EPAL pallets are one of the most widely used load carriers in transport, storage and logistics. They are used by manufacturing companies, wholesalers, warehouses, distribution centres and companies shipping goods in Poland and abroad.
Their popularity is no accident. EPAL pallets have standard dimensions, a defined design and are recognisable in the international movement of goods. For companies, this means easier transport planning, safer storage and less risk of problems when taking delivery.
In this article, we explain what distinguishes EPAL pallets, when it is worth choosing them and what to look out for when purchasing them.
What are EPAL pallets?
EPAL pallets are wooden pallets manufactured to specific quality standards. The most popular model, the EPAL pallet 1, has the following dimensions 1200 × 800 mm and is widely used in European logistics.
This format fits well into warehouses, racks, forklifts, trailers and transport systems. This makes EPAL pallets convenient for the day-to-day work of companies that regularly send or receive goods.
According to EPAL, all newly produced EPAL Euro pallets since 2010 have been heat-treated in accordance with ISPM 15, and the markings on the supports identify pallets that meet this standard.
What makes EPAL pallets special?
The biggest advantage of EPAL pallets is repeatability. A company which orders EPAL pallets knows what size and type of structure it can expect. This is especially important where efficient loading, warehouse automation and safety of goods are important.
EPAL pallets stand out above all:
- standard size 1200 × 800 mm,
- robust construction,
- the ability to work in multiple logistics systems,
- recognition in international transport,
- applications in warehousing, manufacturing and retail,
- markings confirming compliance with the requirements.
For companies, this means less uncertainty in purchasing and easier matching of the pallet to the logistics process.
When is it worth choosing EPAL pallets?
EPAL pallets are worth choosing when a company needs a safe, reproducible and recognisable solution for transport or storage.
They most often work well for:
Regular shipments
If your company ships goods to customers on a daily or weekly basis, EPAL pallets help keep your logistics in order. Their standard size makes it easier to plan loading and use transport space.
Deliveries to large customers
Many warehouses, logistics centres and larger companies require specific types of pallets. EPAL pallets are often an accepted standard and therefore work well for B2B deliveries.
International transport
For overseas shipments, labelling and compliance with phytosanitary requirements are important. The ISPM 15 standard applies to wood packaging used in international trade, and HT heat treatment is supposed to reduce the risk of transmission of harmful organisms.
Heavier goods
A robust pallet is important for heavier products. Poor construction can cause cracks, damage to the goods and problems during transport. EPAL pallets are the pallet of choice where stability and load security are important.
New or used EPAL pallets?
The choice between new and used EPAL pallets depends on the type of goods, the requirements of the recipient and the budget.
New EPAL pallets are the best choice when aesthetics, repeatability and quality assurance are important. They are often chosen by manufacturing companies, exporters and companies sending goods to demanding customers.
Used EPAL pallets can be a good solution for less demanding applications, storage or domestic traffic. However, attention must be paid to their class and condition. A used pallet should be complete, stable and without damage affecting the safety of the load.
On the HERB website, the range includes EPAL pallets as well as used pallets and other types of wooden pallets, allowing you to choose a solution to suit your budget and application.
What to look for when buying EPAL pallets?
When purchasing EPAL pallets, it is not worth looking at price alone. It is much more important whether the pallet will be suitable for a particular process in a company.
It is worth checking before ordering:
1. technical condition of pallets
Pallets should be stable, even and complete. Damaged boards, cracks or a weakened structure may cause problems during loading and transport.
2. designations
Markings on the pallet are particularly important for international transport and when working with demanding customers. For export, IPPC/HT marking in accordance with ISPM 15 is often important.
3. availability of larger quantities
If a company uses several thousand pallets per month, it is not only the price per unit that is important, but also the regularity of supply. A shortage of pallets can stop shipments or production.
4 Transport
When comparing offers, it is worth checking whether the price includes delivery. Sometimes a lower EXW price plus transport turns out to be less advantageous than an offer with delivery to the company.
5. experience of the manufacturer
An ongoing relationship with a pallet manufacturer allows better control of quality, timing and availability. This is particularly important for companies that need regular deliveries.
Why are EPAL pallets important in logistics?
A pallet is not just a wooden platform for goods. In practice, it is part of the entire logistics process. The speed of the warehouse, the safety of transport and the reduction of complaints depend on its quality.
Well-chosen EPAL pallets help:
- improve loading and unloading,
- make better use of storage space,
- reduce the risk of damage to goods,
- maintain repeatable supply,
- meet the requirements of the audience,
- prepare goods for domestic and international transport.
This is why it makes sense to choose a supplier who understands the needs of production, storage and transport when buying pallets for your business.
EPAL pallets in the HERB range
HERB manufactures and sells wooden pallets for manufacturing, logistics and warehousing companies. The range includes EPAL pallets, disposable pallets, English pallets and non-standard pallets. The company emphasises high quality, robust construction, repeatability and delivery throughout Poland.
With in-house production and experience in the industry, HERB can handle both one-off orders and regular deliveries for companies that need an ongoing supply of pallets.
Summary
EPAL pallets are a good choice for companies that need standard, robust and recognisable pallets for transport and storage. They work well in production, logistics, trade and export.
When buying, it is worth paying attention not only to price, but also to quality, labelling, availability, transport and the possibility of regular cooperation.
Looking for EPAL pallets for your business? Contact HERB and ask about the current offer with delivery.
