Choosing the right pallet is not enough if it is poorly stored or poorly loaded. A significant share of goods damage and premature pallet wear comes from avoidable mistakes in the warehouse or during transport.
Warehouse storage
Pallets should be stored on a flat surface, away from direct moisture, and for wood, ideally raised off the ground to limit prolonged contact with standing water. Unprotected outdoor storage accelerates wood degradation and encourages mold growth, even on wood treated to ISPM 15 (ST). Stacking empty pallets beyond the height recommended by the manufacturer weakens the lower rows and increases the risk of tipping.
Load distribution
A poorly distributed load on the pallet concentrates weight on a weak point and increases the risk of the boards or blocks breaking. The load must be centered, evenly distributed, and must never exceed the maximum load stated for the format used. For unstable or bulk loads, appropriate film wrapping or strapping prevents shifting during handling.
Handling and transport
When lifting with a pallet jack or forklift, the forks must be correctly centered and inserted the full depth of the pallet to avoid any imbalance. During road transport, insufficient securing remains a common cause of load shifting and damage, particularly on long journeys or uneven roads.
Special case: export
For international shipments, the pallet must not only comply with ISPM 15 (ST) if it is made of wood, but must also be properly wedged inside the container to limit movement during sea transport. Poorly filled space between pallets is a frequent source of damage on arrival.
In summary
The right choice of pallet only protects your goods if storage and handling follow simple rules: a flat surface, a centered and respected load, careful securing. PALIVO advises its industrial and exporting clients on the format and load suited to each use.
