Failure by management to take a global view when it comes to pallet buying is costing companies far more money than it should, according to the National Association of Pallet Distributors (NAPD).
NAPD members say buyers are often briefed to pay as little as possible for the most pared down specification.
But short-term cost-cutting can result in long-term expense in terms of both time and money, according to NAPD spokesperson Greg Milton.
He said a sound specification for a multi-trip pallet can be more cost-effective in the long term, saving on both the cost of the pallets and packaging waste obligations.
To control costs, the NAPD advises companies to buy quality used pallets or reuse their own. Companies can also contract to have pallets repaired by specialists or sell them to a ready market.
‘Management would benefit from re-thinking its approach,’ said Mr Milton.
