Pallet Logistics
Pallets - There's more to them than you think!
"A pallet is just some wood nailed together to put stuff on right”? The answer is “No not really”. A pallet has to be a specific size and configuration for various applications and different country standards.
The UK standard size is 1000mm x 1200mm whereas on the continent they use a smaller version measuring 800mm x 1200mm. For International Trade the wood used in a pallet has to conform to ISPM15, an international phytosanitary measure issued by the International Plant Protection Convention, a department within the United Nations.
This means that the wood used in the pallets should be heat treated or fumigated to prevent the spread of pests and plant disease. Large wooden pallet manufacturers and distributors like Whirlowdale based in Rotherham, have their own equipment to construct compliant pallets and issue supporting documentation where appropriate. Wood is not the only material used to make pallets. There is a growing market in the use of plastic pallets and this is an area where Whirlowdale are a leading supplier.
Plastic pallets are particularly suitable for food, pharmaceuticals and other specialist goods with the added advantage of being ISPM15 compliant, as plastic is inorganic. The other advantages of plastic pallets are that they are consistent in size and strength, easy to clean and have a longer working life; with the additional benefit of often being made from recycled material. The plastic pallets supplied by Whirlowdale meet all the relevant standards including ISO8611 to ensure a high quality product.
Palogistics® - Pallet Logistics
Pallets when put into circulation, whether ISPM or otherwise, are difficult to keep control of. For large users Whirlowdale operate their unique Palogistics® system where a pallet is tracked over its life until it is ready to be reconditioned or recycled. This ensures that companies have an adequate supply of suitable pallets.