Palletized Shipping: How to Ship Using Pallets

Palletized shipping, a type of LTL shipping, is an important and efficient shipment method that can be cost-effective by helping to save on costs. The method is space efficient and items are wrapped with stretch film making them less likely to be damaged during transit.

 Palletized shipping, a type of LTL shipping, is a method of transporting bulk products by stacking the cases on pallets and often using plastic stretch film wrap to secure them. 

This transportation method is ideal when shipping items in bulk as one unit to the same location. The pallets keep the product stabilized and the stretch film helps to secure cases containing the items and keep them in place to prevent any falling or moving during shipping.

Palletized boxes are boxes on pallets arranged in secure and stable patterns for easy palletized shipping. Palletized shipping is great for small, frequent deliveries and can help save money on shipping costs. This method is ideal for enhanced speed and efficiency due to the reduced need for individual handling, minimizing loading and unloading times. Other shipping methods can be great for different delivery sizes, transportation distance, and more.

Bulk cargo containers are large, extra heavy-duty corrugated boxes ideal for large and irregularly shaped items. Heavy products like resins, powders, and more. The hazmat cubic yard boxes and Gaylord boxes are available as UN Rated and non-UN Rated.

Before anyone can choose the best pallet for their business needs, it’s important to understand the different types available. At The Cary Company, we carry wood pallets, industrial plastic pallets, economy plastic pallets, heavy-duty plastic pallets, and rackable plastic pallets.

Durability, load capacity, and the product being shipped are factors to weigh when deciding. It’s also important to select the correct size pallet for your product.

There are four different types of plastic pallets: industrial, economy, heavy-duty, and rackable. Plastic pallets are easier to handle during transport due to their lighter weight, making them a cost-effective alternative to wood pallets.

A, B, and C are three types of pallet loads which vary based on the product’s size, shape, and weight. 

Type A is the most common and is where the contents form a square and have the same dimensions and weight. 

Type B consists of items of different sizes, forming a somewhat imperfect cube. 

Type C also has items of different sizes and shapes and are often unevenly stacked. These pallets may require extra padding and stretch film wrap.

Business-to-business (B2B) transactions can benefit from palletized shipping, especially when it comes to bulk shipments. Having the items palletized can provide faster and easier loading and unloading of shipments as well as reduced labor costs.

Palletized and non-palletized shipping (also referred to as floor-loaded shipping) methods can be used to transport a variety of items. The type that’s ideal for one business may not be ideal for another. What method is best for an order size and type? Take a look at some pros and cons before making a decision.

PROS

• Enhanced efficiency – forklifts can quickly and easily move pallets, helping to reduce time and labor costs.
• Cost-effective – only pay for the truck space that is used.
• Space-efficient – palletized shipping allows for more organized transportation of items.
• Extra protection – items are wrapped securely and are less likely to be damaged during transit.

CONS

• Even though palletized shipping can help save money in the long run, there is the initial pallet cost.
• This method of shipping isn’t ideal for shipping smaller orders that don’t require a pallet.

When loading a pallet, there are some things to keep in mind so that the product arrives safely:

1. Start by checking that the pallets are sturdy and in good condition.
2. Ensure that the weight of the items is evenly distributed on the pallet, with the heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones at the top. None of the items should be hanging outside of the pallet and there shouldn’t be spaces between the items.
3. Secure the pallet with stretch film. Use padding if necessary or when shipping fragile items.
4. Label the pallet with important information including the receiving address, handling instructions, and anything else that is necessary.

PROS

• Cost-effective – is typically the most cost-effective option for smaller shipments and orders.
• Customized packing – great for items that are packaged uniquely or that don’t fit well on pallets. 

CONS

• More manual labor is involved in loading and unloading the items. 
• Typically, non-palletized items are not as space-efficient when being stored and transported which can lead to higher costs.
• Items may be more likely to encounter damage in transit without being securely wrapped.

When transporting non-palletized items, there are some things to consider:

1. Use packaging materials that will help to protect the product from damage.
2. Secure the items with the appropriate supplies to help prevent movement during transit.
3. Label the items and make sure everyone who will be moving the product knows the proper handling instructions to avoid mishandling and damage to the order.

Both palletized and non-palletized shipping have their own benefits. For speedy, frequent shipments, and products that can be stacked, palletized shipping is the best choice.

At The Cary Company, we understand the importance of finding the right container for your needs at a price that’s right for you. Unsure what method of shipping is right for your order size? Give our knowledgeable and friendly team members a call at 630.629.6600 or email sales@thecarycompany.com!