Some businesses are hesitant when choosing to use recycled pallets. This is due to misconceptions and inaccurate statements about aspects such as the durability, safety and cleanliness of recycled pallets in circulation. At Export Pallets, we use modern recycling processes that meet certified industry standards and offer businesses a reliable, cost-effective and sustainable solution.
Follow along in this blog article while we debunk some common myths and misconceptions that users may have surrounding recycled pallets. We’ll explain why they are a safe and smart choice for businesses looking for pallets.
Myth 1: A recycled pallet is weaker and less durable than new pallets
As part of our standard procedure at Export Pallets, all of our pallets – recycled or new, undergo strict and rigorous inspections and quality control checks to ensure that our customers receive strong and reliable pallets.
Before our pallets are sold, each pallet is inspected to ensure that they meet the high standards we have for our pallets. Only the pallets that meet certain standards are deemed eligible to sell to our customers.
Myth 2: Recycled pallets aren’t suitable for heavy duty loads
When older pallets are taken in and restored with new timber to provide even more support, these renewed pallets become just as strong as brand new pallets. This ensures they are more than capable of handling heavy duty loads in the same way as new wooden pallets.
Myth 3: A recycled pallet doesn’t last as long as a brand new pallet
As previously mentioned – when old, worn down pallets are brought in to be refurbished and reinforced, the revitalized pallet can be just as durable and long-lasting as a new pallet (depending of course on the usage rate and maintenance level). Many recycled wooden pallets remain in circulation for years, with most only requiring minor adjustments and touch-ups to keep them in top notch usable condition.
Myth 4: Recycled pallets are not environmentally friendly
Yes – recycled wooden pallets are constructed using timber (which is a finite resource), however recycled pallets are one of (if not, the most) eco-friendly solutions in the logistics industry. Not only do these recycled solutions reduce waste by preventing usable wooden materials from ending up in the bin, but these pallets also remain in circulation for an extended period of time. This allows companies to recycle the wooden pallets and lower their carbon footprint by reducing the need to produce new pallets.
Additionally, there are so many different ways that you are able to use a pallet once you have finished with it. Read our blog post on 5 creative ways to recycle your pallets.
Myth 5: Recycled pallets are more prone to mould and bacteria
Recycled wooden pallets are no more susceptible to mould than brand-new pallets. All wooden pallets (new or recycled) must be heat treated and follow ISPM-15 regulations. This reduces the risk of any moisture being present which may potentially harbour harmful bacteria and pests.
For best practice, it is best to ensure that your wooden pallets are to be kept in a dry, moist-free and well-ventilated area to avoid the chance of any moisture buildup. You can read more about how to properly store your wooden pallets here.
So is a recycled pallet safe to use?
Following this article, after debunking some common myths and misconceptions about renewed pallets, it is clear that they are a suitable option for businesses as they provide strength, sustainability and durability at a more cost-effective price point than new pallets.
Contact us at Export Pallets today to see how we can provide you with recycled pallets to achieve your business goals and improve your business operations. Get in touch with us on (03) 9369 4497 or email us at info@exportpallets.com.au.