Preparing Your Pallet for Collection and Delivery

1. Choose a Strong, Stable Pallet

When sending a pallet, make sure you use a good-quality wooden pallet that is strong enough to support your goods. 

• Use a sturdy, undamaged pallet that can withstand multiple handling points. Pallets are typically handled between 6–8 times during transport. 
• For tail-lift collections or deliveries, use a high-quality 4-way entry pallet. 
• Goods must not overhang the edges of the pallet base. Overhanging items are at risk of damage and may be refused for collection. 

If your pallet is broken or unstable, replace it before collection to avoid delays. 

2. Secure and Protect Your Goods

Properly securing your goods is one of the most important steps in pallet preparation. This ensures your items arrive safely and intact. 

• Use strong banding or shrink wrap to fasten goods tightly to the pallet. 
• Wrap the goods onto the pallet, not just around them — this helps to keep everything stable during transit. 
• Pallets may be exposed to the weather, so wrap your pallet fully for rain and dust protection. 
• Perform a simple stability check — if you can move or tip the load by gently pushing it, it’s not secure enough. 
• For half or quarter pallets, clearly mark “Do Not Stack” if stacking could cause damage. 

3. Declare an Accurate Weight

Always provide the correct total weight of your pallet. Incorrect weight declarations can lead to delays, failed collections, or cancellations. 

Providing an accurate weight also helps us ensure your goods are handled safely within the Palletways network. 

4. Label Your Pallet Clearly

Clear labelling ensures your pallet arrives at the right destination without delay. 

• Attach labels to at least two sides of the pallet. 
• Include all the following details: 
• Sender’s full name and address 
• Recipient’s full name, address, and postcode 
• Any reference numbers or contact details 

Well-labelled pallets move more efficiently through our pallet delivery system, helping ensure a smooth service from collection to delivery. 

5. Maximum Weight per Pallet

Make sure your pallet does not exceed the maximum weight per pallet limit to avoid rejection or damage during transport. Our pallet dimensions and weight limits are listed on our website’s FAQs page. 

Why Proper Pallet Preparation Matters

Following these pallet preparation steps helps: 

• Prevent damage during pallet shipping 
• Speed up collection and delivery times 
• Ensure your pallet moves safely through the Palletways UK network 

Taking time to prepare your pallet properly helps guarantee a smooth, reliable delivery experience — whether you’re sending a single pallet or arranging regular pallet deliveries across the UK.