MARCH 2023
Summary
These examples demonstrate a fundamental principle that within most unit loads, stiffer pallets are better. In addition to reducing compression stresses on packaging, such pallets, better stabilize unit loads in transit. They better protect the product from damage due to impacts or shocks during handling. Stiffer pallets are typically more expensive, but this cost can be more than offset by the associated reduction in packaging cost. Stiffer pallets result in more sustainable unit load designs. Unit loads with stiffer pallets are safer to use.
Referenced Literature
Quesenberry C., L Horvath, J Bouldin, M.S. White. The effect of pallet top deck stiffness on the compression strength of asymmetrically supported corrugated boxes. Packaging Technology and Science. 2020; 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1002/pts.2533
Valverde M. P. A., L Horvath. Effect of wooden pallets characteristics on the compression strength of palletized plastic pails. Packaging Technology and Science. 2022; 35(10):719-727. Doi:10.1002/pts2672
Kim, S. Investigation of the environmental effect of unit load design optimization using physical interaction between pallets and corrugated boxes. [Master Thesis], Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA.