Freight packaging sometimes requires palletization, which is intended to keep shipment together and secure and safe in transit. Pallets have flat surfaces that create a foundation for the freight to be positioned on. While pallet shipping is a highly economical form of transporting freight and the process appears simple enough, it requires thorough planning and certain specific actions to be taken to avoid unwanted mistakes that could damage the freight. Let’s take a look at what to avoid when shipping pallets.
Not Choosing Appropriate Pallet For Your Freight
If the wrong pallet is selected for shipment, it could mean disaster for the security of the freight during transit. First consider the material that the pallet is made from and avoid material that is slick, such as egg cartons that will likely shift during transport. It’s best to select pallets that are made of sturdy wood that can stand up to the weight of the freight that is will be supporting. Structural integrity is essential as it relates to pallets Choosing the right size pallet is also important to be able to accommodate the weight of the freight and to allow forklift access on all sides for loading and unloading. Also look for signs of protruding nail heads and damage to the pallet boards. While wood pallets are the standard, plastic, metal and corrugated pallets are also available on the market and may be more ideal for particular specialized shipping needs.
Failing to Properly Pack Individual Boxes
Getting the right pallet is key, but if you fail to properly pack the individual cartons or boxes before stacking, it doesn’t matter the chosen pallet won’t matter. The content of the cartons or boxes shouldn’t be allowed to shift from side to side during transport, and so, it’s necessary to fill in excess space with some sort of packing paper that can serve as a cushion and offer impact protection.
Not Securing Your Pallet Correctly
An added measure of precaution doesn’t hurt when it comes to shipping pallets. Cargo straps are often used by many shippers to secure the freight to the pallets. Proper freight containment requires that the straps be wrapped entirely around the pallet and through the forks while remembering to ratchet the straps in place greater fit and security. In other instances, shrinking wrapping is used to secure the freight; it’s generally recommended to wrap the freight five full times from top to bottom treating it as a single unit. The key should be ensuring that the freight is held firmly in place during transport to avoid damage.
Inadequate Stacking
You want to avoid a top-heavy freight scenario when stacking pallets, where the heavier items are placed on top of the pallet in the initial stage and lighter items placed on the bottom. This biggest problem created is the freight becoming prone to tipping over because the weight is not distributed evenly. Heavy items should be placed on the bottom and lighter items on the top when stacking to increase strength and stability, security and reduce the risk of damage.
Incorrect Labeling
It can be a real headache if you neglect to properly label your shipment. It doesn’t suffice to have a single label on one side of the pallets. Ideally, all pallets should have a shipping label on either side that clearly highlights key information that includes, sender and recipient names and addresses, shipment date, number of units being shipped, tracking number, among other pertinent information.Extreme Packing Solutions can meet your pallet shipping needs from start to finish. With unparalleled customer service and high-quality products, you can expect guaranteed satisfaction when it comes to your shipment. For a free estimate, contact us directly on our website or call us at (978) 232-9190.