Shipping palletised goods may seem straightforward, but a lot of precision has to go into securing your items. Along the journey, your pallet may encounter some bumps and may even be dropped, so if it isn’t secure, it can cause some serious consequences for your products and your business.
Once the shipment leaves the warehouse, it’s out of your control and the pallets go through a lot of movement on the way to their destination so it’s vital you prepare it properly. Here’s how to secure them correctly.
Why Proper Pallet Security Matters
Pallets are loaded and unloaded multiple times during their logistics journey. They may be shaken on bumpy roads or buried beneath other goods and, if they are not restrained, they can shift, break or drop. This can result in:
- Damaged goods – Impact or friction can destroy fragile items
- Shipping delays – Defective pallets can be singled out for examination and re-packing
- Financial losses – Losses can have a high price and hurt your company’s reputation
Proper pallet security and cargo preparation is a necessity for any shipping freight company to avoid these headaches.
Tips for Securing Your Pallet
Building the Foundations of Your Pallet
Ensure your pallet is strong and can support your goods and not bow under its weight or break apart. Also, make sure it is in the correct dimensions for your shipping route to avoid potential rejections at shipping terminals.
When it comes to stacking your items, use a pyramid configuration, with lighter items at the top and heavier items at the base. Stacking packages closely together with no gaps will minimise shifting during transportation.
Choose Proper Wrapping Techniques & Materials
Stretch wrapping is recommended for securing your pallet. Start wrapping at the base of the pallet and work your way up wrapping multiple layers, taking care at the corners and edges. Ensure the film wraps the load to the pallet itself for additional stability. Shrink wrap can then be utilised for smaller loads.
For larger or oversized cargo, additional bracing can be used. Plastic or metal straps can help to restrict motion and tensioners can be utilised in tightening it in a secure manner. Strapping comes in useful when shipping goods such as machinery or equipment that cannot be shrink-wrapped.
To avoid packages sliding during transit, make sure to use slips in between layers, and for fragile products, utilise corner protectors as well as cushioning materials to protect against impact and vibration. For valuable products in pallets, edge boards can be used for increased structural support.
Innovative Pallet-Securing Methods
Interested in other ways to secure your pallet? Some more cutting-edge options include:
- Netting Systems: Keeps items secure without damaging packaging and is ideal for oddly shaped loads.
- Reinforced Edge Wraps: These wraps offer both protective cushioning and extra structure, ideal for high-value shipments.
- RFID & Tracking Labels: Tracking solutions provide real-time visibility of the status of your shipment for time-sensitive or sensitive shipments.
No matter how safe your pallet, choosing a professional logistics service is just as important. Cross Country Carriers provide a safe pallet delivery service that will deliver your goods in a safe and timely manner. With our expert professionals, we can coordinate everything for you, beginning with choosing a perfect pallet and extending to offering personalised transportation options.
Discover our full range of pallet services to see how we can support your business logistics today. If you have any further questions about how to secure pallets or need information on pallet delivery, get in touch with our friendly team today.
