Whatever the quantity of goods you need to transport, for many businesses pallet delivery offers a convenient, cost-effective solution.
But, especially if you are new to using this kind of service, it makes sense to understand the kinds of services and pallets on offer, the terminology used, and what to look for in the company you choose.
Read our guide to getting the most from your pallet courier service before you do anything else.
You probably already know that a pallet is a kind of platform in which large numbers of items can be stacked, making transport easier. Equally, the flat base and sturdy construction of pallets makes them very mobile, and efficient and effective transport containers. The logistics, shipping and transport industries all like this method of moving products around.
Industry Terms Used
● Full load service: This means taking up a whole lorry. Most goods can be stacked up to three pallets high, but it’s worth checking with your transporter first.
● Partial load service: This could be ideal if you just need to transport a small number of pallets or to break up a larger delivery. Often your load may be taking up vacant space on part-empty trips, so it’s a cost-effective solution.
● Dedicated service: As the name implies, this is a dedicated delivery just for you. There is no warehousing time involved, so this can be a very quick service.
● Distribution network: Goods are collected and taken to a central distribution hub. They will then be made ready for collection and transported to where they need to go. While this is a cost-effective method, it can also mean your goods take longer to reach their destination.
Pallet Sizes
Sizes of pallets are standard, but can vary between countries and for example, between Europe and the US. The two most common sizes are:
1.) Stringer: Commonly made from wood, these are also increasingly seen in plastic. They are mass produced, can be thrown away and are able to be lifted by a forklift or pallet truck.
2.) Block pallets: These have a stronger design, can hold up to 9 tonnes and are made from different materials, including even metal. Extra space makes the pallet easily accessible on all sides.
Things to Look For When Choosing a Service
When it comes to selecting a transport company, here are some of the key questions you should be asking:
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● Find out what method of loading and unloading goods is used. If there’s no rear load facility, for example, you may need to use a forklift.
● Pallet provision – ask whether the pallets can be supplied.
● Will help be offered with unloading and unpacking your goods? (This will vary from one provider to another.)
● Insurance: don’t choose pallet couriers who do not have sufficient insurance to cover your stock while it is being moved.
● Ask who will be driving your goods, and whether they are directly employed by the service provider. What experience do they have in moving loads of the size you need to be transported?
If you’re looking for a pallet courier UK suppliers abound – make the Internet your starting point for your research.
Author bio: Juliet England is a blogger for the transport industry and a regular contributor to websites such as Cheap Couriers.
