1915-First Production of Wooden Pallets
Commodity packaging was extensively used in the 20th century, and it is still happening to date. For many years now, timber has been used to transport commodities in form of boxes, kegs, crates barrels, and wooden crates. Nevertheless, in 1915, the very first wood pallet was produced which closely resembled a top deck of our modern standard pallet. 40 years later after the invention of wooden skids, the forklift was invented. It helped upsurge the capacity of commodities that could be carried, increasing efficient packing in warehouses.
1925- Official Invention of Wooden Pallets
In 1925, the wooden pallet was officially invented. With the forklift in mind pallets were designed, the bottom plank was boosted by adding blocks which created enough space for inserting fork tines. Boards’ increment enhanced the distribution of weight, and in turn, it reduced product damage. Wood pallets made transportation easier and also it improved time efficiency. However, it did not look like the modern day solid classic model. It was a wooden board pinned through two or more runner panels, escalating the platform higher enough to accommodate the modern forklift prongs beneath. Eventually, after adding the board that secured the bottom, the model that resembled skid advanced to be a wooden pallet we are acquainted with today. Much later, the four-sided pallet advanced which made it easier to access forklift from any side. The wrapping and packing industry is among the most energetic and dynamic industries in the UK.
1954-1968 – Intensive Increase of Wooden Pallets Usage
During the time, the usage of wood pallet increased significantly, and businesses realised the impact it brought which in turn led many companies to make it a compulsory requirement. In 1954, pallets business boomed since it was the only choice for shipping. As companies were rebuilding their warehouses, they designed them in a way they could accommodate the modern wooden pallet. Due to this, there was an increase in storage capacity and labor costs were reduced.
In 1961, the use of Euro pallet started gaining momentum and it was then that the International Union of railways signed the agreement approving the use of ‘standardised and exchangeable pallets’ This made it possible for load rail road carts which increased the loading processes. The best thing about these pallets is that they were economical in construction and were designed to pass through standard doorways.
The year 1968 was another revolutionary year for pallets. It was standardised even more after many Canadian grocery chains came together to decide how a pallet could be used for exchanging goods.
During the 1980s the (NAPD) National Association of Pallet Distributors was formed. It was the first association to start reconditioning, repairing and reusing used pallets: Which grew in momentum and today it is considered to be the most desirable activity.
Wooden Pallets Today
Today pallets are widely used, and it is hard to imagine how businesses could be without them. It is important to note that the pallet has played a very crucial role in not only the shipping industry but also in the global economy. For instance, in the supply lines during the world war ll, millions of pallets were provided. In the 1930s a lift truck that carried 13,000 canned cases of commodities would take almost three days to offload. With the same capacity of commodities using wooden pallets, the offloading time reduced up to astounding 4 hours. Promptly, businesses could load and unload trucks.
In addition to the improvement of the forklift truck, pallets have offered a significant influence through the way commodities are handled, stored and conveyed. The innovation of manufacturing pallet using the plastic, primarily metal and new materials has made it possible to produce pallets in different shapes and sizes.
