Thermoplastic Euro pallets last up to 20 years. After that, they can be recycled.

Plexxgruppen is a leading manufacturer of thermoplastic euro pallets and accessories, which offer a number of advantages compared to traditional wooden pallets. With high durability, low weight, hygienic properties and increased safety, plastic pallets are a cost-effective and sustainable alternative for modern logistics and transport solutions.

Arild S. Johnsen

CEO Plexx

Thermoplastic Euro pallets stacked in warehouse at Plexx – durable and lightweight logistics solutions

In the logistics and transportation industry, pallet selection is a key factor affecting efficiency, cost and sustainability. Traditionally, wooden pallets have been the standard choice for many companies, but plastic pallets have increasingly become a popular alternative. Plastic pallets offer a number of advantages that can provide companies with both financial and operational benefits.

Durability and lifespan

One of the biggest advantages of plastic pallets is their long lifespan compared to wooden pallets. Wooden pallets can easily splinter, crack or break under heavy loads or rough handling. Plastic pallets, on the other hand, are made from durable materials such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), making them more resistant to damage.

While a typical wooden pallet may have a lifespan of only a few years, plastic pallets can last up to 10 times longer, depending on the application. This makes plastic pallets a more long-term investment, as businesses can reduce the need for frequent replacements.

Thermoplastic Euro pallets that stack efficiently and withstand heavy loads in industrial use

PLASTIC PALLETS STACK EFFICIENTLY AND WITHSTAND HEAVY LOADS

Thermoplastic pallets that can be cleaned with a high-pressure washer – hygienic and easy to maintain

PALLETS CAN BE CLEANED WITH A HIGH-PRESSURE WASHER OR DISINFECTED

Hygiene and cleaning

Plastic pallets have great hygiene advantages, especially in industries such as the food, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Wooden pallets easily absorb moisture, which can lead to the growth of bacteria, mold and fungi. This can create major problems in supply chains where cleanliness is essential.

Plastic pallets are non-porous and easy to clean. They can be pressure washed or disinfected without the risk of water damage, making them ideal for industries with strict hygiene and safety standards.

Weight and ergonomics

Plastic pallets are often lighter than wooden pallets, reducing the strain on workers handling them manually. Lower weight also means lower transportation costs, as lighter loads can reduce fuel consumption in shipping vehicles.

Although plastic pallets are lighter than wooden pallets, they are still extremely strong and can carry heavy loads without losing shape or stability, making them an attractive choice for logistics companies looking to optimize both weight and strength.

Custom-made plastic pallets made of thermoplastic for tailor-made logistics solutions

THERMOPLASTIC PRODUCTION REQUIRES CUSTOM-MADE SOLUTIONS

Stable thermoplastic pallets for storing chemicals and heavy industrial loads

HIGH STABILITY IS IMPORTANT WHEN STORAGE OF, AMONG OTHER CHEMICALS

Security

Wooden pallets can be dangerous to handle due to nails, splinters and broken planks that can injure workers. Plastic pallets eliminate these risks, as they have no sharp edges, nails or screws.

Furthermore, plastic pallets are more stable in design, which reduces the risk of cargo tipping over during transport or storage. This safety advantage can help reduce damage to both personnel and goods.

Environmental friendliness and sustainability

A common objection to plastic products is their environmental impact, but modern plastic pallets are often made from recycled plastic and can even be recycled when worn out, contributing to a circular economy where plastic waste is reduced and reused.

In addition, plastic pallets require fewer resources over time, as they have a longer lifespan than wooden pallets. The production of wooden pallets contributes to deforestation, and wooden pallets often need to be replaced more often, which increases the need for wood and energy-intensive production processes.

Recycled plastic granules as raw material for new thermoplastic pallets – circular economy

RECYCLED PLASTIC GRANULATE – RAW MATERIAL FOR NEW PALLETS

Standardization and traceability

Plastic pallets are manufactured with high precision, ensuring uniform dimensions and weight. This makes them ideal for automated warehouse and transportation systems, where consistency is essential for machines and robots to handle the pallets correctly.

Many plastic pallets are also designed to integrate modern tracking systems, such as RFID or barcodes, which make it easier to monitor and manage the logistics flow. Wooden pallets can vary in size and shape due to natural variations in the wood, which can cause problems in automated systems.

Standardized thermoplastic pallets with RFID traceability for automated warehouses

Thermoplastic pallets used in the food industry – hygienic and approved for food handling

IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY, THE PROPERTIES OF PLASTIC PALLETS ARE ESPECIALLY FORTUNING

Resistance to weather and chemicals

Plastic pallets are much more weather resistant than wooden pallets. They are not affected by moisture, meaning they will not rot or warp in wet or humid environments. This is a key advantage for outdoor storage or transportation in harsh weather conditions.

Additionally, plastic pallets are chemical resistant, making them ideal for industries that handle hazardous substances or liquids. Wooden pallets can absorb chemicals, which can make them unusable or dangerous to handle over time.

Cost-effectiveness in the long term

Plastic pallets have a higher initial purchase price than wooden pallets, but are more cost-effective in the long run due to their long lifespan, lower maintenance costs and reduced need for replacement.

Furthermore, plastic pallets can provide savings in the form of lower transportation costs, reduced waste management and improved employee safety. For companies looking for a long-term investment, plastic pallets can therefore be an economically sound choice.

Cross section of plastic pallet with wrapping

COMPLETE PALLET SYSTEM WITH COLLAR AND LID

"With benefits such as increased durability, better hygiene, lower weight, higher safety and sustainable properties, plastic pallets can contribute to more efficient and cost-saving logistics processes."

Analyze your needs and make your choice

While wooden pallets still have their place in the logistics industry, plastic pallets offer a number of advantages that make them a superior choice in many situations. With benefits such as increased durability, better hygiene, lower weight, higher safety and sustainable properties, plastic pallets can contribute to more efficient and cost-saving logistics processes.

Companies considering switching to plastic pallets should analyze their needs and cost structures to determine if the investment will pay off in the long term. With the right strategy, switching to plastic pallets can be a valuable decision for more efficient and environmentally friendly logistics.

Questions and answers about plastic pallets

Plastic pallets can last up to 20 years depending on the application, which is up to 10 times longer than wooden pallets.
Yes, plastic pallets are 100% recyclable. At the end of their useful life, they can be recycled and used to produce new pallets or other products.
Yes, plastic pallets are non-porous and can be disinfected, making them ideal for industries with strict hygiene requirements.
The purchase price is higher, but due to longer lifespan, lower maintenance and reduced replacement costs, they are more cost-effective over time.
Yes, plastic pallets are manufactured with precise dimensions and consistent weight, making them ideal for robots and automated systems.

Do you want to know more about plastic pallets?

We help you find the right pallet solution for your company — contact us for a no-obligation conversation.