As proud members of the Palletways network, we like to keep you up to date with the technology that keeps your pallets moving safely, quickly and on time. One of the biggest advances in recent years has been Palletways ID, the forklift-mounted sensor system that’s now embedded across hubs throughout the UK and Europe. Here’s an updated look at what it does and why it matters for anyone sending freight through the network.
What Is Palletways ID?
Palletways ID is a system of cameras, scanners and dimensioning tools fitted directly to forklift trucks (FLTs) across the network. Instead of pallets being stopped, weighed and scanned separately at various points, Palletways ID captures everything in one pass, while the FLT operator carries on with their normal warehouse duties.
It brings together four operational steps into one seamless process:
- Image capturing — a photo of each pallet is taken automatically, giving a clear record of its condition and full traceability.
- Barcode scanning — the pallet’s barcode is read automatically as it passes, with no need for manual scanning.
- Weight measuring — the pallet’s weight is recorded the moment it’s lifted, without ever being placed on a static scale.
- Dimension measuring — length, width and height are captured at the same time, removing the need for a separate cubing machine.
Why It’s Still Setting the Standard
When Palletways ID first launched, it was described as a world-first for the logistics industry, and that hasn’t changed. No other system captures all four data points simultaneously and on the move. Older methods, such as fixed archway scanning, only capture two, image and barcode, and only from a static point. Palletways ID goes further, gathering weight and dimension data too, without a single stop in the process.
The technology now works hand in hand with the Palletways Portal, the network’s cloud-based platform that tracks every consignment from booking through to final delivery. Together, they give members and customers a genuinely joined-up view of where a pallet is and what condition it’s in, in real time.
The Benefits, In Practice
Operational efficiency
No static scales, no handheld readers, no stopping and starting. Pallets move through the network faster and more accurately, with far less manual handling.
Health and safety
Oversized, overweight or damaged pallets are flagged automatically at the point of handling, so issues can be caught and corrected before they become a problem on the road.
Commercial advantage
Accurate, real-time data means accurate billing, better planning and better decision-making, for us and for our customers.
What This Means for You
As a long-standing member of the Palletways network, this kind of investment in technology is exactly why we’re able to offer the level of tracking and reliability our customers expect. Whether you’re sending one pallet or managing a regular schedule of deliveries, you can follow your consignment’s journey with confidence.
Want to track a pallet or find out more about sending freight through the Palletways network? You can:
Track a pallet: track2.palletways.com
Find out more about the network: get in touch with the Cross Country Carriers team directly, and we’ll be happy to help. Call 01284 810739 or email info@crosscountrycarriers.com
