely to tip. Other specialized dimensions are used to accommodate loading dock doors, storage containers and warehouse specifications. When necessary, pallets may additionally be designed for basic doorways. Custom designs are presented to meet customer needs.
A number of pallets are constructed using galvanized metals, aluminum, engineered wood products (such as plywood or particle board) hard plastic or even paper.
The pallet was initially designed to help with the import and export of various goods internationally. Using pallets greatly benefited the military as staff were freed up for service. The pallet industry increased as the need for reliable freight transport increased. The pallet has now become the standard used in the shipment of any kind of products or goods.
The pallet has been designed for the following: 1) Reliable transportation, 2) Storage of products (e.g. stockyard, shed, or warehouse), 3) Simple stacking and 4) To comply with Food Safety standards.
When it comes to being able to safely store various items of diverse weights a pallet is a necessity. Warehouses for instance, use pallets to store goods that cannot be moved manually. This is where design and quality of materials is critical. As goods may be stored for an extended length of time, the wood used cannot decay or break down easily. Heat-treated wood products are heated to a temperature of 56 C (132.8 F) for a half-hour to meet safety standards. Other treatments have been used over the years but most have been banned due to environmental standards. Outdoor storage yards that use pallets require that the wood stand up under undesirable weather conditions.
High standards throughout the food industry have further enforced the use of pallets for shipping and transportation. The ease of shipment and mobility of goods is improved with the use of pallets. When it comes to world-wide shipments, pallets must be specially treated to meet the specifications of the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM 15) dealing with possible transport of diseases, insects, plants or other infectious materials from other countries during transport.
Pallets are key in the food industry so as to store products raised from the floor. Pallets have become an integral part of the food industry being used in warehouses, on production lines and in freezers. Another big use of pallets has been for stacking purposes. Because the pallets are even, balancing is a simple task as is finding ample storage space for merchandise. As a result, forklift operators can quite easily manoeuvre product and stack it in an orderly fashion. Pallets also allow use of other storage options such as shelving.
When deciding to use a pallet company take care to investigate the company's safety standards, repair and maintenance politics and recycling programs for old pallets. Due to the modern environmental concerns, more companies are beginning to recycle their wood products. Often simple repairs are required such as replacing a few boards or securing devices. You will find that selected companies are more diligent in ensuring the integrity of their product. In order to save money, think of using recycled or used pallets. This may save you money in the long run but be sure the company's reputation is solid and their product standards are high.
Whatever you decide, carefully investigate any company and their programs before deciding to use recycled products. Be sure to perform your own inspection preceding purchase or rental as some company inspections are more in-depth than others.
Discounts may apply for returning aged or used pallets. Ask for any deals that may be obtainable. Though the use of pallets may be seen as insignificant, their use may conserve you money, provide storage options and assist you greatly in the operation of your business.
