Proper pallet handling can make a difference in the efficacy and durability of your wood packaging.
Pallet handling is a critical part of warehouse management, ensuring your products’ safe and efficient movement through the supply chain.
Here, we’ll discuss practices for proper pallet handling that will benefit you and your business.
10 Pallet Handling Tips
Handling pallets correctly keeps your products safe, your team efficient, and your costs in check. Follow these pallet do’s and don’ts to avoid damage, increase safety, and keep operations running smoothly:
Choose the Right Pallet
To perfect your pallet handling, first you need to figure out which pallet is the best fit for you.
Wooden pallets are durable, easily repairable, and relatively affordable compared to other materials, which makes them a popular choice among manufacturers.
Working with a design team can be beneficial, as you can get a custom pallet made for your specific needs. Investing in the custom route will pay off in the form of what you save on in-transit damage.
Focus on Proper Storage
Storage is an essential aspect of good pallet handling.
The correct storage conditions can extend the life of your pallets and reduce situations of pallet failure. Storing pallets inside is optimal because it will help to protect them from the elements (trust us, moisture and pallets do not mix).
However, you can optimize your warehouse for easy pallet access and retrieval. Implementing a systematic pallet storage system can help you keep track of the number of uses and the condition of pallets.
Pallet handling systems also protect employees because a storage system reduces the chance of pallets being stored unsafely.
Don’t Skip Pallet Inspection and Maintenance
Proper pallet handling is dependent on pallet inspection and maintenance.
Having someone regularly inspect pallets for damage and normal wear and tear can extend the life of your pallets. This can also help identify issues early on and repair them before they lead to a bigger problem.
Prioritize Weight Distribution
Weight distribution and loading techniques are an integral part of proper pallet handling.
If you have custom pallets, your supplier should be able to tell you the weight each one of them can hold. Otherwise, standard pallets hold about the same weight, upwards of 4,600 lbs. depending on other factors.
Each employee should have knowledge of what each pallet can hold and the best way to load products, so that weight is evenly distributed.
Employees should be adequately trained and able to understand basic pallet parts and terminology.
Use Efficient Pallet Handling Equipment
Efficient pallet handling equipment is essential for maximizing productivity, reducing labor costs, and protecting both products and pallets.
Tools like pallet jacks, forklifts, and automated guided vehicles can speed up loading, unloading, and storage while minimizing the risk of damage. Choosing the right equipment for your load size, weight, and warehouse layout ensures smoother operations and better safety.
Regular maintenance keeps equipment in top condition, prevents costly breakdowns, and extends its lifespan, making it a smart investment for any pallet-based operation.
Get Your Labeling and Tracking Right
A labeling system makes for easy identification and smoother pallet handling in general.
Label each pallet based on the pallet contents, so that employees have an easier time moving and finding products. In the transportation industry tracking technology is becoming more and more common.
You can adopt this technology to track your products in real time and get a more detailed view of your supply chain, including inventory levels.
Consider the Environment
Things like temperature and environmental conditions play a big role in proper pallet storage and should be an essential part of your overall warehouse management plan.
Factors that can affect pallets when stored outside:
- Moisture from rain or snow can cause wood to swell, warp, or rot.
- Direct sunlight and UV exposure can dry out wood, leading to cracking and splintering.
- Extreme temperature changes can weaken the wood’s structural integrity.
- Ground contact can draw moisture into the pallets and accelerate decay.
- Pest infestations such as termites, ants, or rodents can damage the wood.
- Mold and mildew growth can occur in damp, poorly ventilated conditions.
- Wind and debris can cause physical damage or create safety hazards.
- Dirt and dust buildup can contaminate surfaces, especially for food-grade or sensitive products.
If outdoor storage is unavoidable, use covered, well-ventilated areas and keep pallets off the ground to reduce direct contact with moisture.
Keep Your Safety Protocols Safe
Proper pallet handling goes hand in hand with the safety of your employees.
Establishing protocols that everyone is aware of and reminded of often is the best way to make an impact. This can be done by talking to employees in pre-shift meetings, posting safety posters, and conducting regular training on proper pallet handling.
Proper pallet handling will help to reduce workplace accidents and mistakes.
Understand Pallet Recycling and Sustainability
Sustainability efforts are more important than ever before.
Pallet recycling is a key part of a sustainable supply chain, helping businesses reduce waste, lower costs, and support environmental goals.
Here are a few ways to make your pallets sustainable:
- Choose pallets made from sustainably sourced wood to protect forests and promote responsible harvesting.
- Use lightweight, right-sized pallets to cut shipping costs and reduce carbon emissions.
- Implement a pallet return program with customers or suppliers to keep pallets in circulation.
- Avoid landfill disposal by partnering with pallet recyclers or refurbishers.
- Educate staff on proper handling to prevent unnecessary pallet damage/waste.
However, we do not recommend using recycled pallets, the main reason being that you never know what condition you’re buying.
Collaboration
Partnering with the right suppliers and partners is one of the most important aspects of pallet handling.
You want to make sure you are working with a reliable and dependable supplier that is providing the same quality consistently. They should be easy to communicate with and take any challenges you are facing seriously.
Let Us Help You
Conner Industries is a leading provider of industrial wood and packaging solutions, including custom and standard pallets.
With over 45 years of experience and locations nationwide, we are experts in the wood packaging industry, ready to help you solve any pallet handling challenges you may be facing.
Contact us to see how we can make your life easier today!
