Pallets

Buy pallets cheaply and enable the sale of large quantities of goods

There are flat pallets, roll pallets, stanchion pallets, exchange pallets, 2-way and 4-way pallets, as well as the most commonly used type of pallet in Europe: Euro pallets. The Euro pallet is a wooden pallet with standard dimensions of 1200 x 800 x 144 mm. This EPAL pallet, known as an exchange pallet, is also used as a half pallet.

Wooden pallets are also shipped in other standard dimensions. The standardization of pallet formats serves to optimize logistics. It simplifies storage, loading and pallet transportation. By properly securing the transported goods, damage to the loaded packaging can be minimized.

Other materials such as plastic or metal are also favorable for the pallets used today. A chemical pallet is one of the most commonly used industrial pallets measuring 1000 mm x 1200 mm. In supermarkets you can see half Euro pallets measuring 600 mm x 800 mm, also known as Düsseldorf pallets.

Secure and ship goods using the 120x80 cm pallet

Typically, empty or fully loaded wooden pallets are lifted and loaded using a lifting vehicle. The decisive factor here is the pallet width. This must comply with the standard. Secondly, pallet securing is a decisive factor. Securing the transported goods is ensured by means of securing straps or a film cover or film wrapping with stretch film.

In terms of effective logistics planning, the stackability of empty or loaded Euro pallets is advantageous. Loaded pallets can be stored in high load racks. Empty wooden pallets are stacked in depots or warehouses. A load unit consists, for example, of folded books, cartons or lattice boxes with non-stackable goods plus an EPAL pallet. If you want to get away cheaply when buying large pallets, you should fall back on B goods.

The dimensions and properties of the approximately 500 million standardized Euro pallets currently in circulation are defined by the European Pallet Association (EPAL). The standard dimensions of a Euro pallet allow loads to be stowed in railroad wagons, trucks or shipping containers in a space-saving manner. The 1200 x 800 x 144 mm wooden pallets secure each other. The entire cargo space is fully utilized. The payload of a Euro pallet of up to 1,500 kilograms speaks for itself.

The term "Euro pallet" is an abbreviation. It should correctly be called Europool pallet because these wooden pallets belong to the "Europool" exchange system. Standardized exchange pallets were devised by the umbrella organization of Euro pallet manufacturers (EPAL). This is why Euro pallets are often referred to as EPAL pallets. Industrial pallets, which are commonly used in US logistics or in Japan thanks to other standards, can carry the same payload despite their different dimensions. The static load is slightly higher.

For logistical reasons, there is a difference between 2-way pallets and 4-way pallets. With the 2-way pallet, a forklift truck driver can drive under the pallet structure from the front and rear with the fork. The 4-way pallet can be driven under and picked up from all sides. This is advantageous. The design of such pallet constructions is somewhat different. However, whether 4-way or 2-way pallets, buying used pallets cheaply always has advantages for your budget.

Where the term originated and why the old meaning was completely different

The term pallet comes from the French "palette", meaning "small shovel", or the Italian "paletta", meaning "painter's board". This term has been around since the 17th century, although the actual origin lies in the Italian pala for spade or throwing board. This meaning is still etymologically comprehensible when it comes to the color palette of a painter. The standardized wooden construction of the same name, on the other hand, no longer allows much of the original meaning of the word to shine through. A new or used Euro pallet is used to store and load stackable goods for transportation. As standardized loading aids, wooden pallets are indispensable in the transport industry. In Europe, Euro pallets are the preferred means of transporting stackable goods from A to B.

The reuse of Euro pallets as B goods is inexpensive and can bring great cost savings

Wooden pallets combine many advantages in a single loading aid. Euro pallets are known for their high load capacity, resilience and carrying capacity, making them an ideal choice for numerous transportation and storage needs. Within the pallet pool, used Euro pallets can not only be purchased inexpensively, but can also be easily exchanged. Should damage occur to the wooden material, it is often possible to repair the pallet damage instead of replacing it. So it can definitely be said that when customers buy a lot, pallets are the most cost-efficient method of transportation.

These premium pallets impress with their high stability and are also relatively resistant to rotting. Another advantage is their reusability and high recyclability. In the long term, they therefore offer a favorable price-performance ratio. The standardized dimensions of Euro pallets also ensure that they are compatible with any storage system.

When empty, wooden pallets score points for their space-saving stackability, which enables efficient use of space. Their robust construction ensures a resilient surface finish, which proves to be advantageous in many respects. The standardization of Euro pallets also speeds up pallet exchange and contributes to a more effective and space-saving use of space. Overall, Euro pallets therefore offer a range of benefits that make them an outstanding choice in the world of transportation and storage solutions. For companies with high sales figures in particular, pallets are an indispensable aid.

Why shipping pallets in 1200 x 800 mm format is a cost-effective solution in the logistics sector

A qualitative distinction is made between 1st and 3rd choice pallets and various quality classes. Used pallet constructions are sorted into 1st choice and 2nd choice. EPAL pallets can be sold or exchanged. 3rd choice pallets are still usable, but have clear signs of use.

The most important use of Euro pallets and other pallet types is in the logistics and industrial sectors. The lighter plastic pallets, which have so far led a shadowy existence alongside wooden pallets, are currently on the rise. Plastic pallets can be cleaned or disinfected. They are also recyclable and have a longer service life.

However, these plastic pallets are more expensive. They warp more easily under load or in the event of loading errors and cannot be repaired. Metal pallets made of steel or aluminum are largely used in the metal industry due to their weight. They carry heavier loads than wooden pallets and are more durable. Compared to wooden pallets, transportation costs are higher.

All pallet-stacked packaging requires pallet securing. This includes securing the goods on the pallet, but also securing the pallets in trucks, containers or railroad wagons. Safety is essential in the logistics sector. If loads are inadequately secured, packaging can be damaged or loads can become deadly projectiles.

Why a Euro pallet is 120 x 80 cm and what other pallet standards there are

The standard in transportation is the large 120 x 80 cm pallet - more precisely the Euro pallet with the exact dimensions 1200 x 800 x 144 mm. The most important type of pallet in European goods transportation is the Euro pallet.

Around 500 million EPAL exchange pallets are on the move or in use somewhere every day. Whether they are used new or used and serve as 1st choice or 2nd choice pallets for loading a wide variety of packaging makes little difference to the variety of uses. All other types are special pallets. Thanks to the practical option of buying a B Ware pallet online, you can also save good money when transporting goods.

As described, the Euro pallet measures 1200 x 800 mm. It has a static load capacity of 4000 kg and a dynamic load capacity of up to 1500 kg. Euro pallets have a tare weight of around 25 kg. Their shape is angular. Five cover strips form the upper shelves at the top and three slides form the lower shelves at the bottom. A total of nine coils complete the construction. Thanks to this standard, the Euro pallet has become the most successful 2-way pallet or 4-way pallet in the EU. 33 Euro pallets fit on one truck trailer.

The half Euro pallet measures 800 x 600 mm. This multifunctional half pallet can be found in many areas of trade or in the industrial sector. EPAL half pallets are also known as Düsseldorfer pallets or display pallets. Smaller plastic pallets are preferably used in retail and as export pallets due to their dimensions of 600 x 400 mm. These dimensions are compatible with the Euronorm system. This means that these plastic pallets can be perfectly loaded with Euro containers or standard cartons.

Larger plastic pallets measuring 1200 x 1000 mm are in circulation as industrial pallets, block pallets or ISO pallets. These are standardized according to European guidelines. Standardization makes it possible to load industrial pallets with Euro containers and standardized carton sizes. A standard truck trailer holds 26 industrial pallets.

Transport pallets measuring 1000 x 1000 mm can hold four 500 x 500 mm crockery racks. Transporting or storing crockery racks is therefore hygienic and efficient.

Special pallets measuring 1140 x 1140 mm can be found in sea containers. Sea containers have a maximum width of 2.5 meters with an internal size of 2.35 meters. Two pallet constructions can be placed next to each other inside the container. A 40-foot sea container holds a total of 20 of these wooden pallets, a 20-foot sea container is loaded with ten. As more and more people are ordering from online mail order companies and the goods often have to travel by sea, this type of pallet has become increasingly relevant.

Large drum pallets measuring 1200 × 1200 mm are used to store and transport drums. They can be loaded with a maximum of four barrels with a volume of 210 liters. Nowadays, "big bags" filled with sand or rubble are also transported on drum pallets. Trucks with standard dimensions can position two drum pallets next to each other.

1300 x 1100 mm pallets were specially manufactured for the canning industry. They are used to transport canned goods, beverage cans or paint pots. Pallet securing is particularly important for this type of freight, as cans are transported without additional packaging. Special securing measures are needed here for pallet transportation.

How much weight I can load onto a pallet structure and what materials it is made of

The material, dimensions and load-bearing capacity of a pallet must be selected to suit the intended use. The decisive parameters are the static load and the dynamic load. The static load refers to the maximum pallet load with which it may be loaded at the location. As soon as pallets are moved, we are dealing with the dynamic load. The maximum weight must be calculated differently here. If the timber structures are to be exported, they must comply with the standards that apply abroad. The ISPM 15 standard specifies how wooden pallets are to be protected against pests.

Wooden pallets are probably the most commonly used pallet shapes. Their blocks are sometimes made of pressboard. The lighter one-way pallets are made of solid wood. Their static load capacity is 750 kg compared to a dynamic load capacity of 500 kg.

Recycled plastic pallets are made from recycled polypropylene. They can carry loads of up to 2,500 kg during storage. During transportation, however, they may only be loaded with 1,000 kg.

The most environmentally friendly pallet alternatives are made of cast paper fiber. They can be disposed of in the waste paper container. Their static load capacity is comparatively low at 350 kg, their dynamic load capacity is 250 kg.

Pressed wood pallets are made of fresh wood. They are stable and can be loaded with a maximum weight of 2,700 kg. As soon as they are moved, they can only take a load of 900 kg.

Flat cardboard boxes can be transported without pallet aids. They are fitted with polypropylene load carriers or placed on self-adhesive pallet skids made of solid cardboard. Both transport aids allow the pallet truck to be driven underneath.

It is hard to imagine what the logistics sector would be like without the invention of the transport pallet. Without 2-way pallets and 4-way pallets, transport would not be organized effectively. All types of pallets in circulation are convincing due to their reusability and recyclability, their load-bearing capacity, stability and stackability.

Their safe handling and the advantages of standardization make them reliable logistics tools. It was the standard that made the transport pallet the most successful transport aid. Even though surface finishes and load capacities vary, there is a wide variety of inexpensive pallets for all goods and packaging.

The price when buying a shipping pallet depends on the quality class and degree of wear

To transport goods safely, pallets need to be secured. However, you also need to know how to properly stack filled cardboard boxes, barrels, bags or glass bottles. Empty Euro pallets should be stacked horizontally. Pallet areas should always be loaded without gaps. All loaded cartons must form a compact block that is secured with straps or stretch film wrapping. Practical for you: Thanks to our extensive range, you can buy a used pallet from our store and order additional materials such as stretch film or strapping.

The individual layers on the structure are secured with inverted bottoms and hoods if necessary. Securing pallets is just as important as the use of safety shoes and safety helmets by forklift truck drivers. Goods that cannot be stacked are stowed in pallet cages or cardboard boxes.

When loading pallets, it is important to note the significant difference between the static and dynamic load capacity. The static load plays the most important role during storage, the dynamic load during transportation. If necessary, wooden pallets that are too heavily loaded must be repacked.

Many types of pallets are used so frequently today that they have become a scarce commodity. This means that many companies have to continue using 2nd or 3rd choice pallets, even though they have dirty surfaces or are getting on in years.

In the accident statistics, however, stacking errors lead over wear-related accidents. The improper stacking of books, boxes or other goods, as well as the improper removal of heavily loaded loading aids from a high-load rack often lead to accidents.

Overall, however, the safety of this means of transportation is very high. Even with a high degree of wear and tear and a dirty surface, most pallet constructions perform well. Roughened or soiled surfaces are not a defect. Pallet constructions that can no longer be repaired, have broken slats or legs or are often used and lack stability are sorted out.

You are probably asking yourself "How much do pallets cost"? The decisive factor for the value of an EPAL Euro pallet is its condition. These are divided into different quality classes. Premium pallets with the grade "New" are distinguished from the grades A, B or C. The differentiating factor is the degree of wear. Damage occurs, for example, when a pallet is pushed. Euro pallets in grade C are only suitable for use as a substructure for wooden decking, for example. You can see from our range of pallets that buying large pallets is cheap. Buying and ordering pallets is therefore worth considering if you need them for shipping.

The answer to the question "How much does a 120x80 cm pallet cost" and why it makes sense to use the EPAL exchange system

Euro pallets, which have been used in the international transportation of goods and merchandise since 1961, offer considerable advantages as reusable pallets due to their exchangeability. The term "exchange pallet" means that the recipient of fully loaded EPAL Euro pallets can exchange empty pallets from his own stock for the Euro pallets he has received.

It is possible to return freight with your own empty pallets or to purchase pallets. It is also possible to arrange compensation via pallet accounts when it comes to exchanging larger pallet stocks. At Verpacking.com you can buy the B Ware pallet cheaply and from as little as €20.11.

Why pallet recycling is good for the environment

Euro pallets are economical. They impress with their reusability and recyclability. Used pallet constructions without a quality grade are upcycled. They are used as terrace underlayment, provide futon underlays, serve as raised beds or are planted in other ways.

The material has little impact on the environment. Wood is decomposable and can be used for recycling. Plastic and metal pallets are melted down. This reduces the burden on the ecosystem considerably.

For wooden pallets, two shredders are used to separate the wood components from the metal. If the surface is not contaminated, the wood chips are burned in the company's own biomass heating plants. Otherwise, they are used to dry soaked wooden pallets. Pallet return systems, repair options, exchange pallets and recycling options ensure an environmentally friendly service life.

Buying used pallets online is cheap thanks to different quality classes

When used EPAL pallets are sold, they are offered in different quality classes. A distinction is made between used pallets in quality class A, quality class B and quality class C. When labeled as 1st choice pallets, there is only a small amount of wear. The wooden pallets have only been used once for storage or transportation. However, the EPAL repair nail on the center block should still be present.

B-goods pallets or C-goods pallets only have visual defects. They are therefore classified as 2nd choice Euro pallets. Despite varying degrees of soiling, their maximum load capacity is not restricted. EPAL Euro pallets are only rejected if they are irreparably damaged or too heavily contaminated. You should therefore not shy away from buying pallets of this quality.

When Euro pallets have reached the end of their useful life, they are recycled or upcycled. Discarded Euro pallets are converted into pallet furniture or pallet beds. DYI applications are also very popular. More and more allotment gardeners are using four old wooden pallets to create raised beds that can be planted in, for example.