Mid-Year Insurance Trends — And How to Prepare for a Safer Year-End
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We’re halfway through the year, and now is the perfect time for wooden pallet companies to check in on how things are going — especially when it comes to worker compensation and property insurance claims. These trends show us where risks are rising, what’s working, and what needs to change. So far in 2025, claim rates have increased in some key areas compared to this time last year. But the good news is that with smart planning—and help from a trusted insurance advisor—businesses can still take control before year-end.
How 2025 Compares in the Pallet Industry to 2024
1. More Worker Compensation Claims This Year
Compared to the first half of 2024, worker compensation claims in the pallet industry are up. While many injuries are still the same—cuts, falls, and lifting-related back injuries—this year has brought an increase in more serious claims that lead to longer time away from work. What’s behind the rise?
Labor turnover: Newer workers are still learning safe habits and are more likely to get hurt.
Fatigue: With tight deadlines and smaller crews, some employees are working longer hours.
Less frequent training: Busy operations are sometimes skipping refresher safety sessions.
Even small injuries can snowball into big problems when safety is not a daily focus.
2. Property Claims Are Up Too
This year has also brought more property- related claims than the first half of 2024. Most of these are tied to three growing problems:
Fires caused by electrical issues or dust buildup
Storm damage from stronger-than-usual spring winds and flooding
Theft — especially in outdoor pallet yards with limited surveillance
Higher property claims lead to more expen- sive premiums and longer recovery times when accidents happen.
Emerging Risk Patterns in 2025
Some new trends are also shaping the way the pallet industry looks at safety and insurance:
• Rise in Equipment-Related Injuries
With more businesses adding automated nailers, saws, and forklifts, machine-related accidents are climbing. In many cases, the equipment is fine — it’s the lack of training or missed maintenance that causes the injury.
• Heat Stress on the Rise
A hotter-than-normal spring and early summer has led to more heat exhaustion and dehydration cases, especially in outdoor yards. Long shifts in hot weather without shade or water breaks are a growing concern.
• Higher Inventory, Higher Risk
Because of supply chain changes, many pallet companies are holding more inventory on-site. Stacked pallets pose new hazards, including collapsing piles, fire risks, and limited space for safe operations.
• More OSHA Visits
As claim rates rise, state and federal safety inspectors have increased their presence in the pallet industry this year. That means stricter enforcement and higher penalties for businesses that aren’t up to date on safety protocols.
What Can Be Done Now to Improve Year-End Outcomes?
There’s still time to improve — and it starts with smart planning. Here’s how pallet businesses can turn things around:
1. Get Back to Basics on Safety
Clean up cluttered walkways, mark danger zones, and make sure safety gear is being used properly. Host short, focused safety huddles. Review the most common injury types from your own claims and talk to employees about how to prevent them.
2. Prevent Fires and Weather Damage
Keep dust and scrap wood away from electrical panels. Double-check fire extinguishers and train staff on how to use them. Trim trees, clean drains, and secure outdoor equipment to reduce wind or storm losses.
3. Upgrade Equipment and Training
If newer machines are in use, make sure workers are trained and confident. Post instructions near equipment. Schedule preventive maintenance before problems arise.
4. Improve Yard Security
Add motion lights, security cameras, and locks where needed. Theft claims often spike in the second half of the year when inventory increases — plan ahead now.
The Power of Planning with an Insurance Advisor
An insurance advisor isn’t just there when you buy your policy — they’re your partner in reducing risk and saving money over time. An experienced advisor can:
Analyze your current year’s claims
Spot new risks and help you fix them
Create a safety improvement plan
Review your policy and adjust coverage as needed
Help lower your premiums by showing your efforts to reduce risk
When you bring your advisor into the conversation now — not just at renewal time — you set yourself up for a better finish to the year.
Why Acting Now Matters
The second half of the year is usually busier for pallet makers — more production, more workers, more trucks, and more pressure. That also means more opportunities for things to go wrong.
By taking action mid-year, you give your business time to:
Refresh training
Fix hazards
Prepare for storms and high heat
Prevent claim-worthy accidents
Reduce insurance costs before they go up
Waiting until November or December is often too late. But starting now puts you ahead of the game.
In Summary
So far in 2025, the wooden pallet industry has seen more worker injuries, more fire and weather losses, and more property-related claims than this time last year. But these trends don’t have to continue. With smart safety planning, equipment upkeep, and guidance from a trusted insurance advisor, you can protect your people, your property, and your bottom line.
Let this mid-year mark be your wake-up call — and your opportunity to finish strong.
July 2025