Palletising Heavy Equipment: The Essential Dos and Don'ts

When it comes to palletising heavy equipment, there are important dos and don'ts to keep in mind for a smooth and safe process. From selecting the right materials to properly securing the shipment, every step plays a crucial role in ensuring an accident-free operation that is both safe and successful.

In this article, we will guide you through the essential dos and don'ts of palletising heavy equipment, providing you with the knowledge and insights to handle this task with confidence. Whether you are a logistics professional or a business owner looking to transport heavy goods, understanding these best practices will help you streamline operations and keep your valuable equipment in mint condition.

We'll cover everything from assessing the weight and dimensions of the equipment to choosing the appropriate pallets and packaging materials. Additionally, we'll share tips for manoeuvring the equipment onto the pallets and using securing techniques to ensure stability during transit.

By following these vital dos and avoiding the common pitfalls, you can safeguard your heavy equipment and streamline your logistics process for optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Choosing the Right Pallet for Heavy Equipment

Selecting the appropriate pallet for your heavy equipment is crucial for ensuring a secure and stable load. There are various types of pallets available, such as wood and plastic. Each material has its own advantages and considerations.

Wooden pallets are commonly used due to their affordability and availability. However, they may not be suitable for heavy equipment with irregular shapes or sizes. Plastic pallets, on the other hand, are more durable and resistant to moisture and pests. They can be a good option for heavy equipment that requires extra protection. Metal pallets are the most durable and can withstand extreme weight and conditions, but they are also the most expensive.

When choosing a pallet, consider the weight and dimensions of your equipment, as well as any specific requirements or regulations for your industry. It's also important to ensure that the pallet is in good condition and free from any defects that could compromise its integrity during transportation.

Our pallet shipping service requires that your freight must be placed on one of two pallet bases: the standard pallet (120cm x 100cm) or the Euro pallet (120cm x 80cm). You can read more about pallet sizes and the difference between them here.

If your consignment exceeds the footprint of your pallet, then it will be considered an oversized pallet, which we are more than happy to ship - just let us know in advance! It’s also worth noting that a forklift must be present at both collection and delivery points for this type of shipment.

Using the Correct Wrapping and Strapping Techniques

Properly wrapping and strapping your heavy equipment on the pallet is a crucial step that adds another level of safety and protection to your shipment. There are several methods and materials that you can use for wrapping and strapping, depending on the weight and shape of the equipment.

Stretch wrap is commonly used to tightly secure the equipment to the pallet. It is a flexible and cost-effective solution that provides great stability. For heavier equipment, consider using reinforced stretch wrap or shrink wrap to ensure a stronger hold. Additionally, you can use corner protectors or edge guards to prevent any sharp edges from damaging the wrapping or taping.

When it comes to strapping, consider using either strong ratchet straps or polypropylene straps. Ratchet straps are stronger and more resistant to tearing; however, they are also more expensive and usually used for large and heavy loads. Polypropylene straps, on the other hand, are more flexible and easier to handle but not as heavy-duty. Whichever material you choose, make sure to use the appropriate tension and securely fasten the straps to the pallet.

Ensuring Proper Weight Distribution on the Pallet

Proper weight distribution is an important step to ensure balance and stability during transportation. Uneven weight distribution can cause the equipment to tilt or tip over, leading to damage, accidents, or potentially damaging other goods in transit. To ensure proper weight distribution, follow these guidelines:

1. Place the heaviest part of the equipment at the centre of the pallet.
2. Distribute the weight evenly on all sides of the pallet.
3. Avoid overloading one side of the pallet.
4. Use additional support, such as blocks or braces, if necessary, to distribute the weight evenly.

Follow these guidelines and ensure that your heavy equipment is properly balanced on the pallet, reducing the risk of accidents and damage during transit. Quality shipping is about anticipating every eventuality and preventing it.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Palletising

While there are best practices to follow when palletising heavy equipment, there are also common mistakes that you should avoid. These mistakes can lead to damage to the equipment, accidents, and inefficiencies in the transportation process. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:

1. Don't exceed the weight capacity of the pallet or the equipment.
2. Don't use damaged or faulty pallets.
3. Don't stack equipment or materials above the recommended height (the limit is 220cm, and on some occasions 240cm).
4. Don't use inadequate wrapping or strapping materials; if materials look worn out, be sure to replace them.
5. Don't neglect to secure loose parts or accessories of the equipment.
6. Don't rush the palletising process - take the time to ensure everything is properly secured and balanced.

While these are simple considerations, they could be the difference between goods arriving safely and goods being damaged.

Remember, even a small mistake during palletising can have significant consequences. It is better to invest time and effort in ensuring a safe and secure palletising process than to deal with the aftermath of damaged equipment or accidents.

Safety Precautions when Palletising Heavy Equipment

Palletising heavy equipment involves inherent risks, and it is important to prioritise safety during the process. Here are some safety precautions to consider:

1. Ensure that all workers involved in the palletising process are trained in proper lifting techniques and safety procedures.
2. Use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, to protect against potential hazards and accidents.
3. Keep the work area clean and free of obstacles to prevent tripping hazards.
4. Use appropriate lifting equipment, such as forklifts or cranes, to manoeuvre heavy equipment onto the pallets.
5. Communicate and coordinate with other workers involved in the transportation process to ensure a smooth and safe operation.
6. Regularly inspect and maintain your pallets, wrapping materials, and strapping equipment to ensure they are in good condition and functioning properly.

Creating a secure and safe environment for palletising heavy equipment is fundamental to protecting your workers and minimising the risk of accidents.