The majority of pallets used in modern shipping are now made of plastic. Plastic shipping pallets are a major improvement from wooden pallets. They outperform wooden pallets in durability, weather resistance, and versatility. Plastic recycling also contributes to the global green initiative.
Plastic pallet manufacturers produce a variety of pallets that vary in design, size, and shape. We cover the most common types of plastic pallets in this article. These are stackable and rackable plastic pallets. These two types aim to make all businesses in the shipping industry move smarter. In the parts that follow, we’ll look at their features and how they differ from one another.
What Are Stackable Plastic Pallets?
If you need lightweight but sturdy plastic pallets, this is the type for you. Stackable plastic pallets are lightweight and have a unique bottom design. Because of this, moving them is simple. They are useful in conveyor systems, distribution warehouses, and static storage in warehouses.
The bottom section of their design provides support when needed and during stacking. Pallets can have a runner bottom, a picture frame bottom, or a crossbar bottom. This bottom feature allows them to easily assemble and connect as needed. This also provides additional support to the pallets, ensuring their sturdiness in stacks.
What Are Rackable Plastic Pallets?
Rackable plastic pallets are strong and dense in weight, making them ideal for warehouse shelving. Their mold is made of a material that improves its durability and reusability. Plastic pallets of this type are heavier than stackable plastic pallets. They let you make the most of your floor area without sacrificing storage.
Their bottom can be a picture frame or a bottom runner. This makes them ideal for storing in high racks during storage or on return journeys. They usually have a load weight specified on the sides.
Differences Between Stackable And Rackable Plastic Pallets
- Carrying capacity
Rackable plastic pallets are stronger than stackable plastic pallets. The design of their structures contributes to the weight difference between the two pallets. Rackable plastic pallets are useful in warehouses with heavy loads. Their sturdy construction ensures their dependability in both shelving and forklift transport.
Stackable plastic pallets are perfect for closed-loop shipping since they are lightweight. Their lightweight design also helps with movement from shipping containers to the warehouse. They also reduce the weight of the load during shipping.
- Cleaning and maintenance
While both types of plastic pallets are simple to clean, rackable plastic pallets need little maintenance. Because of their strength and sturdiness, they are more sustainable and reusable. Rackable plastic pallets are also more durable than stackable plastic pallets.
Because they are lightweight, stackable plastic pallets have a shorter life span. They are therefore more vulnerable to wear and tear. Manufacturers of stackable plastic pallets use a mold material that is strong enough to withstand breakage. You won’t have to be concerned about mishaps brought on by broken plastic pallets as a result.
- Space use
Both stackable and rackable plastic pallets take up less storage space. Some stackable plastic pallets are collapsible. This increases storage efficiency in floor space used. The difference in space use is negligible and has no bearing on business operations. Storing rackable plastic pallets can be in high racks, maximizing warehouse vertical space.
- Reuse
Rackable plastic pallets offer longer reuse time frames than stackable plastic pallets. This is due to the heavy material they are made from which makes them stronger. The heavy material also makes sure the wear and tear is slow.
Stackable plastic pallets have a shorter lifespan due to their light weight. Thus they are ideal for loading of light goods which don’t compromise their structural integrity. They are perfect for use in distribution warehouses, stackable pallet systems and use on conveyor belts.
How To Choose Between Stackable Plastic Pallets And Rackable Plastic Pallets
Both plastic pallets achieve their intended uses. It is wise to know the specific use of plastic pallets you need. As stated earlier, stackable plastic pallets are better suited for moving around loads. Uses include on conveyor belts, warehouse stacking systems, or distribution centers.
Rackable plastic pallets are useful for handling and transporting heavy loads. They are very reliable for long-distance shipping. Racking also allows them to take up less floor space on return trips. They are also useful in storage warehouses for long-term storage. They are perfect for use with forklifts because of their robustness.
Conclusion
You are now well-informed in both stackable and rackable plastic pallets. You will be able to pick between the two categories using this information. Consider your warehouse’s frequency of use, loading capacity, maintenance, and space requirements.
In a warehouse, stackable and rackable plastic pallets serve different functions. As a result, you should ascertain your precise needs before making a purchase.
Whatever you decide, be appreciative that you are helping to create a greener world by using plastic pallets. Visit our website to go through our range of stackable and rackable plastic pallets.