A well-prepared pallet is easier to handle, safer to transport and less vulnerable to damage.
Poorly stacked boxes, weak packaging and inaccurate measurements can delay collection or result in the wrong vehicle being allocated.
Before arranging pallet delivery, take the time to prepare the consignment properly.
Start with a sound pallet
Use a pallet that is strong enough to support the total weight of the goods.
Check that it is:
- Structurally sound.
- Free from badly broken boards.
- Suitable for forklift handling.
- Large enough to support the load.
- Appropriate for the consignment weight.
The pallet is the foundation of the entire consignment. A weak base can compromise even well-packaged goods.
Place heavier goods at the bottom
Build the load with the heaviest and strongest items at the bottom.
Lighter or more fragile products should be placed higher up, where they will not be crushed.
Try to spread the weight evenly across the pallet. A load that is significantly heavier on one side can become unstable when moved.
Avoid overhang
Goods should ideally remain within the footprint of the pallet.
Items that extend beyond the edges are more exposed to contact during handling and may increase the overall size of the consignment.
Where overhang cannot be avoided, measure the full width and length of the finished load rather than quoting only the dimensions of the wooden pallet.
Build a stable shape
A compact, level load is easier to secure than an irregular stack.
Where possible:
- Keep boxes close together.
- Avoid large gaps.
- Keep the sides reasonably straight.
- Do not place large boxes on smaller, weaker ones.
- Avoid creating a top-heavy pallet.
- Keep the overall height manageable.
The load should remain stable when the pallet is moved.
Protect vulnerable items
Wrap or package individual items before securing the complete pallet.
Depending on the goods, this may involve:
- Strong outer boxes.
- Protective corner pieces.
- Internal cushioning.
- Edge protection.
- Strapping.
- Protective covers.
Stretch wrap helps keep the load together, but it cannot compensate for poor packaging underneath.
Wrap the pallet securely
Begin wrapping near the base and connect the load to the pallet itself.
Work upwards using overlapping layers. Pay particular attention to the corners and any area where the load could shift.
The completed pallet should feel like one secure unit rather than a collection of boxes resting loosely on top of a base.
Measure and weigh the finished pallet
Measurements should be taken only after the pallet has been completely packed and wrapped.
Record:
- Overall length.
- Overall width.
- Overall height.
- Total weight.
Include the pallet, packaging and any overhanging material.
These details allow the transport company to calculate the space and capacity required.
Label the pallet clearly
The delivery label should be easy to read without removing the wrapping.
Include:
- The recipient’s company name.
- Full delivery address.
- Postcode.
- Contact name.
- Telephone number.
- Reference number.
- Number of pallets.
Remove or cover old labels that could cause confusion.
For multi-pallet consignments, use numbering such as “1 of 3”, “2 of 3” and “3 of 3”.
Confirm loading arrangements
Before collection, confirm whether the site has:
- A forklift.
- A loading bay.
- A pallet truck.
- Suitable vehicle access.
- A requirement for a tail lift.
The delivery location should also be checked separately.
MJ May Transport’s frequently asked questions provide further information about pallet deliveries, vehicle options and loading arrangements.
Disclose special handling requirements
Always tell the transport company about goods that:
- Must remain upright.
- Cannot be stacked.
- Are fragile.
- Are unusually heavy.
- Contain liquid.
- Require specialist handling.
- May be subject to transport restrictions.
Important information should never be left until the collection vehicle arrives.
To discuss UK or European pallet distribution, visit the MJ May Transport Pall-Ex page or request a quotation.
Frequently asked questions
Should wrapping connect the goods to the pallet?
Yes. The wrap should secure the load to the wooden base rather than only surrounding the boxes.
Do measurements include the pallet?
Yes. Provide the complete finished dimensions, including packaging and overhang.
Can an unwrapped pallet be collected?
This depends on the goods. The consignment must be stable, protected and suitable for safe handling.