A pivotal function of high-performing supply chains is efficient inventory management. Warehouses and manufacturing facilities require adequate space and processes to seamlessly receive, store, and ship goods. In fast-paced environments and fluctuations in demand, businesses must keep their resources well-organized.
That’s the exact reason rackable plastic pallets are utilized. When added to warehouse racking systems, durable thermoformed pallets help optimize storage without taking up additional floor space. However, plastic pallets can be customized and altered to extend those benefits.
Let’s take a detailed look at the practical benefits and best practices of innovative rackable pallets.
What Are Rackable Plastic Pallets?
Rackable plastic pallets are a special type of packaging that interacts with various racking systems to support advanced material handling and streamline operations. The packaging design typically includes runners or bars to distribute the weight of heavier loads to the rack. Together, they maximize the vertical storage capacity of a facility while improving workflows.
The Importance of Pallet Racking
Although the upfront benefit of pallet racking is additional space, there are other operational advantages. A safer work environment, increased inventory visibility, and enhanced load capacity are results of effective pallet racking systems.
Unbreakable Plastic Pallets Improve Worker Safety
The safety of the workforce is incredibly important and must be taken seriously. Compared to expendable wood, thermoformed plastic pallets are stronger and less vulnerable to breaking. Weak carrying capacities can result in a pallet falling and causing serious injury or worse. Damaged wood pallets can also pose a danger by leaving nails exposed and debris behind. When plastic dunnage is mishandled, it will simply pierce or bend without chipping or falling apart.
What Types of Pallets are Used for Racking?
The most common pallet types used in warehouse racking systems are made from wood, plastic, and metal. Although each group is compatible with racks, they have their distinct advantages and disadvantages. This includes:
Wood
- Pros: Cost-effective and readily available in most standard footprints
- Cons: Frequent repairs and replacements, and the possibility of splintering.
Plastic
- Pros: Enhanced load capacities and easily customizable to suit your needs.
- Cons: Higher initial upfront investment and the slippery surface can jeopardize worker safety.
Metal
- Pros: Extremely high load capacities and resistance to many hazardous chemicals.
- Cons: The most expensive pallet option and the heaviest building material.
Enhanced Inventory Visibility
Quickly locating products is essential for efficient order fulfillment and overall inventory coordination. An organized pallet racking system reduces the time needed to find items, establishing an effective workflow. Additionally, plastic racking pallets can be customized to work seamlessly with each business’s unique processes and systems. These custom options include:
- Color Selection,
- Identification Striping,
- RFID Tags,
- Mold-In Custom Labels,
- Mold-In Nomenclature,
- And more.
Each of these enhancements helps tailor the packaging around your needs for streamlined operations.
Increased Load Capacity
Rackable plastic pallets can be made with varying thicknesses to increase weight capacities, allowing for more products to be safely stored per load. The structural integrity of the pallets is robust enough to prevent damage to the products. Plastic possesses high tensile strength, which helps it resist degradation and break down as quickly. Repeated use offers a cost-effective packaging solution while also contributing to sustainability efforts.
Implementing Rackable Pallets in Warehouses
Adding reusable, lightweight pallets to warehouse racking is beneficial, but there are things to be mindful of. Accurate pallet dimensions and compatibility with your current systems are critical. The correct-sized packaging ensures a secure fit on the racks and provides ample room for forklift operators to store and retrieve goods easily.
Understanding the load rating of the pallet and racking system is vital information. Weight capacities fluctuate for a pallet, whether it’s stationary, in motion, or within a rack. It is important to know that your rackable pallet load capacity is sufficient during each stage of the supply chain.
Discover Durable Pallets for Warehouse Racking
Regardless of your industry or needs, Peninsula Plastics has the experience and capability to improve your warehousing. Our rackable plastic pallets provide long-term reusability, heightened weight capacities, and keep your workers safe.
With decades of forming reliable plastic packaging, we can readily produce over 100 different standard pallets.
Looking for a specific size or custom enhancements added for extra support? Our tailor-made solutions will meet your needs while increasing the efficiency of your warehousing.
