Pallet Guide: What Pallets Can I Use?

All businesses at the beginning of their journey, be them online gift shops or wholesale manufacturers, will reach a point when you will have to ship a pallet. You may even have to ship several pallets at one time depending on demand. 

For this reason, it would be beneficial for you to become familiar with all pallet types available to you. Our team of experts are always on hand to answer any queries regarding pallets. 

You must get an understanding of which pallet types you can use before you book a pallet delivery.

If you would like a FREE quote for pallet delivery anywhere in the UK, you can do so below in just a few easy steps. But in the meantime, here is our pallet guide to help you prepare your goods for delivery.

What Type of Pallet Should I Use

The answer to this question comes down to two important factors. First and foremost, your budget plays a big role as you wouldn't want to overspend on pallets.

Just like when you shop for anything else, the most expensive option isn't always the best. Sometimes, you can get a great deal on pallets that offer excellent value for your money. It's a good idea to chat with friends and colleagues for recommendations as word of mouth is a fantastic way to start your search.

Secondly, think about what you're shipping. If you're sending a small batch of fruits, a standard wooden pallet should do the trick. But if you're dealing with heavy items like flat-packed furniture, you'll need a larger, sturdier pallet.

Selecting the right pallet is crucial to ensure a safe and successful delivery, making sure everything reaches its destination in one piece.

Wood Pallets

Wood pallets are typically the most common type of pallet and are normally preferred by most pallet couriers thanks to their strength and ability to be easily repaired. Moreover, wood pallets come with much higher friction, making them easier to grip when handling.

Also, these pallets are usually used for heavy-duty products. Wood pallets are more versatile and environmentally-friendly, as they can be recycled into paper and may other wood-based every-day products. 

Presswood Pallets

Also known as engineered wood, Presswood is made from wood fibres that have been processed at high pressure and temperature to form a single block. 

Presswood pallets are quite light and come with decent strength, which is the reason for their popularity in logistics and wholesale in particular. However, the downside is that they are not quite water-resistant and are not as strong as wooden pallets. 

Plywood Pallets

In the case of light to medium goods, plywood pallets are probably your best choice. Unlike other types, plywood pallets are extremely lightweight and can survive rough usage (when being handled during shipping and in storage etc.). 

Compared to wood pallets and Presswood pallets, plywood is renowned for being much more resistant to moisture, damp and bug infestations. But on the other hand, they can easily degrade if not properly treated and maintained.

To learn the best ways of treating your pallets, visit our Help Centre. You can find more information on wooden pallet treatment recipes and top tips on how to store and handle them safely, too. 

Alternatively, you can always research how other couriers or manufacturers treat their pallets and how they store them. Either way, if you are unsure, there is no shame in asking for advice!

Metal Pallets

Usually made of aluminium or other light metals, metal pallets can be reused for quite some time. Also, they are free from pest infestation and do not degrade.

However, the downside is that they cannot be repaired easily – that and the fact that they are usually quite heavy, an aspect that increases the shipping costs.

Plastic Pallets

The plastic pallet is resistant to most, if not all, of the issues mentioned so far, including chemical corrosion, stress, and shock. It is also quite stable and versatile.

Still, given the way it is manufactured, it can be very hard to repair such a pallet. Even if a crack is repaired, the pallet won’t regain its initial strength. Plastic pallets are also quite expensive and cannot be recycled.

Corrugated Board Pallets

Probably the simplest of pallets, this type can withstand up to 750kg of weight. The corrugated board pallets are usually lightweight and can be customised.

However, keep in mind that they are not suited for regular and/or repeated use. Moreover, they are prone to damage when exposed to various weather elements.

Types of Pallets – Configuration

When it comes to configuration, pallets can be found in five types:

• Block/ Deck Board Pallets – allows forklift access from all directions; their upper deck is supported by twelve columns of metal, plastics, or wood from the bottom. They come with high handling efficiency.
• Stringer Pallets – comes with increased support when compared to block pallets. Stringer pallets are equipped with two boards running across two opposite sides of the pallet, thus blocking forklift access from those sides.
• Double Face Pallets – this type of pallet has a top and a bottom deck that can be used with any side up, an aspect that also increases the pallet’s strength.
• Double Wing Pallets – they have the top and bottom deck extending beyond the stringers to offer additional surface area.
• Solid Deck Pallets – fit for transporting smaller items, these solid deck pallets have a continuous sheet of metal, plastic, or wood with no spacing.

Don’t forget, we offer cost-effective solutions regardless of your pallet size or material. Get your FREE quote today and we will aim to cater for your needs!

For more information regarding sending a pallet delivery, please do not hesitate to get in touch. You can either send a message using our Live Chat service or give us a call and speak with us directly. 

Our friendly customer care team are always happy to help, no matter what your preferences or requirements.