2.6. Performance of the types of pallet materials
The theory below highlights the criteria that can be used for the packaging scorecard. This will assist in the evaluation of the performance of the type of pallet materials according to these criteria.
2.6.1. Performance of pallets
It is imperative that when choosing a pallet, the specified performance requirements of the pallets matches the actual accessed pallet capability to ensure the safety and functionality of the unit load (Rupert, 2011). However, with pallets made from alternative materials, manufacturers find it difficult to define the performance of pallets since the manufacturers do not manufacture many customised pallets as wooden pallet manufacturers (Rupert, 2011). The pallet …show more content…
The plastic pallets are known for rarely breaking and, therefore, have a limited deflection level for its load capacity (Rupert, 2011). Paper-based pallets can hold heavy loads, while placed on the floor (Rupert, 2011). However, should a forklift be used to pick it up, the pallet deflects due to the supporting area not being stiff enough (Rupert, 2011). Rupert (2011) states that many pallets have been tested without obtaining deflection measurements; however these pallets should not be ignored. “When comparing different pallet manufacturers or pallets of different materials, it is important that both the strength and stiffness numbers be investigated and compared since even a small deflection can affect the product being transported or stored on a pallet” (Rupert, …show more content…
When testing for durability, usually the measure is on the normal wear and tear of a pallet i.e. how resistant is the pallet to the impact of forks from the forklift on the top deck (Rupert, 2011). Pallets can purposely vary regarding their durability specifications (Rupert, 2011). Rupert (2011) states that the importance of understanding the performance of pallets for safety purposes. For instance, a pallet that is loaded beyond its load capacity is likely to deflect or even break (Rupert, 2011). Therefore, “it is important to match the performance needs of a pallet with the performance capability of that pallet to avoid future costly problems” (Rupert, 2011).
2.7. Performance and Cost optimisation
With different features of a pallet that increases the cost factor of the pallet, it is important to look at ways to reduce the cost of the packaging material as well as reduce damage of the product transported (Clarke, 2007). The pallet designers often find ways to reduce cost by using less material, which result to a lower unit cost (Clarke, 2007). This assists in the reduction of the overall cost of transporting the product. However, it is important to consider the quality of the pallet as the quality and performance of the pallet has a direct contribution to the packaging performance (Clarke, 2007).
2.7.1.
The theory below highlights the criteria that can be used for the packaging scorecard. This will assist in the evaluation of the performance of the type of pallet materials according to these criteria.
2.6.1. Performance of pallets
It is imperative that when choosing a pallet, the specified performance requirements of the pallets matches the actual accessed pallet capability to ensure the safety and functionality of the unit load (Rupert, 2011). However, with pallets made from alternative materials, manufacturers find it difficult to define the performance of pallets since the manufacturers do not manufacture many customised pallets as wooden pallet manufacturers (Rupert, 2011). The pallet …show more content…
The plastic pallets are known for rarely breaking and, therefore, have a limited deflection level for its load capacity (Rupert, 2011). Paper-based pallets can hold heavy loads, while placed on the floor (Rupert, 2011). However, should a forklift be used to pick it up, the pallet deflects due to the supporting area not being stiff enough (Rupert, 2011). Rupert (2011) states that many pallets have been tested without obtaining deflection measurements; however these pallets should not be ignored. “When comparing different pallet manufacturers or pallets of different materials, it is important that both the strength and stiffness numbers be investigated and compared since even a small deflection can affect the product being transported or stored on a pallet” (Rupert, …show more content…
When testing for durability, usually the measure is on the normal wear and tear of a pallet i.e. how resistant is the pallet to the impact of forks from the forklift on the top deck (Rupert, 2011). Pallets can purposely vary regarding their durability specifications (Rupert, 2011). Rupert (2011) states that the importance of understanding the performance of pallets for safety purposes. For instance, a pallet that is loaded beyond its load capacity is likely to deflect or even break (Rupert, 2011). Therefore, “it is important to match the performance needs of a pallet with the performance capability of that pallet to avoid future costly problems” (Rupert, 2011).
2.7. Performance and Cost optimisation
With different features of a pallet that increases the cost factor of the pallet, it is important to look at ways to reduce the cost of the packaging material as well as reduce damage of the product transported (Clarke, 2007). The pallet designers often find ways to reduce cost by using less material, which result to a lower unit cost (Clarke, 2007). This assists in the reduction of the overall cost of transporting the product. However, it is important to consider the quality of the pallet as the quality and performance of the pallet has a direct contribution to the packaging performance (Clarke, 2007).
2.7.1.