Prepare Your Supply Chain for 2024

Your Product

The first step in understanding your pallet needs is to assess your product. Whether you're handling a load of bagged mulch or a shipment of bottled water, the choice of pallet can make all the difference. Both of these products are heavy, but they have characteristics that demand different pallet specifications. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that the complexity of your product and how it's arranged on the pallet can directly impact the grade of pallet needed.

Specific Retail Requirements

Many retailers have specific pallet requirements, so it’s crucial that your products are palletized in compliance. For example, some retail giants demand Premium A or block pallets, while others exclusively accept Premium A pallets. It's essential to remember that while not all retailers have stringent pallet specifications, most do. Your pallet supplier should be familiar with the precise pallet specifications of your retail customers and able to help prevent complications further down the supply chain.

Racking Systems

The racking systems in your warehouses can be as diverse as the products they house. The design of your system can significantly influence the pallet grade that is most suitable for your storage needs. Robust racking systems that offer more stability can accommodate lower-grade pallets, while more intricate systems may require the use of Premium A or A-grade pallets.

Automation

Automation has become a fundamental aspect of product handling, rooted in the concept of standardization. In today's automated supply chains, sensors oversee quality and specifications, necessitating careful consideration of pallet selection. For instance, robotic forklifts are precisely programmed to work with specific pallet specifications, and any deviation can disrupt the entire production process. It's essential to have a comprehensive understanding of your automation requirements, as it saves valuable time, enhances overall productivity, and prevents potential disruptions.

When choosing a pallet supplier for your supply chain, you need to consider a partner that is in-tune with industry trends. A supplier committed to continuous learning and evolving standards can help prevent compliance-related issues as they arise. Additionally, they should be able to anticipate emerging market trends so that your business has a seamless flow of goods without major delays. This can ensure that your supply chain is resilient and adaptable in the face of raw material challenges or when disruptions may be caused by global market conditions.

A good pallet supplier shouldn’t just deliver pallets; they should also provide advice and guidance. Look for experience working with all pallet types, including hardwood, softwood, new, recycled, heat-treated, and custom pallets. A seasoned provider will work with you to introduce new solutions to increase efficiency and, more importantly, explain why that solution would work best for your supply chain. This will give you the opportunity to focus on your business and leave the pallet management to them.

In the world of pallet supply, you should try to never find yourself in a situation where your supplier is in a constant state of disarray whenever you place an order. Even worse, the dreaded scenario of hearing that they're out of stock. A dependable supplier should not only claim to have a stable supply, but also provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of their supply chain. This includes detailing their sources, logistical processes, and, most importantly, their emergency backup strategies.

Evaluate the Operation

Inspect Pallet Storage and Production

Asses Equipment and Safety Protocols

Pay attention to the equipment used, such as tractors and trailers. Ensure that the supplier can provide the equipment specified in their bid. Additionally, focus on safety protocols within the plant. Look for signs emphasizing safety for employees and visitors, check if employees wear necessary safety gear like reflective vests, boots, and protective eyewear. Observe how materials and equipment are handled, and inquire about safety processes and performance. This will help gauge the efficiency of the operation and the value placed on safety.

Take Detailed Notes

Company-Owned Fleets

Ideally, your chosen supplier should maintain their own fleet of trucks. If they rely on third-party trucking services, ensure that their contract enables flexibility to meet your business demands. Additionally, you should know the third-party's insurance coverage and their adherence to OSHA regulations, as well as any other transportation standards specific to your industry. Opting for a provider with a self-operated network can reduce risks associated with third-party outsourcing.

See how 48forty helps customers lower their carbon footprint and achieve their sustainability goals in a cost-efficient manner through company-owned fleets.

Selecting a pallet provider with a strong track record of on-time deliveries and complete order fulfillment is a pivotal step toward an efficient supply chain. On-time delivery reflects how consistently the delivery truck arrives on time. This punctuality in a supplier will show their commitment to meeting your requirements without causing delays. Simultaneously, the fill rate measures the percentage of your order that is effectively delivered. In essence, did you receive the exact number of pallets you ordered, or was there a shortfall?

In today's digital landscape, data breaches occur often – and businesses in the supply chain industry are no exception. You need a pallet supplier who is fully compliant with data security regulations and monitors their systems for unusual activity. They should have a post-data breach plan in place that includes notifying customers, patching vulnerabilities, and establishing a clear timeline for updating all impacted systems. By doing this, you can help protect your financial stability and reputation in the industry

When choosing a pallet supplier, you should consider how they manage their billing system. Will you be sent separate invoices from various pallet supply locations, or can the vendor streamline the process by providing a single, consolidated invoice? Another valuable asset to consider is if their invoices are customizable to include data points that align with your specific needs. A supplier that offers a straightforward, well-integrated, and adaptable billing system is not only more convenient to work with but also contributes significantly to their overall value as a partner in your supply chain.

PalTrax is designed to simplify your account management, making it easy to find the information you need. Learn more about 48forty’s comprehensive online pallet management system here.

Unforeseen challenges can disrupt any supply chain at any moment. Selecting a pallet provider who considers possible issues and has a business continuity plan in place is essential. You can evaluate their preparedness by asking key questions such as whether they have the capability to shift production to an alternative facility, ideally located far enough away to evade widespread disasters. Additionally, inquiring about their plans for re-routing deliveries in case of route disruptions can help your business maintain service quality even if unforeseen circumstances come up.

As one of the country's largest pallet companies in North America, 48forty Solutions offers a network that spans over 251 facilities, including 73 company-owned and operated pallet recycling plants, 160 onsite and offsite locations, 14 reusable asset depots, 4 service centers, and more than 850 partners. With a dedicated account manager, we stay in close touch to adapt to your changing requirements – no matter the industry you’re in.

Whether you're a local, regional, or national operation, we look forward to assisting you with your pallet needs.