Half-year results from the Association of Pallet Networks (APN) show steady volumes across the sector, with high service levels and booming B2C demand. Overall pallet volumes remained very similar to the first six months of 2025, with almost 15 million pallets delivered across the UK. There was substantial growth in half and quarter pallets, at +3.2% and +2.6% respectively, but a slight decrease in full pallets, suggesting that end users and retailers may be ordering smaller quantities. For the first time full pallets are significantly less than half the total shipped.
This article was first published in the November 1st 2026 issue of Warehouse & Logistics News, subscribe to the magazine by clicking here.
Pallet networks were originally invented to create a more cost-effective method for delivering small consignments of palletised freight across the country – before this, hauliers would either have to delay delivery until they had a full vehicle load heading for the same destination or run vehicles with very few pallets on them at great monetary and environmental cost. Nowadays, pallet networks achieve a vehicle utilisation that is 50% higher than the wider road freight transport sector, taking vehicles off the road and reducing mileage per pallet, says Pall-Ex. It’s not only their green credentials that make pallet networks a popular choice; you also benefit from lower costs, a choice of service levels (next-day, economy, and timed options available), delivery to all UK postcodes, international delivery options and tracking updates and ETAs.
Liverpool’s SSO Logistics has added a first electric vehicle to its fleet with a nod to its northern brethren and the growing female representation within the business. Haydock and St Helens-based SSO has invested £54,000 in a new Renault Traffic E-Tech Electric, adorned with a unique, Oasis-inspired ‘She’s Electric’ livery devised by SSO group CEO Peter Draper. The vehicle will be used for pallet deliveries within the WA postcode, which Carbon Certified Business SSO covers for Pallet-Track.
Palletways UK has reached a major milestone following the decision by Lichfield District Council to grant unconditional planning permission for a brand new bespoke headquarters in Fradley. Developed in partnership with Prologis UK, the facility will support the continued growth of the express palletised freight network across the region. With planning permission secured, the project moves directly into the delivery phase, with construction expected to commence in November 2026.
At this year’s Gala & Awards Dinner, hosted by Colin Murray, The Pallet Network gave partners the opportunity to recognise each other’s hard work and dedication to the network, with the Partner of the Year award. A single request was made to nominate the TPN Partner you believe has gone above and beyond to support the network in the last year. The volume and quality of nominations made choosing one winner impossible so, this year, two Partners of the Year were awarded: GCN Scotland and Riva South.
Despite strong cost pressures in the economy, pallet volumes have remained relatively steady, which is a testament to the value and service UK pallet networks offer.
George Simpson
Features Editor
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