Timber pallets have been around for decades, but are you aware of the quarantine risks associated with their usage? Using plastic export pallets avoids any issues with termites, other timber-borne insects, moulds and fungi: better for the environment all round!
Traditionally, international transportation has relied on wooden structures, such as timber pallets, to support cargo in transit. The cargoes themselves are regulated by quarantine, requiring identification by type and origin; however, the same does not apply to the timber pallets used in their transport.
Using plastic export pallets for transporting goods internationally offers some benefits that you may want to consider.
Quarantine risks with timber pallets
The Australian Quarantine Inspection Service identifies a number of quarantine risks associated with wooden packaging, including the removal of bark. Bark removal is essential in order to:
- make cargo easier to inspect visually
- minimise chemical treatment failures
- minimise the risks of pests that both depend on bark and are present in soil entering Australia
- reduce infestation risks.
As a result, timber pallets are required to be treated, either by heat or chemical treatment, to reduce the risk of pests spreading. These timber bearing insects and forest organisms pose a significant threat to Australia’s timber industry so it is vital that the risk of introducing them into our country be minimised.
Plastic export pallets are easily sanitised
Plastic pallets, on the other hand, can be simply cleaned by hosing with water and dry quickly, whereas wet timber is an attractive environment for mould, fungi and insect pests.
Because plastic export pallets do not require treatment, they are safe from toxins and can be used safely by hand.
Using plastic export pallets avoids these quarantine risks and offers greater protection for our environment as a result. Of course, an additional benefit is that plastic pallets can be recycled as well, further minimising the impact on our forests.
Check out our range of plastic export pallets – we offer a wide range of sizes and shapes suitable for every situation.
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