Keeping Pallets Safe This Winter
07 Mar 2018
Winter can take a heavy toll on wood pallets if you do not take the necessary precautions and make the right preparations to protect them. In a perfect world, you would have large open indoor spaces in which to store all store your wood pallets. However, this is not always possible, and you will need to make the most of the outdoor space that you have by taking on board some winter pallet tips.
As temperatures drop, it’s important to prepare your warehouse and pallets for everything that the elements can throw at them, including snow and freezing rain. If you don’t, your pallets, inventory and employees will suffer as the chill sets in.
There is plenty that you can do to keep your pallets in good condition over the winter. Follow these useful winter pallet tips to protect your inventory from the elements.
Invest in the Best Material
Pallet materials should be able to withstand changes in temperatures as well as wet conditions. High-quality plastics can cost a little more but are a good investment. They can be used up to 40 times, and this is a lot more than can be said for wood. Plastic pallets are able to resist wet conditions, as they do not absorb water and therefore do not shrink or warp. They retain their shape no matter how far the outside temperature drops.
Be Prepared and Be Vigilant
The most important of the winter wooden pallet tips is to prepare appropriately before the winter sets in. If snow is forecast, you need to take steps to protect the pallets. Once the snow has cleared, you need to inspect for damage. It is easy to overlook snow damage. The pallets may look normal, but the snow may have affected the strength of the wood in the pallet. It is important to remember that snow is essentially frozen water, and as it melts moisture will be absorbed by the wood, where it can cause damage. Also, water on the surface of the pallet can freeze and make them slippery and hard to handle.
The same is true for heavy rain. When it rains heavily or for a prolonged period of time, the moisture levels in the air become raised. Moist air can cause changes in wooden pallets. Mould growth can be supported on moist wood, and this is both unsightly and unhygienic. As the wood gets wet and then dries out repeatedly, it can become brittle and may lose strength and integrity.
Therefore, it is essential that pallets are carefully inspected before you release them. Weak and worn pallets pose a risk to the goods they are carrying and to the employees and equipment that are moving them.
By following these simple and cost-effective winter pallet tips, you will be prepared for whatever weather the winter season can send your way.