Pallets Bring the Party this Super Bowl Sunday

Just four days until the big game in Atlanta (and the best commercials of the year). Whether you’re tailgating, hosting a party, or simply enjoying the game in the comfort of your home, we’re confident your experience will be accompanied by finger food and your favorite beverages. But, have you ever given thought to how those savory snacks and bubbly beverages make it to your mouth?

Food Industry and Pallets:

Of course, it all starts with teams of workers in the food & beverage industry. At this time of year, manufacturers and distributors ramp up their shipping operations so that retailers and grocery stores can stock a multitude of tasty game-day treats. However, whether you prefer crackers, chips, or cookies, none of these products would make it to your plate this Sunday without one crucial item in the supply chain.  You guessed it—pallets.

The food industry—and grocery stores in particular—use the most pallets out of any other market. Since shipments tend to be heavy, wooden pallets are used more frequently because they can carry between 1,500 and 3,000 pounds.  In fact, in the United States alone, 40% of wooden pallets in circulation daily are used to ship food including dry groceries, dairy, frozen foods, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

The most common type of pallet used is a 48 x 40 four-way pallet, also known as the GMA pallet. Designed by the Grocery Manufacturer Association (or GMA) with stringers of 48 inches and deckboards of 40 inches, this standardized size simplifies handling since most pallet racks and other equipment are designed for use with a standard pallet.  This means packaged foods and beverages can be quickly and efficiently transported around the country. Also, with a standard size, it is possible for shippers to design a unitized load that is acceptable to nearly every buyer. Plus, GMA pallets are built to be stacked (or nestable), which means they fit nicely together when not in use to help save space on the warehouse floor.

Pallets Earn MVP

Although a low-cost item, wooden pallets are arguably the most valuable product in the supply chain. This warehouse workhorse makes it possible to transport food and beverages with ease from the source to the server. We hope you enjoy the Super Bowl this Sunday with friends, family, and your favorite foods. And, regardless who wins, remember your team at Rose Pallet is always ready to help you tackle your pallet or wood packaging needs.