Logistics industries benefit from using pallets to store or transport goods. Pallets make it easy to bundle freight into a consolidated area and transport it as necessary. However, there are several different types of pallets out there, each with their own distinct advantages. Plant managers should consider the pros and cons of different pallet options to figure out which option works best for specialized needs.
Wooden Pallets
Wooden pallets are one of the most popular options. These pallets are among the most common items you’ll find in a warehouse, and they’re indispensable to warehouses, retail outlets, and other similar businesses.
Pros
One of the primary advantages of wooden pallets is their cost effectiveness and availability. As one of the more commonplace options, they’re easy to obtain and work with. Logistics industries can use them to store or transport a wide range of goods from food to appliances.
On top of that, wooden pallets are one of the most sustainable options. As pallets break or fall apart, workspaces may recycle or repurpose them. Pieces in good condition may combine with other pallets to make hybrid pallets. With several different types of wooden pallets on the market, companies can pick and choose models that work best for their needs.
Cons
A notable downside of wooden pallets is that they’re less durable than other options. While companies can repurpose them, that still takes extra time, attention, and money. Wooden pallets are also more susceptible to moisture and may rot or disintegrate over time. Workspaces with higher levels of humidity may struggle with wooden pallets and choose to seek alternative options.
Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets are sturdy, reliable, and another popular option for workspaces. After wood, plastic is one of the most common and popular options, but is it a better choice?
Pros
One of the most significant advantages that plastic pallets have over wood is their resistance to moisture and chemicals, making them more durable. Plastic pallets do not crack or splinter like wooden pallets and do not corrode like metal pallets. While harder to recycle, plastic pallets offer sustainability in their own way. A single workplace may use a plastic pallet hundreds or even thousands of times without needing to replace it.
Cons
Plastic pallets do come with a higher upfront cost than wooden pallets. While you may save money in the long run through their durability and reusability, smaller businesses may struggle to invest in these pallets.
Metal Pallets
Metal pallets are one of the rarer options and work best in specialized scenarios. When considering the pros and cons of different pallet options, metal may offer some beneficial surprises.
Pros
Metal pallets offer the distinct advantage of being the toughest and most durable options. These pallets can hold heavy cargo that would shatter or crack wooden options. Metal pallets can withstand more damage than wooden or plastic ones and are a long-lasting option.
Cons
One drawback with metal pallets is their heavier weight over other pallets. Metal pallets can increase the weight of your shipment by more than 150 percent. This added weight makes metal pallets more difficult to store on high shelves, challenging for equipment to lift, and expensive to ship. Industries working with hazardous materials or chemicals may want to avoid metal pallets because of their risk of corrosion. While there is no singular right answer for the best pallet type, each one comes with its own benefits that suits different businesses. Reviewing these pros and cons will help you make a smarter, more informed decision.
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