The plastic choice
February 1st 2007 Nick Clements, business development manager at Allibert Buckhorn looks at some of the important points to consider when choosing a pallet for your logistics network Choosing a pallet for your existing logistics network may seem to be one of the more straightforward decisions, but there are some important factors to consider. By understanding all your options, you can ensure that your whole logistics operation runs more smoothly, delivering not only the goods but also a healthy return on investment. Safety first Production material, design features and Health and Safety considerations are just some of the factors that can affect the functionality of the seemingly humble pallet. For instance, the Health and Safety of workers has never been a more important issue for the materials handling industry. Stricter employer legislation and the growth of a 'compensation culture' mean accidents could prove extremely costly for companies. While they might seem trivial at the time, in reality slips and trips are no laughing matter. The Health and Safety Executive says there is a slip or trip at work every three minutes, two of which every year are fatal. With this very much in mind, Allibert Buckhorn developed a revolutionary plastic pallet, moulded from an innovative anti-slip compound, which has given many industries the option of using a safe, robust and hygienic plastic pallet for the first time. The Alligrip Maestro is created using specially developed manufacturing technology that means the anti-slip quality is inherent within the entire pallet deck and runners and not just a coating. While completely smooth, it provides equivalent grip when stacked with plastic containers as a wooden pallet with cardboard boxes. Vitally, because the runners on all sides of the pallet are also anti-slip, it provides greater safety should it be accidentally knocked while on racking or when block stacked. Plastic pallets such as the Alligrip with no texturing or traps that can harbour dirt or bugs are ideal for the food, pharmaceutical and automotive industries, where cleanliness and hygiene are paramount. Build on versatility Like any other investment in new equipment, it's also important to get the best value from your pallets even when they're not in use. And pallet collars and covers are two cost-effective ways of improving their versatility. Pallet collars, such as Allibert's Buckhorn's own Portacollar, are designed specifically for bulk handling and distribution. They can be fitted in seconds and built up in stages to suit size and height requirements. The Portacollar also folds completely flat when empty, which saves space and costs for return transport and storage, and can quickly and easily be assembled and folded safely by a one person - vital in a busy warehouse. Pallet handling units, which comprise of a pallet base complete with containers and lid, are also an ideal solution to companies wanting to store and distribute goods in time and space efficient stock keeping units. They allow products to be stored safely without the need for stretch wrapping and remove the need for turntables, saving further cost and freeing valuable warehouse space. Some designs, including those from Allibert Buckhorn, have the option of straps that hook under the pallet deck for extra stability and security, helping to protect the load from damage and allowing goods to be block-stacked. Their reusable long-life nature also saves on packaging waste and helps users comply with the Packaging Waste regulations. So when next selecting a pallet, remember- they can be much more versatile than you may think. More articles from LINPAC Allibert: | 
