Plastic pallets vs. wooden pallets: which is the best choice for future warehousing and logistics?
Publish Time: 2025-12-31 Origin: Site
Article 1: Plastic Pallets vs. Wooden Pallets: The Future of Warehouse Logistics
Plastic Pallets vs. Wooden Pallets: Which Is the Best Choice for Future Warehouse Logistics?
1. Plastic Pallets: Features & Benefits
Key Characteristics
Advantages: Fumigation-free, clean appearance, easy to sanitize. 5–7x longer lifespan (5–10 years) than wood, 100% recyclable (HDPE/PP materials meet EU REACH standards). No nails/spikes, non-toxic, corrosion/flame-resistant, and static-safe.
Disadvantages: Higher upfront cost, limited size flexibility, temperature-sensitive (-25°C to 40°C). Recycled PVC variants may contain toxins (avoided by exporters).
Weight: Blow-molded 9-leg pallets: 7–14kg; double-sided blow-molded pallets: 16–40kg (optimized for manual/mechanical handling).
Smart Compatibility: Standardized sizes support RFID chips, seamlessly fitting AGVs and automated warehouses (wooden pallets have size inconsistencies).
2. Wooden Pallets: Features & Limitations
Key Characteristics
Advantages: Made from solid wood (pine, poplar, hardwood), high strength/load capacity, low upfront cost ($8–$11 per unit).
Disadvantages: Flammable, water/damage-prone, pest-susceptible. Exports require fumigation (adds cost/delay), and production harms deforestation goals.
Weight: Light-duty: ~7.5kg; standard 1000×1200mm: ~15kg; EU/CP7 pallets: ≥20kg (heavier due to thick lumber).
3. Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | Plastic Pallets | Wooden Pallets |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | 5–10 years; corrosion/insect-resistant | 1–3 years; 42% nail loosening after 6 months |
| Hygiene | FDA/GB4806-compliant; export-exempt | Requires fumigation; bacteria-prone |
| Sustainability | 100% recyclable (EU REACH-compliant) | Deforestation-heavy |
| Cost | Higher upfront; 18% lower annual logistics loss (case: global retailer cut 12% labor costs) | Lower upfront; high long-term maintenance |
| Load Capacity | 1.5–2t dynamic; 4–8t static | Strong initially; deforms over time |
4. How to Choose
Environment: Prioritize plastic for temp fluctuations >30°C or humidity >70%.
Operations: Choose plastic for >50 daily turns (lower maintenance).
Compliance: Use FDA/GB4806 plastic pallets for food/pharma.
Economics: Lease plastic pallets if annual use cost >15% of purchase price.
5. Choosing the Right Plastic Pallet
Size: Match to cargo dimensions/container fit (e.g., 1100×1100mm fits 2 rows in 2300mm containers). Common sizes: 1210 (international), 1208 (EU), T11 (Japan).
Single-Sided vs. Double-Sided: Use single-sided for manual handling; double-sided for stacking/heavy loads.
Load Requirements: Limit shelf deflection to ≤20mm (stricter for automated warehouses).
Conclusion
Article 2: Container Shipping Sees 3 Consecutive Rises: Pre-Spring Festival Boom Drives Rates
Container Shipping Market Sees 3 Consecutive Rises: Pre-Spring Festival Boom Drives Major Route Rates
Major Route Gains
Shanghai → European base ports: $1,690/TEU (+10.24% week-on-week)
Shanghai → Mediterranean base ports: $3,143/TEU (+10.94% week-on-week)
Shanghai → US West Coast: $2,188/FEU (+9.84%)
Shanghai → US East Coast: $3,033/FEU (+6.57%)
Market Differentiation
Outlook: 2026 GRI Announced
US West Coast target: $3,000/FEU
US East Coast target: $3,900/FEU
European routes: +~$1,000/TEU