Pallets play an important role in the seamless operation of supply chains, but the key question is how can they benefit the environment when we rely on them so heavily?

Pallets allow you to ship more items.

Pallets, unlike parcel deliveries, which have limits on what and how many goods you may send at once, allow you to ship far more in one go; you can even have everything delivered together, regardless of the quantity.

You can also transport heavier and bulkier items that would be difficult to ship through a conventional parcel delivery service, such as appliances, furniture, and bulk consumables.

Wooden vs Plastic Pallets

Despite popular belief that wooden pallets are superior to the plastic alternative, there is no wrong or right response.

In general, wooden pallets are better for the environment because they can be recycled and reused, and they are less expensive to ship using couriers.

However, general maintenance may be required, such as heat treating the wood to minimise pest infestations and storing them indoors away from the rain and cold.

Of course, those who don’t have the time to maintain wooden pallets could always look to use the plastic version instead; these require very little upkeep and can be less prone to damage, too.

However, your choice is based on how frequently and for what you will require them. Wooden pallets, for example, would be the most cost-effective alternative if you only plan on sending them once or twice.

If you intend to transport shipments frequently, you could be better off investing in plastic, which will last considerably longer and cost you less money in the long run.

Wooden Pallets Can Be Recycled and Upcycled

Furthermore, wood may be used in ways that plastic cannot, such as turning wooden pallets into pallet furniture.

If you no longer need your wooden pallets, you may utilise them to construct a variety of items, including pallet garden furniture.

You might potentially save hundreds of dollars on new furnishings by recycling it into something new. Of course, all you’d need to do now is get some tools and paint to put your own finishing touches on it!

Save Money by Reusing Plastic Pallets

Finally, plastic pallets have one advantage: you only have to pay one price. They can save you money because you won’t need to buy them every time you send items. On the other hand, if a wooden one is damaged, it can usually be restored for a small fee.

Many people, however, are hesitant to invest time and money fixing wooden pallets when they could simply buy plastic ones and reuse them over and over. Regardless, both types contribute to increased sustainability because they may be reused and recycled widely.

Keedwell Scotland, in collaboration with our partner company Keedwell European Freight, provides a variety of services throughout Scotland, Europe, and the United Kingdom.

Warehousing and distribution, general haulage, freight forwarding, and same-day delivery are among the many services available. Get in touch today for more information.