Image: Pixabay

The logistics world runs on pallets. These simple wooden constructions are at the heart of the reason why logistics chains and fulfilment centres dominate the world of ecommerce.

Why is this, you ask? Well, they’re incredibly easy to load onto lorries using a forklift, they’re recyclable and easily stackable. In this post, courtesy of the packaging and logistic chain experts at Kendon Packaging, we’ll explain how businesses can harness the power of these humble pieces of wood to gain an advantage over the competition.

Create a recycling network

Bulk buying pallets is pleasingly cheap compared to other business expenses, but trouble arises when you’re buying sets of pallets over and over again instead of re-using them. Pallet recovery and re-use is an important part of any logistics chain, so make sure this operation is just as slick as your fulfilment process.

You can also use pallets to transport other recyclable material to recycling centres, such as leftover cardboard packaging or HDPE plastic, meaning your efforts to reduce environmental impact will be organised and dispatched in the same way as your efforts to fulfil orders for your customers.

Stack your lorries safely

Accidents do happen in warehouses, often when loading lorries. Improperly secured loads can rattle around in the trailer, harming the merchandise and making it harder for you to truly optimise all the precious space in the back of a HGV.

A palletised system with a clear and safe loading system (involving plenty of plastic pallet wrap) will mean that accidents will become rarer, and your lorries will be safely filled to the brim with stock, maximising supply chain efficiency.

Organise more effectively

Not every warehouse is a spotless, efficient place to be. Clutter and disorganisation can blight even the largest company’s organisational space, so it pays to be aware of strategies that can mitigate this, or even stop it in its tracks.

Pallets can be used to organise storage in a simple way – pre-packing certain items on pallets will mean they’re ready to go as soon as the order is put in, especially when they’re placed in a convenient area for quick access with a forklift.

Make sure they’re packed properly

We’ve left arguably the most important aspect until last – how you pack your pallet. Doing this properly is both a safety and efficiency conscious thing to practice in your business – and it’s fairly simple.

You should always make sure that your biggest items are packed towards the bottom of the pallet – the same logic that you use when doing the weekly shop applies here. Make use of ratchet straps if you’re shipping an oddly shaped item, and you should always use plastic pallet wrap, especially if your cargo includes food items.

Image: Unsplash

Whatever size your logistical operation may be, you’ll need to use pallets at some point. We hope this post has given you plenty of ideas regarding how you can use these simple pieces of wood to your advantage. After all, efficiency and organisation are paramount in this business, and pallets are the ideal solution to these problems.

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