When shipping sensitive goods like medicines, chemicals used in pharmaceutical industries, and food materials, choosing the right type of pallet is essential. Both plastic and wooden pallets are commonly used for shipping. However, there are pros and cons to using these pallets for shipping sensitive materials.
Contact professional manufacturers who use the best quality materials for good-quality pallets in Leeds.
Which Type of Palette is Suitable For Food and Pharmaceutical Shipping?
Hygiene and Cleanliness
Many shipping companies prefer plastic pallets for shipping pharmaceutical and food products, because they can be easily cleaned with cleaning solutions. They are non-porous and resistant to moisture, bacteria, or chemicals. Wooden pallets are a sustainable option; however, they are more porous and absorb all liquids. This makes it difficult to sanitise the wooden pallets. Even when treated or sanitised, these pallets can harbour bacteria, fungi and pests.
Cost-Effective Solution
Wooden pallets are cheaper than their plastic counterparts. Thus, pharmaceutical companies prefer wooden pallets because they help them incur fewer shipment costs. Plastic pallets, on the other hand, involve a high investment cost. Companies do not like plastic pallets because they will increase shipment costs.
Sustainable Option
Pharmaceutical companies prefer eco-friendly options, so they prefer using wooden pallets, as they are made from renewable resources. Moreover, wooden pallets can be repaired, reused, and biodegraded. A plastic pallet, on the other hand, cannot be recycled at the end of its life. Since wood is a more sustainable option, wooden pallets are used by the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Durability and Longevity
Plastic palettes tend to last longer compared to wood palettes. They are resistant to all types of weather conditions. Wooden palettes, on the other hand, have a shorter lifespan . They can sustain damage if mishandled or exposed to continuous rainfall and moisture for an extended period. Considering longevity, plastic palettes are one of the preferred options of shipping companies.
From the point of view of shipping companies, plastic pallets are a better choice for handling sensitive pharmaceutical and food products. However, from the industrial point of view, wooden pallets are a better option as they are sustainable and cost less. Hence, the type of palette is chosen after carefully considering the type of material that is being shipped.
For different types of wooden pallets, contact D&K Pallets. We offer a full range of pallet types and specifications.
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