How do I stack cartons on a Pallet ?
Optimizing goods on pallets is not as easy as it sounds, so how do you achieve perfect Palletization ? Discover our range of solutions for optimizing order picking and storage in logistics.
What is Palletization ?
Palletization is a logistical method of grouping goods on a Pallet. The aim is to balance the load and make it easier to transport. The term " Pallet " refers to a platform made up of planks, most of them wooden, which can be easily transported by forklifts (or Pallet truck).
The aim of Palletization is not only to transport goods easily, but also to protect them during transit. To achieve this, it is important to determine the choice of pallets, and to assess their size in relation to the packages to be moved.
The different pallet models
There are several types of pallets available for transporting parcels:
- Wooden pallets
- Plastic pallets
- Metal pallets
Pallets can be of different sizes, depending on whether they are European, American or half-pallets.
How to choose the right Pallet ?
The choice of Pallet is determined by the type of goods stored, the constitution of the warehouse storage systems or even the suppliers. More precisely, the choice of Pallet depends on the volume and weight of the load, and also on the conditions of transport.
The right choice of Pallet
It is generally recommended to use pallets that are :
- Practically new or in excellent condition (guaranteeing solidity and durability)
- Large enough (80×120 cm). This will prevent any cardboard sticking out
- Sturdy, depending on the goods to be moved (the most resistant pallets are made of metal, steel, stainless steel or aluminum).
- Neither wood fibre nor corrugated cardboard (too fragile)
What is the advantage of Pallet goods?
Organizing the movement of products using pallets offers several advantages:
- This allows parcels to be moved more quickly.
Palletization stacking enables handling equipment to reduce the number of movements by optimizing loading.
- This keeps the warehouse organized and safe.
This organization speeds up the flow of goods and optimizes the storage area. A tidy, orderly warehouse saves space.
- This guarantees safety for both the operator and the stored product.
The fact that goods are positioned on pallets means that the operator doesn't have to move products carton by carton. This reduces the risk of injury and product damage.
- This means greater control
Palletization facilitates part number control. The warehouse manager knows in advance the number of products stacked on the Pallet , enabling him or her to check and count more quickly and easily.
How do you distribute goods on a Pallet ?
The secret lies in weight distribution and the way the boxes are arranged on the Pallet. To achieve this, it is important to :
- Do not arrange boxes on the same side
This will unbalance the base and create a loss of space.
- Don't let any cardboard stick out
Handlers would find it difficult to store them, and risk damaging the merchandise.
To optimize Pallet space for the maximum number of boxes, it's important to place the heaviest products at the bottom of the base and the lightest parcels at the top. The Pallet will then be better stabilized and the heavier goods will not crush the lighter ones.
