The wooden pallet is the workhorse of the supply chain, constantly on the move and ensuring safe transportation of various products. However, there may come a point in time when your supply chain will need to store pallets (with or without products on them). Improper storage and maintenance of wooden pallets can lead to premature wear, safety hazards, and unnecessary expenses.
In this article, we will explore three best practices to ensure proper wooden pallet storage – effectively extending the life of your valuable assets.
Pallet Storage Tip #1: Climate
When possible, pallets should be kept in a dry, well-ventilated area. While not necessary, storing pallets under a covering to protect them from the elements is also recommended. Failure to do so can lead to mold and rot, both of which can weaken the structural integrity of a pallet. Risk of mold growth is higher in the summer months with increased heat and humidity, so it is important to be hyper-vigilant during this time.
Click here to read statement regarding mold on pallets from Jeff Morrell, Ph.D.
Pallet Storage Tip #2: Surrounding Area
As is the case with any asset, it is important to store pallets away from anything that may damage the product or compromise the safety of the pallet. Common hazards you may find in your warehouse are chemicals, heavy objects that are prone to falling, and heat sources.
Pallet Storage Tip #3: Stacking
There are many ways to stack and organize pallets, whether they are empty or carrying a product.
If you are stacking empty pallets, it is important to stack pallets on a level surface. Stacking on an uneven surface can lead to instability, which can potentially cause the pallets to tip over and cause damage to your warehouse, employees, and the pallets themselves.
It is also important to be mindful of how high you stack your pallets. Pallet stacks that are too high are more prone to tipping over and causing damage.
When storing and stacking pallets that are supporting products, it is important to be mindful of the weight of the load the pallets are carrying. Each pallet has a load carrying capacity. Exceeding this capacity, especially for an extended period, can cause damage to the pallet, the products stored on them, and the surrounding area of your facility.
We recommend requesting the maximum load capacity of each pallet you use from your pallet supplier or your inbound vendor.
While this list does not cover every single action you can take, these are what we consider to be the top three best practices and implementing them should contribute to extending the life of your pallets.
Don’t let improper storage lead to costly replacements or hazardous conditions.
