Timber vs Plastic Pallets: 4 Important Factors to Consider
If you're going to be transporting goods, it's likely that you'll need pallets and other timber packaging items. However, it's common for transportation companies to struggle between choosing timber pallets and plastic pallets. If you need to make that decision yourself, remember that each option comes with its own strengths and drawbacks. Instead of picking the perfect option, make sure you consider the following four factors so you can choose the one that best fits around your own needs.
1. Strength
Probably the most important factor that you'll need to consider is the strength of your pallet material. Unfortunately, the distinction between timber and plastic isn't as clear cut as you might like it to be. In terms of raw strength, timber wins out. If you're going to be needing to transport very heavy items, timber pallets are ideal. However, you should note that wood uses fasteners that can come loose; when this happens, more fragile items can be punctured, so plastic is better if you're transporting something relatively delicate or breakable.
2. Environmental Impact
It used to be something of a novelty to say that your transportation company was eco-friendly, but increased public awareness has meant that going green is more beneficial than ever. In general, wooden pallets are far more eco-friendly since they are made from sustainable resources and can be easily repaired and recycled. Plastic pallets do admittedly have a longer shelf life, but they will need to be melted down in order to be reused, a process that is extremely energy-intensive.
3. Industry
Another important consideration when you're choosing pallets is what kind of industry you're going to be working with. Some industries prefer using plastic pallets since they can be used in their own warehouses and then sent back to you when more product is needed. Wooden pallets do not tend to be as useful in this regard. Make sure you check the needs and specifications of your clients before making your decision.
4. Cost
Last but not least, you will certainly want to take the time to consider the cost of your pallet material. In terms of initial expense, wood definitely makes the grade. Wooden pallets are a lot cheaper to make and reuse than plastic pallets, so they are perfect if you need plenty of pallets, want to keep your initial costs low and ultimately don't have any pressing need to pick plastic pallets instead. The fact that they cost less is the driving factor behind the fact that timber pallets vastly outnumber plastic pallets.
