In the world of logistics, pallets are crucial equipment, and they come in various kinds. Wooden pallets are quite popular as they serve the function of logistics in a superior way. While pallets are composed of different kinds of wood, the composition of the wood is determined by the country of origin. The reason is that pallets are simply one part of a much bigger supply system.
Makers of pallets seek wood that serves the best functionality but is also readily available. When the supply of wood is prolific and readily available, there is consistency in the supply chain to create pallets, and most crucially, the price of raw products is inexpensive.
Benefits
Wood pallets are used most commonly around the world, and their pros dominate over their cons. The following are the top benefits of wood pallets:
● Low cost
Wood pallets do not need a big budget and much expenditure. They are available at very low prices, so they are accessible to most people. Nowadays, pallets are used even in markets to set up great platforms to showcase goods.
For example, many groceries and markets mostly use wood pallets to showcase their products before customers. Such pallets are popular worldwide thanks to their affordability, and any person can purchase them at low prices.
Wood pallets are inexpensive compared to other pallet materials. They are cheap because of the ready availability of timber. For shippers in the logistics business, wood pallets are invaluable, like for pooling solutions.
● Low maintenance and simple
It is easy to maintain wood pallets so long as they are protected from rain and moisture. Any excess water can cause the rotting of wooden pallets and reduce their value in a short period. One must always ensure that pallets are in a safe place to prevent absorption of moisture. One should not leave wood pallets out in the open during the season of rains. Or else, one can protect the pallets using a cover that is water-resistant for preventing seepage of moisture into the wood. The only threats to the pallet are dampness and exposure to too much water.
● Strength and durability
Wood pallets are made of high-quality materials. As such, their durability and strength cannot be compromised. Such pallets have tremendous strength and are ideal for shipping bulk or heavy goods. They are suitable for transporting equipment featuring large consignments. As such, wood pallets are a great choice for shippers in the business of logistics, such as for pooling solutions.
● Wide availability
Wood pallets are the best since they are easily available. When one is seeking wood pallets, one need not struggle to find suppliers. There are several suppliers of wood pallets around the globe. Such pallets are easily accessible at a low cost, so one need not take any stress about accessing wood pallets.
● Easily repaired
No matter how careful one is, accidents do happen in the course of the movement of pallets in the process of logistics. Thus, wood pallets face the risk of breakage. But in contrast to other pallet materials, wood pallets can be repaired easily. Broken pieces can be replaced simply using timber, nails, and hammer. The best part is that wood pallets can be repaired by anyone, and one need not hire carpenters to do the same.
● Easily recycled
Wood pallets can be both recycled and upcycled. There is no need to melt them with costly chemicals. All one needs is to exercise one’s creativity and emerge with DIY furniture. The wood pallet can be re-used to create flower beds, fences, tables etc. This way, one can contribute to the well-being of the environment. Those parts of the wood that cannot be recycled can be used as firewood.
● Superior friction
Wood pallets are well known for their high friction in relation to surfaces. Such friction helps in keeping the pallets stable, particularly in a warehouse. This is an amazing quality that ensures the prevention of slippage of pallets during the transport of goods.
● Impact on environment
Wood pallets are an eco-friendly initiative for logistics. Wood can be recycled, and that too by 100%.
● Adaptability
With the passage of time, the transport needs of businesses change, which implies that one should be ready to transport and store various types of wood. Hence, one might be required to change the construction and specification of pallets.
This issue may not be too tough with regard to wood pallets. These pallets can be easily dismantled, and one can transform them in any way for continuing the work. It will save much time and cost.
Wood Used for Pallets
The two most common materials for pallets are Oak and Pine. Oak is hardwood, while pine is softwood. Pine is used frequently in making pallets since it serves as a clean product that can be kiln-dried without resulting in any damage. This makes it ideal for shipping and storing medicinal and food products. Being a softwood, pine is cheaper as they grow faster and are more readily available. They are also easier for cutting and preparation.
In sum, the benefits of wooden pallets are quite obvious, and they are used by several logistics companies, like in the model for pallet pooling.
Marta Jordan is a professional writer & blogger, who writes for a variety of online publications and loves working with words of all shapes and sizes.
