All kinds of businesses use pallets for storing and transporting goods; pallets are the unsung hero of the world of logistics. For anyone who wants to know more about the ISO-TC 51 pallet standards, read on for a quick look at the guidelines from ISO.
What Is the ISO?
The ISO is a non-profit international organisation of standardisation. Based in Geneva, the organisation strives to standardise all areas of trade and commerce to make international trade much smoother and easier for everyone. It also assures a generally high level of quality in goods exchanged across the world. The ISO has technical committees dedicated to the standardisation of many industrial areas including food, IT and waste as well as in logistics such as pallet standards.
ISO-TC51- Pallet Use in Unit Load Method of Materials Handling
This specific technical committee was set up to help aid the standardisation of pallet use in unit load method of materials handling. The committee test pallets to ensure a certain standard of quality is adhered to. This quality applies to the development of pallets – the wood used and the accessories such as nails and screws used to hold them together. It also applies to the shape, size and repair of pallets. They then instruct on the standards that need to be meet.
For logistics companies or for companies that dispatch large amounts of goods, understanding the ISO-TC51 pallet standards is as important as sourcing the right pallet wrapping machines. Pallet wrapping machines will also aid with the unit load method of materials handling and should be sourced from reputable firms like http://www.packaging-machines.co.uk/.
Full information can be found on the ISO website which details the findings of each pallet-related report undertaken by Technical Committee 51. The most important reports for logistical firms however include ISO 8611-3:2011, which relates to the maximum working load of new pallets and ISO 6780:2003 which relates to flat pallets for intercontinental materials handling.
When you buy pallets ensure they meet ISO standards or you may be liable for damage to goods caused during the transportation process. Getting your head around pallet standards isn’t just about ticking a box in a rule book. The standards exist to protect the health and safety of logistical employees as well as the safe carrying of your goods, whether you are buying or selling them.