Cardboard Pallets : A Real Alternative To Wood

By Author: Boothby Valentine
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Wood is a hugely versatile material being readily available and comparatively easy to make a pallet out of. There are however some factors which can make the use of wood a less attractive proposition.

Wood pallets have been a core component of the logistics industry since the early 20th Century. In the 21st Century however, because of timber shortages, rising prices and phytosanitary concerns, the predominance of the wood pallet is now being challenged by the use of alternative materials such as plastic and now cardboard.

Why not use wood pallets?

Wood is a hugely versatile material being readily available and comparatively easy to make a pallet out of. There are however some factors which can make the use of wood a less attractive proposition. For instance, although wood is usually obtained from a sustainable source, it is not always readily available and can lead to a supply shortage and consequent increase in prices. Wood pallets are also potentially subject to nematode infestation requiring them to be subject to ISPM15 certification for export use. Also, for many loads, wooden pallets can add significantly ...
... to the gross weight, increasing the cost of shipping.

If not wood pallets - why cardboard?

At first glance, cardboard is an unlikely material to use for a pallet, but modern manufacturing techniques ensure that cardboard pallets can carry significant weight. Because cardboard is a comparatively lightweight material it does not add as much as wooden pallets to the overall shipping weight and can make a significant saving on costs. There is no requirement with cardboard pallets for ISPM certification so reducing cost and paperwork. Unlike wood pallets, cardboard pallets have no nails which can stick out and cause splinters and other injuries. Operator safety is greatly enhanced when using cardboard pallets.

Cardboard Pallets – the future?

It is clear that cardboard pallets will have a role to play in the future of the logistics industry as they offer many benefits. Many businesses are more aware of their impact on the environment and cardboard pallets give them an opportunity to enhance their green credentials, as they are fully recyclable. The use of cardboard is not suitable in every situation, but it can be used for most loads and ensures that you pay for moving the goods and not moving the pallet.

Whirlowdale are the UK distributor for cardboard pallets from Sonoco, a leader in the field of innovative packaging solutions. The Whirlowdale sales team would be pleased to discuss your requirement and answer any questions about the use of cardboard pallets in your industry.
Resource: http://www.whirlowdale.com