Wood pallets are one of the most important logistics tools ever invented. Do you ever wonder where wood pallets come from? Pallets are relatively cheap. Typically, a standard-sized pallet of 48″ x 40″ is sold for $11 to about $12.50 each. These wonderful, inexpensive tools are something that every supply chain around the world depends on.
Approximately 2 billion pallets are in circulation at any given time. Just about every industry on the planet relies on pallets in their supply chain. Who imagined that a few boards strung together would be so heavily relied upon to transfer, store, and ship goods around the globe?
Necessity Is the Mother of Invention
The idea of using a wooden platform to store and transport goods dates back to ancient Egyptian times. While a pallet is similar to a wooden platform, it has certain traits that make it very different and much stronger. Back in 1925, Howard T Hallowell is credited with patenting the modern-day skid pallet. He called it the “lift truck platform”. While Mr. Hallowell was the patent holder of this newfangled platform, it was the American military that made the pallet popular.
During World War II soldiers struggled with getting supplies. The supplies were arriving on the front lines, but they were not arriving in good condition. An easier, more protective, and more efficient method of transportation was needed. Since WWII, skid pallets have been adopted as the standard method of shipping, storing, and today even in displaying goods in retail locations. Mr. Hallowell would be surprised to learn how much of an impact he has had on the global supply chain.
What Makes a Pallet So Strong
Skid pallets can hold up to 4,500 pounds. The positioning of the stringers and other parts gives the pallet strength and durability to stand up to the toughest weight loads. The original design was well thought out and engineered to distribute and hold a tremendous amount of weight without buckling. The design has not changed over the last 100 years.
The lowly pallet has changed how the world manages its supply chains and logistics. Everything from warehouse design to delivery entrances are designed around the pallet.
If you are looking for custom pallets near Denver, you already understand that not all pallets are created equal. Whether shipping heavy machinery, delicate electronics, or beverage products, the right pallet design can make all the difference in efficiency, product protection, and cost control. This post will explore why custom pallets matter, what sets local […]
When it comes to Colorado beverage logistics and packaging, manufacturers need more than standard solutions. From craft brewers to bottled water brands, the right packaging determines whether your product reaches customers intact and on time. At Conner, we understand the unique challenges that come with moving beverages, and we design solutions that combine strength, efficiency, and […]
Wondering if you need custom container crates in Colorado? If your operations involve valuable, fragile, or uniquely shaped items, the answer is yes — and working with a local Colorado partner can make all the difference. We have served the Colorado manufacturing sector since 1982, delivering custom wooden crates, pallets, and integrated packaging with quality […]
