How to prepare a pallet for shipping
HOW TO SHIP
Shipping services for goods loaded on pallets
PACKING GUIDELINES
How to pack and load pallets for shipping
When preparing and packing your pallet for shipping, it is important to ensure that the goods are loaded securely to avoid damage during transport. Packing pallets correctly is also essential to minimise the risk of injury during handling. Our packing guidelines for pallets will explain how to safely and securely pack your pallet for shipping.
1. Choose the right pallet
2. Stack in columns
3. Do not overhang
4. Keep it flat
5. Strap and wrap
6. Label clearly
How to secure the load on the pallet for transport
Once you have loaded the goods onto the transport pallet, check below further tips and materials you can use to secure the shipment properly:
- Foam cushioning – Select a foam with the appropriate density to protect your goods.
- Blocking – Use materials such as wood to ‘block’ or hold the items in place on the pallet.
- Bracing – Use straps or ropes around the pallet base to fasten items prone to shifting or rolling.
- Layer pads – Use corrugated cardboard or solid board padding to divide layers between boxes.
- Edge boards – Reinforce and stabilise the load along the edges and corners with cardboard protectors.
- Bands – Wrap the goods with multi-use rubber pallet bands for added strength.
- Stretch wrap – Wrap the load tightly with multiple layers of plastic wrap to prevent shifting.
How to pack stackable pallets vs non-stackable pallets for shipping
- Stackable pallets can be placed one on top of the other and are the preferred type of pallet by freight carriers as they are able to maximise the space inside the vehicle. With non-stackable pallets, this is not possible, and some freight couriers impose extra charges if you decide to use them.
- If you are using non-stackable pallets, we recommend contacting our logistics experts, who can tailor an individual offer. In this case, your non-stackable pallet shipment will be noted in advance to avoid refusal by the delivery driver.
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Tips on how to pack other types of items and materials
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FAQ on how to pack and prepare pallets for shipping
How many boxes can I load on a pallet for transport?
This depends on the size of your boxes and the specifications of your pallet, but just to give you an idea, if you were shipping standard 30 kg boxes, you would be able to have 58 per pallet.
What is the best way to stack boxes on a pallet?
The boxes should be stacked in even columns, with one box directly over the other. This ensures a more stable base with a lower centre of gravity.
Where can I get new or used pallets for packing my shipment?
Pallets can be purchased from most hardware stores and specialised pallet stores. Alternatively, you can buy new or used pallets online. Used pallets are the cheapest solution.
What items should I load on pallets for transport?
Pallets are recommended for shipping multiple boxes and items that are too large for package shipping. In all cases, you should make sure that the loaded goods do not exceed the dimensions of the pallet.
When should I choose to ship a pallet rather than a box?
Loading bulky or oddly-shaped items on pallets provides increased stability and minimises the risk of damage during transport.
Should I use a pallet wrapping machine, or can I wrap the shipping pallet myself?
You do not need to use any specific machine or device to wrap your pallets for shipping.
What if I need a forklift to load the pallet for shipping?
If you need any additional assistance or equipment to load the pallet for shipping onto the truck, simply let us know during the booking process. Such services are available for an additional fee.