Protect Your Pallets from Old Man Winter

Our headquarters are situated just outside Chicago. So, we know cold. Bitter, biting cold. Usually we don’t experience our first snowfall until November, but it can occur as early as next month! Winter weather doesn’t just impact our way of life, it also affects the condition and performance of pallets. But, there are simple steps you can take to protect your pallets from Old Man Winter. Just as you would pack away outdoor furniture and bring it inside, for example, pallets fare better in a warm and dry place too.

Here’s what can happen if you leave your pallets outside in the elements. And, what you should do to help your pallets weather any winter storm.

POTENTIAL ISSUES:

1. A Frosty Encounter – Pallets are made from green wood with a high moisture content. If left outside in cold weather, stacks of pallets can freeze together. Pulling them apart, even after brought up to room temperature, can result in damage.
2. Hide and Seek – A sudden storm can quickly dump snow and pile it high enough to cover any pallets left outside. Snow can become hard blocks of ice making excavation difficult, dangerous, and–depending on the tools used–damaging to pallets. Wet pallets can thaw out inside and survive; but, in some cases, snow damage can render them unusable.

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:

1. A Degree of Difference – Pay attention to the weather and, when the thermostat drops below 32°F, take your pallets inside.
2. Dry Run – If your pallets do experience frost conditions, make sure they are clean and dry before they are sent back out in circulation.

Ultimately, being mindful of how weather can impact your pallets and taking proper precautions will ensure the best performance and maintain the quality of your supply. For more helpful information, contact the pros at Rose Pallet.