Pallets are used worldwide for bulk pallet distribution and storage because they are efficient to load and unload. Warehouse racking, lorries and containers can all be optimised thanks to this standardised system.
There are several different sizes of pallets. The most common size is the ISO pallet, which is 1200mm x 1000mm. This is the size used across the UK, Europe, and Asia. 1200mm x 800mm is also used in Europe. In the UK racking systems are typically 1200mm wide so that goods can be efficiently stored whichever pallet is used.
Free-standing pallet storage can be necessary for abnormally shaped or oversized loads. However, a pallet racking system is safer and more efficient than free-standing pallet storage.
Pallet racking increases storage capacity because it facilitates floor-to-ceiling loading, and because pallets are set out in rows it is easier to organise and access stored products. This also improves the traceability of goods because each pallet can have a specific location code.
What are the Different Types of Palletisation?
Pallet racking systems are designed to carry heavy loads and they are often equipped with safety features such as rack guards, protectors, and safety netting to prevent accidents. This is particularly important for professional fulfilment centres where high-density storage and fast goods turnover are the norms.
It is for these reasons that Invo Fulfilment has invested in pallet racking for much of our warehouse space. It improves the safety and efficiency of our workforce and provides our clients with better speed and quality of service.
What is the Outlook for the Pallet Industry?

In the last few years, pallet distribution and storage costs have increased dramatically because of global events. Covid-19 and the war in Ukraine, have restricted supply and increased raw material and labour costs. The post-Covid building and DIY surge have also meant that wood is in short supply. The price of softwood lumber, labour shortages, fire and floods have all put pressure on businesses.
Stuart Hex from the Timber Packaging and Pallet Confederation (TIMCON) said,
“The uneven regional impact of the pandemic has pushed availability down and prices up in many areas. With wood around 70 per cent of the input cost for pallets alone, we expect prices of pallets and packaging to increase and remain high for some time”.
Pallet distribution companies looking to mitigate some of these issues are reusing pallets more often or turning to plastic. Plastic pallets can be customised, are reusable and weigh less than wood, so they offer lower ongoing and transport costs. However plastic pallets cost more, so they need a high initial investment and are made from petroleum-based materials, which are less environmentally friendly.
Pallet recycling means a pallet can be used multiple times, instead of requiring a new pallet for each load. When re-using pallets it is important to have quality control procedures in place so that any second-hand pallets have been inspected and approved for use.
Not only are companies adapting, but there are also signs that supply chains are recovering.
Pallet and fuel costs are starting to stabilise and the global economy is opening up again post Covid-19. The outlook for the pallet industry looks bright after a turbulent few years. The growth of e-commerce and the need for distribution centres and fulfilment services shows no signs of slowing.
Developments in Pallet Distribution Technology

The biggest change in the pallet distribution industry in recent years has been the shift from paper-based systems to digital distribution technology. Software programs have increased the efficiency of pallet distribution operations, making them leaner than ever before.
Distribution technology like route planning and stock control IT programmes can analyse vast amounts of data to help businesses maximise their resources. Digital technology also allows inventory and shipments to be tracked in real-time, improving visibility across the supply chain. Accurate pallet tracking minimises stock loss and damage because there is oversight at each stage of the distribution journey.
Damaged stock loses customers. When margins are tight it can be the distribution service that makes the difference between profit and loss. Distribution companies can only deliver those higher service levels by investing in their employees, as well as new distribution technology.
As sustainability climbs up the priority list for many businesses and their customers, companies are also looking at ways to minimise the environmental impact of distribution. Optimising on-the-road time, using efficient vehicles and carbon offsetting are all useful measures companies can take to be more sustainable. Forward-thinking third party logistics companies are also looking to reduce emissions, through alternative fuels, technology and distribution methods.
Is Hydrogen the Future of Pallet Transportation?

Fuel is one of the biggest economic and environmental costs of pallet distribution. In recent years the price of fossil fuels has been volatile, affected by the Covid pandemic, the war in Ukraine and increased demand. But is there an alternative to diesel when it comes to powering the engines of pallet distribution?
Hydrogen is one alternative fuel starting to gain traction. The UK Hydrogen Strategy, set out the government’s target to produce 5GW of clean hydrogen by 2030. This is part of the wider target to reach net zero by 2050.
The Net Zero Hydrogen Fund (NZHF) has been set up to encourage low-carbon hydrogen technology, with a particular focus on logistics and public transport vehicles. Hydrogen buses have already been rolled out by some companies. Transport for London currently has 3,854 hybrid buses, 785 electric buses and 22 hydrogen fuel cell buses out of a total fleet of 8,795.
It will take long-term investment and improved infrastructure, for these changes to cross over into logistics. Zero emissions will only be possible if 3PL companies move away from diesel. The speed of change in distribution methods towards diesel-electric hybrid and all-electric vehicles is encouraging. But the balance between operational costs and environmental costs is a delicate one, and only time will tell if Hydrogen or Hybrid is the best way forward for the third party logistics sector.
Invo Fulfilment Pallet Distribution

Whatever the future holds for pallet distribution technology, customer experience will be just as important as ever. We pride ourselves in our high standards of service, which is why Invo Fulfilment is one of the most trusted 3PL companies in the UK. Get in touch with Invo Fulfilment today to find out how we can support your pallet distribution and storage needs.
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