Plastic pallets are a great alternative to wooden pallets due to their sturdiness and durability. These pallets are also recyclable, and this makes them an eco-friendly option for packaging, transporting and storing your products. However, plastic pallets come in different variations, which can be intimidating to beginners. Therefore, if this is your first time buying them, keep reading for a detailed guide to help you purchase the best pallets for your industrial applications.

Check Pallet Dimensions

Choosing the right pallet size is crucial in ensuring your goods don't move around during transportation. You also want a size that will fit the products so they won't hang over the edge. Therefore, choose a size that matches the footprint of your load to ensure maximum usability of the pallet and prevent product damage. If you cannot find a suitable size, consider ordering custom pallets that can be made to the exact measurements you need.

Consider the Weight of the Load

The weight of the load determines the load capacity of the pallet you choose. In this case, pay attention to two types of loads:

• The static load which refers to the amount of weight the pallet can handle while at rest
• The dynamic load which refers to the capacity the pallet can handle while in motion, for example, when being ferried through a conveyor belt 

For example, if you will be stacking your pallets, you need to ensure they can handle the static load. Overloading pallets during stacking can cause damage and expose your products to damage as well. Similarly, if you will ferry them from one place to another using a forklift, ensure each pallet can handle the weight above it during the move.

Have in Mind the Product to Be Stored

The product you will store on the pallets determines what plastic material to choose. For standard goods, you can use conventional plastic pallets. However, when storing food or pharmaceutical products, you may need pallets that meet the TGA standards. Therefore, find out if there any regulations regarding the storage and transportation of goods you're handling to avoid legal complications.

Determine How You Will Move the Pallets

Whether you will move your pallets using a forklift or pallet jack, it's essential to choose those that fit with your entry system. Two-way pallets can only be accessed from two sides, while four-way ones can be accessed from all four sides. Most types of material handling equipment work well with four-way pallets. However, if you opt for two-way ones, you may not be able to use hand jacks to move the products. Have this in mind when buying to avoid inconveniences during handling.

In addition to choosing quality plastic, pay attention to these factors as they will influence the usability of the pallets. If you're not sure of what to get, don't hesitate to seek expert help!