Variety of Sizes
The first thing that you need to understand is that pallets, plastic totes, and storage boxes come in all shapes and sizes. There isn’t a ‘standard size’.
You will need to be precise about sizing when organising a shipment. This will prevent delays and extra costs that you have not accounted for.
Health & Safety Regulations
One of the most important aspects of international shipping guidelines is health and safety, including disease prevention. Wood-borne diseases and insects pose a significant risk when using traditional wooden pallets.
The International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 is adhered to by the majority of countries worldwide. Its goal is to help prevent diseases that could grow on pallets.
While some industries may have fewer restrictions than others, the food, logging, and agriculture industries have strict guidelines to follow, as they are at the greatest risk.
If a business chooses the wrong pallet or storage box, they may find that their freight must go into quarantine or be destroyed.
To prevent losing time and money, it is essential to know the difference between treated and untreated pallets and the rules governing the use of used pallets.
To recognise a treated pallet, look for the wheat stamp, which indicates the International Plant Protection Seal (IPPS).
This mark will indicate that the pallet you have chosen has been chemically or heat-treated by its manufacturer.
Plastic Pallets
As businesses move away from traditional wooden pallets, plastic and metal pallets, and plastic totes are now commonplace.
Plastic pallets, plastic totes, and plastic tote containers are generally more durable, so they can be used for multiple shipments or long-term storage.
Just as they experience less wear and tear than wooden pallets, these also harbour little to no disease. If there are any spillages or viable dirt on the pallets, they can be easily wiped down and deep-cleaned.
As they are not known to carry disease, plastic pallets don’t need to be treated. This makes them a cost-effective solution to all of your shipping requirements.
Long-Term Investment
Plastic tote containers may be more expensive up front, but you will benefit financially in the long run.
If you are concerned about the cost of using plastic pallets, AIC has a number of used and rented pallets that may be the answer for your business in the short term.
To find out more about AIC pallets, plastic totes, and plastic tote containers, contact us today. We offer the best prices and customer service you will find.