Much of the damage that happens in transit starts before the truck even leaves: with a badly prepared pallet. A few simple precautions keep goods safe and make loading faster.
1. Start with a sound pallet
Check that the pallet has no broken boards or protruding nails and that it can take the weight of the goods. A damaged pallet can give way when moved with a forklift.
2. Distribute the weight
Place the heaviest items at the bottom and in the centre, without letting them overhang the edges of the pallet. An overhanging load is easily knocked and takes up more space than expected.
3. Stabilise the load
Wrap the pallet in stretch film, including the base of the pallet in the wrapping. For heavy or unstable loads add straps, corner protectors and cardboard layer pads.
4. Flag fragile goods
If goods are fragile, non-stackable or must stay upright, mark them with clearly visible labels on several sides and tell us when you book.
5. Labels and documents
Every pallet should show sender, recipient and number of packages. Have the transport documents ready at pick-up.
6. Give us real sizes and weights
The actual number of pallets, their dimensions and weight let us choose the right vehicle and plan the load without surprises.
Not sure how to prepare your shipment? Contact us: we are happy to help.
