Unit Load Formation Equipment

Because of the increase in demand from the customers, it has always an issue to transport all their orders in the least number of trips to maintain low transportation cost. Unit load formation equipment used to restrict materials so that they maintain their integrity when handled a single load during transport and for storage. Furthermore, by packing small number of goods for shipment into one unit, damages and pilferages of these goods aer kept to a minimum. By unitisation, it is less strenuous to unload or load goods packed in standard large loads than in different kinds of packages. Standard handling and storage equipment like the forklift can be used as goods are palletised into a single unit. Below are the unit load formation equipment that are use in different situation.

1. Pallets



These platforms are usually made from wood or plastic that has enough space beneath the top surface to allow the forklift to insert its fork for lifting purpose. Other types of material that is use to make pallet includes paper, metal as well as rubber. These pallets normally come in the measurement of 1200 X 800 mm. This is the standard pallet measurement in Europe as it is compatible with most railcar and truck trailer.

2. Tote Pans



Tote Pans are usually made from metal or plastic. They are reusable containers that use to load up loose discrete items that need more protection against rough handling. Tote Pans are usually used for in process-handling. However, they can replace cartons and being use for distribution as well.

3. Pallet Box



These wooden/metal/plastic boxes are being intact to pallets, therefore called the pallet box. Having a pallet intact below would means that they can be lift by forklift easily. They are reusable containers that are use when there are loose items that need protection from fork/platform truck handling.

4. Bins/Baskets/Racks



These are storage equipment that are use to store loose item in the warehouse itself. They are usually being transfer to other storage equipment like pallet box when it is distributed.

5. Cartons



They are disposable containers that are use for distribution. Given its weight, they are the most commonly used storage equipment. The dimension of the carton come is varies depending on the situation. These cartons are usually place on pallet and transfer to vehicles via forklifts. Because of its flat surface, they can be easily stacked when needed.

6. Bags



Made from paper or polymerized plastics. These containers are very light in weight however does not give much protection for its items. They are usually being pack together in a bigger container like carton or pallet box so take they can be stackable.

7. Bulk Load Container



This is a reusable container that can be use to store solid and liquid items. This storage equipment includes drums and cylinders. They can be both use for in-processing handling and distribution.

8. Crates



Often made from wood, this storage equipment is usually use to transfer large size and quantity items.

9. Strapping Tape



Make from either plastic or steel. These are use when the items need to be stabilized. In other words, the items are tied to prevent them from being loose with transporting them.



During stretch wrapping process, items will be wound around by film to prevent irregular shape item to be loose during distribution.