Recent pallet trends for businesses are moving towards a more sustainable approach with the use of eco-friendlier materials. The focus is on exploring options for sustainable pallets that cater to companies’ needs.

The benefits and advantages of these wooden materials have been unquestionable in the pallet industry. Nowadays, the emphasis is on cost reduction and optimizing space to transport larger loads.

Evolution in business pallet trends

Pallet trends have constantly evolved since it was decided in 1945 to open entrances on each side. The goal was to be able to move and lift them from various directions to speed up the process. Not to mention that before, during World War II, the criteria were unified, so they had a single size.

Later, the euro pallet arrives, with a single size and a design that is also unique for that continent. Its introduction set a standard for the region, unlike the American pallet. In the United States, pallets are manufactured with different measurements according to the type of platform on which they are to be transported.

Today’s trend is to care for the environment, which is why recycled plastic is used. Using this material seeks to reduce CO2 emissions and comply with current protocols.

Current demand

Apart from the standardization of the pallets industry, there is a strong tendency towards recycling. The pandemic pushed up the prices of pallets due to stoppages in the supply, which accentuated this practice.

Currently, the latest trends in the pallet industry involve the use of substitute materials. We are talking then about plastic as a raw material that provides high utility at low cost.

On the other hand, there is a growth in the purchase of pallets in the Asia-Pacific region for the coming years. Thus, sales of plastic pallets are on the rise in line with the development of that market. According to Mordor Intelligence, 50% of the pallets in Asia’s automotive, pharmaceutical, and beverage sectors are plastic.​​

Custom pallet design

Searching pallet solutions for business efficiency implies that they adjust to some requirements. Custom pallets adapt to unusual dimensions. Among its advantages, we have:

• They are a customizable solution. They are manufactured according to the size specified by the client to match the merchandise to be loaded. So that at the time of packing, there is no damage, facilitating operations.
• No wasted space. Using standard pallets for products with unusual designs makes them less useful because the pallet would not conform to the necessary shape. With the correct dimensions, pallets are stored efficiently and in order, increasing the available space.
• Better inventory management. Warehouse personnel do a better count of merchandise.
• Less damage. When using pallets unsuitable for the size of the merchandise, it can cause the pallet not to resist or not fit in the space provided. The custom pallet is more resistant.
• Strengthens the brand. The company logo can be printed on custom-made pallets, making itself known more and receiving more exposure.

On the other hand, the best wood for making pallets comes from conifers, such as pine and fir. Also, birch, acacias, and chestnut or oak belong to the leafy. They are types of wood that provide great resistance and favor their recovery.

Sustainable wood pallets

Among the pallet trends is the use of sustainable raw materials such as wood. There are different options for sustainable pallets for companies, so sustainable pallets are on the rise. According to data from the USFS, two new ones must be planted for each tree harvested. ​

Per year, in planted specimens, there are around 1,700 million. Therefore, thanks to responsible management, the number of trees doubled in 50 years. For their part, plastic pallets are made with petroleum by-products, the extraction of which is polluting.

​​Another advantage is that the wooden pallets receive new uses at the end of their useful life. Reuse reduces the extraction of new wood. On the other hand, the disincorporated wooden pallet biodegrades, nourishing the soil and benefiting our environment.

Compliance with international standards

When it comes to wooden packaging, compliance with international regulations is crucial. In this sense, the NIMF-15 standard, which ensures sanitary measures, is strictly complied with. Its objectives are:NIMF-15​

• Regulate the wooden packaging used in world trade.
• Prevent the introduction of pests that attack wood to preserve it. Its application is vital since its objective is to stop the spread of diseases and pathogens.

This regulation was created by the Food and Agriculture organization (FAO) in 2022, and although it is not required in all countries, it is mandatory in most. The growing demand for ecological pallets makes this regulation a great support for world trade.​​

Wooden pallets are prone to mold or carry insects that could cause operator infections. Treatment with steam, chemical products, or microwaves is then mandatory. The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) is responsible for its verification, guaranteeing that the wood is checked from its origin until it leaves the country.​​

Choose the right platform for your company

Choosing pallet solutions will be a decision that will impact the structure of your business in some way. Here are some keys to the most popular types of pallets in 2023 according to the material from which they are made:

• Wood. Very resistant and low price. They are the best sellers. Those made of wood fiber are the new trend due to their lightweight and great resistance.
• Plastic. Very resistant to blows and does not need phytosanitary treatment. They are safe because they do not carry nails or splinters.
• Metal. They support weights of up to 2,000 kg. Although they are more expensive, they are more durable and resistant.
• Cardboard. They are disposable, light, and hygienic, ideal in the food industry. They are quite sturdy, so they provide great cost savings. However, its resistance does not compare to that of wooden decking.

According to these criteria, these are the main trends in pallets. Here is a good overview to select the most suitable pallet for your company.

Look for the experts

At DMD, we offer you solutions in high-quality wooden packaging. Our experience guarantees a product tailored to your needs, following international standards. We adapt to what you require. Contact us. We will give you confidence, peace of mind, and best in class products and services.  ​​