The rental and purchase of pallets (or skids) are often an overlooked or under-appreciated detail. Pallets however are a useful and in many cases, essential item businesses need in order to meet standards and be successful in their businesses.
Basic custom built pallets are constructed of heat-treated wood products and formed in a box shape. Each pallet has specially measured openings to fit allow transport by forklift, pallet jack, front loaders, or other devices for ease. Often a load is secured on a pallet with the use of strapping, stretch, or shrink-wrap for shipments.
Though the dimensions of a pallet vary with each country and each location, the most commonly used pallet in North America is in a square 42 inches x 42 inches for use in the grocery industry. The square shape of the pallet ensures the stability of the load and keeps it from tipping.
Other dimensions are used to meet warehouse specifications or to accommodate loading dock doors, train car doors, or openings for other storage containers. Pallets can also be designed to fit through standard doorways when necessary. Pallet companies have the capability to custom design pallets to meet the needs of their customers accordingly.
Other pallets are constructed using galvanized metals, aluminum, engineered wood products (such as plywood or particleboard) hard plastic, or even paper. All types are designed with storage, transportation, and stability in mind. Depending on the use of the pallet, different standards apply.