On Friday the 13th, it’s easy to get caught up in superstition. We avoid ladders, mirrors and the paths of every black cat we see in hopes of warding off bad luck, and we keep rabbits feet, pennies and four-leaf clovers to attract good fortune.
Of course, we know these superstitions aren’t real, just customs based on myths, misconceptions and old wives’ tales. Sometimes, superstitions and myths go beyond harmless fun and make an impact on our decision-making, including when it comes to purchasing and using pallets. In this post, we hope to clear up common myths we see in the pallet and packaging industry.
Myth #1: Wood pallets are less environmentally friendly than plastic pallets.
Because plastic pallets can typically be used more times than wood pallets, many people think they are the more eco-friendly option. However, it’s important to note that wood is a natural, renewable resource, and wood pallets are biodegradable. Wood pallets can be reused and repaired several times, and when they reach a point at which they can no longer be used, they can be turned into mulch and other useful materials. Close to 95 percent of pallets are recycled and repurposed, and the few that do end up in landfills are often recovered and used as biodegradable material.
Myth #2: Recycled pallets are not as good as new pallets.
In many cases, recycled or repaired pallets work just as well as new pallets while having significant cost savings. At Millwood, our highly-automated sort and repair processes allow us to deliver consistent, reliable results and high-quality repaired pallets. New pallets may be a better option when custom sizing is required, but by and large, recycled pallets save money and resources.
Myth #3: Pallets and skids are interchangeable.
Many people confuse the terms pallet and skid, but they are not the same, and one should not be used in place of the other. Pallets and skids are similar, but one key difference is that skids do not have bottom deck boards. Having bottom deck boards makes pallets more stable during transport. Skids are appropriate as storage platforms for machinery and other heavy loads that won’t be moving frequently.
Myth #4: Softwood pallets are less sturdy than hardwood pallets.
This myth persists because people confuse these terms. Softwood and hardwood refer to a type of wood’s density, not its durability. Softwood pallets are not less sturdy or durable than hardwood.
We hope these explanations will help relieve you of any pallet superstitions that may influence your purchasing decisions. If you have further questions or would like to learn more about what Millwood has to offer, reach out to us today!
