5 Tips to Maximise Pallet Lifespan in Storage & Transport
Wooden pallets are a vital part of supply chains across countless industries, but they’re often subject to wear and tear that shortens their lifespan. The good news? With a few simple practices, businesses can significantly extend the lifespan of their pallets, saving money and reducing waste in the process.
At Portswood Pallets Ltd, we’ve worked with thousands of companies across the UK to help them optimise their pallet use, so here are our top five tips for getting the most out of your pallets during storage and transport.
1. Store Pallets in a Dry, Covered Area
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of wooden pallets. Prolonged exposure to rain, puddles, or even humid environments can cause wood to rot, warp, or grow mould.
Best practice:
Store pallets on racking or in stacks off the ground.
If being stored for long periods, use a waterproof cover or keep them in a sheltered area to prevent exposure to the elements.
Ensure good airflow around stored pallets to prevent trapped moisture.
2. Stack Properly to Avoid Warping and Collapse
Improper stacking is a common cause of damage during storage. If pallets are not evenly stacked, they can warp under uneven pressure or even topple over, causing breakage or injury.
Best practice:
Align pallets uniformly when stacking.
Avoid leaning stacks or mixing sizes within a stack.
Don’t overload stacks, follow safe height recommendations to avoid crushing bottom pallets.
3. Train Staff on Proper Handling Techniques
Rough forklift handling and poor loading/unloading practices are major causes of pallet damage. Even one mishandled pallet can compromise the integrity of your entire shipment.
Best practice:
Train forklift operators on how to pick up and set down pallets without scraping or crushing.
Avoid dragging pallets across surfaces.
Emphasise careful inspection before loading goods.
4. Repair Before Replacing
Not all damaged pallets are destined for the skip. In fact, many minor issues, like broken boards or loose nails, can be quickly and easily repaired.
Best practice:
Set up a basic pallet inspection routine and repair station.
Partner with a pallet refurbisher (like us!) to manage more significant repairs.
Reuse wherever possible to maximise ROI on each pallet.
5. Choose the Right Grade for the Job
Using the wrong type or grade of pallet for a heavy or irregular load can lead to breakage and reduced durability.
Best practice:
Match pallet grade to the product weight and transit conditions.
Use higher-grade pallets for export or long-haul transport.
Lighter loads can often be handled with refurbished or lower-grade pallets to cut costs without compromising performance.
Final Thoughts: Smart Pallet Practices Save Time and Money
A little extra care goes a long way when it comes to pallets. By implementing these tips, businesses can reduce pallet replacement costs, avoid product damage in transit, and contribute to more sustainable logistics practices.
Are you in need of reliable, refurbished, or custom-sized pallets?
Contact Portswood Pallets today, we offer fast delivery across the South and expert advice to help you make the most of every pallet.
