Transport of pallets – securing the load during transport

Properly securing pallets prior to transport not only protects goods from damage or destruction, but also ensures driver safety in the event of unforeseen situations on the road. How should pallets be prepared for transport, so that the whole process is successful and the goods arrive intact?

Transport of pallets – how to prepare for it?

The transport company is responsible for transporting the pallets, but loading the goods is the responsibility of the shipper. It is the shipper’s responsibility to prepare the consignment in such a way that it does not pose a danger to those who will be involved in its transportation. Above all, the weight of the parcel must be adjusted to the maximum weight of the vehicle loading. Attention must also be paid to types of pallets – should be adapted to both the means of transport and the type of parcel. Furthermore, they must be of good quality. Cracked, broken or decayed pallets must not be used .

Another important issue concerning load securing is the stacking of the packages on the pallets. The materials should be evenly distributed, so that the parcels are stacked on top of each other – this will ensure the stability of the structure and enable it to be secured later with stretch film. Heavier shipments should be placed at the bottom, with care taken to ensure that none protrude beyond the perimeter of the pallet. When loading irregularly shaped goods, it is a good idea to use special parcel fillers, which will ensure structural stability and protect items from damage.

Ways of securing the load

Pallets can be secured in a number of ways. The choice of a particular solution depends largely on the type and specifics of the goods being transported. However, regardless of the method used, it is important to remember that it is the stabilisation of the load that guarantees its safety.

What should be considered when preparing pallets for transport?

The gross vehicle weight limit must not be exceeded, so before loading the goods, the weight of the load should be calculated together with the securing materials.
Before transporting, pallets should be restrained. Protective film or cardboard dividers can be used for this purpose.
Lashings, in the form of strapping, chain or steel cable, are an essential component for securing pallets. They are accessories which make it possible to bind the load elements together or fasten them to the platform.
For palletised cargo consisting of small items, a semi-automatic stretch film wrapper is ideal to ensure precise protection of goods.
Rubber mats, carpets or other non-slip flooring will increase the friction between the floor and the load. This is an additional element of protection during pallet transport.
Spiked metal blocks, or so-called hedgehogs, will effectively immobilise stacked items, such as wood.

A stably packed pallet can be safely handed over to a transport company, which will ensure that it is delivered intact.

When preparing pallets for transport, it is worth remembering to properly secure them. This will not only protect the materials being transported from damage, but will also ensure the safety of the person transporting them.

Image source: unsplash.com, pixabay.com