We live in a fast-paced world where efficient material handling is a must. Heavy-duty industrial plastic pallets have proven their value as a convenient, versatile, and dynamic solution to storage and shipping needs across a number of different industries.
However, when many people hear “plastic,” they instantly think that the item is bad for the environment. This is simply not true. In this article, we’ll talk about why plastic pallets are so beneficial to the shipping industry and the environment.
How Are Stackable Plastic Pallets Good for the Environment?
Before we move on to the benefits of using plastic pallets for material handling processes, let’s first talk about why they are an environmentally friendly option.
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Durability
Firstly, they last much longer than their wooden counterparts. This means that when you invest in a plastic pallet system for your business, you are helping to reduce carbon emissions and the energy required for production.
Besides, a longer lifespan means that you get to save money on new pallets!
Deforestation
Deforestation is a serious issue that many environmentalists are concerned about. The reality is that wooden pallets are made by cutting down trees, which can lead to deforestation. Plastic ones, on the other hand, do not require this process, preserving our trees.
Versatility
Nestable plastic pallets are also versatile and can be used for a number of applications. This gives you greater freedom to find a solution that works best for your business. That’s not all. When your faithful plastic pallets reach the end of their lifespan, they can be recycled to make new ones.
Wooden pallets, on the other hand, cannot be recycled the way plastic ones can, which means that more trees will have to be cut down to produce new ones.
Production Is More Energy Efficient
When compared to the construction of wooden pallets, the creation of plastic pallets, particularly those built from recycled materials, may be more energy-efficient. Energy and resource-intensive procedures, such as logging, sawing, and curing the wood, are required to produce wooden pallets.
On the other hand, making plastic pallets, especially with recycled plastics, tends to require less energy and produce fewer carbon emissions.
The Advantages of Switching to Plastic Pallets
Now that you understand why plastic pallets are often considered the more eco-friendly alternative, let’s look at some of the other reasons why they are an excellent choice for businesses.
They Are Long-lasting
If you have never used them for shipping or storage before, you may be surprised at just how durable light plastic pallets can be. They often offer many years of faithful use and are better suited to withstand the elements than wooden pallets.
That’s because these storage containers are made using materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This makes them capable of withstanding damage from extreme temperatures or moisture and chemical exposure. They are also non-porous, unlike wooden pallets, which contributes to their durability and longevity.
They Are More Cost-effective
The truth is that finding the right pallet for your business requires more than just a short-term analysis of its service. Ideally, you want a solution that will stand the test of time, saving you money in the long run.
This is exactly what you can expect when you purchase stackable plastic pallets.
They do not absorb liquids or crumble under intense heat the way wooden pallets do, ensuring that they serve you for many years. This means that these products can offer a long-term solution to your shipping and storage needs.
Plus, if you’re hoping to save money on your plastic pallets, you could always purchase them secondhand.
They Are Versatile
One of the reasons why plastic pallets are so prevalent is because they are easily customizable. You can have pallets created to match product dimensions or storage requirements. Whether you are looking for large stackable pallets that can carry heavy loads or smaller ones for lighter cargo, you are sure to find something to meet your needs.
This dynamic capacity to meet a variety of needs has contributed greatly to the prevalence of plastic pallets over their wooden counterparts.
They Can Be Transported and Stored Easily
Thanks to their lightweight construction, plastic pallets can be moved around easily when not in use. They are also specially designed to allow for efficient transportation using a pallet jack or forklift. This makes them ideal for use in a warehouse or distribution center.
Additionally, most plastic pallets can be stacked or nestled, which maximizes storage capacity when not in use.
This kind of efficiency can be crucial when it comes to automated systems. Automatic material handling devices such as conveyor belts are often compatible with plastic pallets. When used together, the results are often reduced labor costs and enhanced productivity.
They Are More Hygienic
Hygiene is important in a number of industries. Contamination and the transfer of germs can be detrimental in the pharmaceutical and food sectors. This is where plastic pallets can help.
They are much easier to clean and sanitize, making them the preferred option for applications where hygiene is particularly important. These pallets are non-porous, which means that they do not absorb moisture, which could lead to the formation of dangerous mold.
They Are Much Safer to Work with
Occupational safety is another crucial aspect that you will need to consider when determining the suitability of a storage system. Plastic pallets are generally considered the safer option because they do not splinter or break easily, which could cause safety-related issues.
Instead, they have a more sturdy and uniform design that allows the weight to be distributed more evenly, contributing to the overall safety of the product.
Container Exchanger Is Your Plastic Pallet Marketplace
The good news is that plastic pallets offer a comprehensive storage and shipping solution for a wide range of industries. Contrary to popular belief, they are also the more environmentally friendly option, too, adding to their allure.
If you are looking for high-quality plastic pallets, then you are in luck. Container Exchanger will put you in touch with reliable suppliers. Browse our website today to find plastic pallets that best meet your needs!
Should you require more information, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.