Pros and Cons of Different Types of Pallets

Pallets are the most important item when it comes to packaging, storing and shipping items. They are durable and keeps all the goods safe for a long time. Wooden pallets in Melbourne are the most preferred ones. 

Sometimes, you might get confused about which pallet type to choose out of all the options. All the pallet types have different pros and cons associated with them; therefore, select the one which fits your criteria. Furthermore, pallets are built using various materials and shapes and that is what makes them different.

Generally, one can decide the pallet type on the basis of the items which are going to be stored or packed in them. Things can get tricky because some of the pallet types can be used for a common item. And selecting the best pallet that is in sale in Melbourne can get confusing.

The easiest way to go is by looking at the advantages and disadvantages of all the types and compares those with the requirements of the job. To simply your selection process, we have prepared a list of pros and cons associated with each pallet types:

1. Wooden Pallets

As said earlier, wooden pallets in Melbourne are the most commonly used pallet type. The light nature of the wooden pallets makes them a better option than a heavier option such as metal pallets.

Pros:

• Strong and highly durable.
• Less expensive than metal and plastic pallets.
• A typical wooden pallet is formed using wooden boards. If any board breaks, you can easily repair it by replacing that wooden board.
• Have high friction and thus are not slippery.
• Can be reused or resold.
• Can be recycled into paper or mulch.
• They can be made using recycled wood.
• Suitable for shelf storage.

Cons:

• Transporting them can be costly because of their weight.
• Difficult to clean if they get wet.
• It can attract bacteria and fungus when kept in a humid place.
• You have to deal with problems such as protruding nails or splinters. 

2. Plywood Pallets

These pallets are made from plywood, and we all know that plywood is manmade wood. These pallets are best for packing and storing goods that are light or medium-weighted.

Pros:

• Light in weight.
• They are durable and strong with the bonus of their lightweight.
• Due to its weight and form factor, shipping or transporting these pallets is easy.
• Has a clean and smooth surface.
• Very less moisture absorption.

Cons:

• It easily gets damaged when exposed to water for a long haul.
• You need a dry warehouse for storing plywood pallets.

3. Plastic Pallets

Plastic pallets are durable and light-weighted, which makes them a practical alternative to wooden pallets. They are suitable for speedy transport.

Pros:

• Light in weight.
• High loading capacities.
• 100% recyclable and can be remoulded into a new pallet.
• It doesn’t get affected by fungus, corrosion or humidity.
• You don’t have to deal with any splinters or protruding nails.
• Suitable for all climate conditions.
• Unlike other pallets, cleaning plastic pallets is easier.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to wooden pallets.
• They're prone to breaking or cracking when loaded with heavyweight goods.
• In case of cracks or breakage, it’s difficult to repair them. But they are easy to melt and can be recycled to make new ones.
• Not suitable for shelf storage. 

4. Metal Pallets

Metal pallets are mainly made out of aluminium and steel. Due to their durability, they are the best option for transporting heavy goods. They are best suited for carrying products that require pallets of high tensile strength.

Pros:

• They are ideal for transporting or storing heavy goods.
• They don’t rot or corrode because of different weather conditions.
• Are recyclable and reusable.
• Resistant to termites, bugs and pests.
• Do not splinter like the wooden pallets.
• More durable than all the other types.
• The chance of it cracking or breaking is negligible.

Cons:

• Heavier in weight compared to the rest of the types of pallets.
• Cost more than the other types.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right pallet for your usage is not an easy task. You have to consider all the pros and cons to make a practical decision. If you are a little low on budget, then you can go for recycled pallets too. However, don’t make hasty decisions. Take your time and do some researches before selecting the right pallet type for your business.