Pic. 1.3 Safe pallet use

Loading pallets

Pallets should be loaded to an established pattern designed to achieve maximum stability and safety within the rated load. Loads should be applied gradually, and unless the pallet has been specifically designed for point loading, should, as far as possible, be uniformly distributed over the deck area. As a general guide, the load height should not exceed the longest base dimension of the pallet.

Pic. 1.4 Pallet shrinking

Shrink or stretch wrapping the load usually provides greater security, minimizing the possibility of movement of goods – it may be possible, in certain circumstances, to safely transport loads taller than the largest base dimension of the pallet, e.g. palletized loads approximately to the internal height of closed vehicles. This should only be done where you have carefully assessed the stability of the load components, the load configuration and any special features such as wrapping, strapping etc.

Transshipment from rail to road transport

For loading and unloading of cargo which was transported using containers on pallets and crates, on open platforms, platforms and inside cars, used trucks, and in