More about Pallets

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Pallets are flat wood, plastic or metal platforms used to store, transport and assemble various products. Generally, pallets are used to facilitate the lifting and handling of various types of cargo by a forklift, and they provide a frame for lift forks. They are also used in conjunction with various conveyor systems in order to enhance work flow and product storage.

Pallets are designed for storage on racks with or without decking. Those manufactured for racks with decking require a supporting surface beneath them when loaded. Pallets designed for use on racks without decking can be safely loaded and stored across rack support beams, provided the load does not exceed their maximum capacity. Additionally, pallets provide fork inputs on two or four sides, depending on design.

Wood pallets, although inexpensive and easily produced, are less resistant to certain environmental conditions than plastic pallets. Plastic pallets also provide a wider range of available shapes and configurations; they can be designed for superior ventilation and storage, as well as easier maintenance and cleaning. Because plastic pallets tend to offer improved resistance to moisture and wear, they are typically better suited to multiple uses than wood pallets. Metal pallets also provide significant advantages, and are generally fabricated from steel or aluminum.

In addition to size and storage design, pallets are rated by stationary and transportation load capacity. The maximum load capacity of a pallet is significantly less when being transported than when stationary, and this should be taken into account during the selection process. Because pallets are used for such a wide range of industries (ranging from food processing to marine shipping), they are produced to meet various industry standards, such as slow burn requirements and FDA regulations. Standard pallet size is 48 inches by 40 inches, although a comprehensive range of sizes are available.