Methods for Using and Maintaining Plastic Pallets
Proper maintenance of plastic pallets not only extends their service life but also enhances workplace safety, reduces operational costs, and ensures smoother workflow. Conversely, damaged pallets can lead to issues such as load collapse, product damage, or even personal injury to employees. Therefore, proper pallet maintenance throughout the production cycle is both essential and non-negotiable.
Plastic Pallet Maintenance Guidelines
By following the recommendations below, you can significantly extend the service life of plastic pallets and ensure years of trouble-free use:
Avoid Direct Sunlight Exposure:
Prevent plastic pallets from being stored under direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause discoloration, brittleness, and structural weakening of the plastic material, ultimately reducing pallet lifespan. If outdoor storage under direct sunlight is unavoidable, use appropriate covers or protective sheeting to shield the pallets from UV damage.
Indoor Storage:
Whenever possible, store pallets in a covered indoor facility. If indoor space is unavailable, use suitable protective covers, barriers, or canopies to shield pallets from direct sunlight, dust, contaminants, and potential physical damage.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance:
Schedule periodic cleaning to prevent dust accumulation and maintain hygiene standards. Excessive dirt buildup not only creates an unprofessional appearance but can also compromise product quality—especially in food, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries where sanitation is critical.
Selecting the Right Pallet for Load and Application:
Before purchasing pallets, consider load weight, carton dimensions, product type, and environmental conditions. Each pallet has a specific load capacity indicated in its technical specifications. Exceeding the rated capacity or using an unsuitable pallet design increases the risk of breakage and operational failures.
Routine Inspection:
Conduct regular inspections to identify and address any damages promptly. Repair or replace defective pallets to maintain safety and operational efficiency.
Cleaning Chemical Residues from Pallets:
When plastic pallets are used to transport chemical materials, they must be thoroughly washed immediately after use to remove any residual substances. Prolonged exposure to chemicals can lead to surface degradation, discoloration, or structural weakening of the pallet.
Even Load Distribution:
Properly arrange goods to ensure uniform weight distribution across the pallet surface. Uneven loads concentrate pressure on specific points, which can lead to warping or structural damage.
Using Proper Handling Equipment:
When moving pallets with pallet jacks or forklifts, ensure that the forks are fully inserted into the pallet openings. Incorrect fork placement increases the risk of load instability and pallet breakage.
Note: Pallet jacks are not recommended for “5-runner” fully-closed pallets; forklifts should be used instead for safe handling.
Load Arrangement on Pallets
The way goods are arranged on pallets plays a crucial role in maximizing efficiency and ensuring load stability. Below are some of the most common pallet load configurations:
Column Stacking:
Products are stacked vertically in straight columns directly on top of each other. This method is generally suitable for lighter loads and should be secured with straps or stretch film for added stability.
Brick Stacking:
Each layer is offset slightly from the one below, creating a brick-like pattern. This increases overall load stability and is often used for fragile items.
Pyramid Stacking:
The load tapers from bottom to top, with heavier items placed on the lower layers and lighter items on top. This method helps reduce pressure on the products at the bottom.
Block Stacking:
Suitable for goods of uniform size and weight, arranged in a block formation similar to brick stacking. This approach maximizes pallet space utilization.
Cross Stacking:
Similar to brick and block stacking in terms of stability. In this method, each layer is rotated 90 degrees from the previous one, creating a locked structure that holds the load firmly in place.
Proper Use of Plastic Pallets
When using plastic pallets, it is essential to ensure that excessive force is not applied to any single section of the pallet. To prevent damage, pallets should always be lifted from underneath, allowing the weight to be evenly distributed. Lifting or pulling a pallet from one corner can cause structural damage and reduce its durability.
Plastic pallets should never be subjected to falls from height or the impact of heavy objects. Likewise, throwing pallets—especially from elevated positions or toward another surface—should be strictly avoided. Such actions not only damage the pallet itself but also significantly increase the risk of serious workplace injuries. Adhering to these safety measures is critical for maintaining a secure and efficient working environment.
At Persian Sanat, our support team is always available to help you choose the most suitable pallet or plastic box pallet for your business needs. For further information and expert consultation, contact us today.
