Plastic pallets have become a crucial part of today’s supply chain. Here, Jim Hardisty, Managing Director of Goplasticpallets.com, explains six reasons why plastic pallets reign supreme in the modern-day supply chain.
Unrivalled performance and strength
Plastic pallets are manufactured under enormous pressure and to a precise size specification. This precise process gives the pallet incredible strength, dimensional consistency, and the ability to be used repeatedly. This enables the pallet to work perfectly time and again for at least 10 years giving the user unrivalled performance.
Wooden pallets need to be replaced more frequently. By its nature, wood shrinks and deteriorates over time. When this happens, nails lose their grip and seriously weaken the pallet’s structure, leading the pallet to fail. Broken parts are a serious concern as they can not only damage goods, but if a wooden pallet was to fail in a high bay racking system, it can put lives at risk.
Lightweight means lower fuel costs
Generally, a plastic pallet is lighter than a wooden pallet – almost by a third. Typically, a plastic pallet weighs around 20-22kg, whereas a wooden pallet can weigh around 28-30kg. The weight of a pallet can be a big consideration for organisations who must transport goods.
Hygienic and easy to clean
In industries where hygiene is paramount, like food manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, plastic pallets are the only option. Wood is naturally porous and absorbs water over time leading to a build-up of mould and mildew. This build-up can cause serious health problems if passed on to the end user.
Incredibly long lifespan
The longevity of a plastic pallet is another outstanding benefit. Plastic pallets are designed to last. The lifespan of a plastic pallet is 10 times longer (minimum) than a wooden pallet. During this time, a plastic pallet will require very little maintenance. On the flipside, a wooden pallet will typically only last 11 trips before it needs maintenance or becomes unusable.
Put simply, for every one plastic pallet that lasts you 10 years, you will go through at least nine wooden pallets.
Sustainable and fully recyclable
All of the plastic pallets, boxes, containers and trays we supply are 100% recyclable. In 2019, we pioneered the UK plastic pallet industry’s first plastic pallet recycling scheme, making a commitment to recycle all of the plastic products we supply.
We are committed to driving the circular economy and helping our customers create a sustainable supply chain. Currently, 93% of our plastic pallets are made entirely from recycled plastic, making use of the valuable plastic resource that already exists.
Fast return on investment
Then there is the cost. Where wooden pallets were once the most attractive option because of their low unit price, this is no longer the case. Although plastic pallets remain marginally more expensive per unit, the price gap between the two is at the closest it has ever been.
When the whole life cycle of each pallet is considered, it isn’t long before plastic pallets begin to make a healthy return on your investment.
To find out more please visit www.goplasticpallets.com or get in touch with one of our plastic pallet experts on 01323 744057 or sales@goplasticpallets.com
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