The allowable pallet shipment weight is determined by the entire transport and handling arrangement. The pallet, vehicle, lift equipment and loading locations each impose their own constraints. The lowest relevant limit can determine what is workable.
Distinguish the different capacities
| Capacity | What it concerns |
|---|---|
| Pallet rating | The load carrier under its specified conditions |
| Vehicle payload | The weight the assigned vehicle can legally and safely carry |
| Tail-lift capacity | The lift operation with the actual load configuration |
| Forklift capability | The equipment at the required load centre and lifting conditions |
An EPAL pallet’s published rating does not mean every tail lift can handle a pallet loaded to that rating. Dense loads can also require attention to weight distribution and lifting access.
Quote gross weight
Include the goods, pallet, crate and all packaging. If the shipment has several units, give the weight of each as well as the total. A shipment total alone can conceal one exceptionally heavy unit.
Use a reliable weight rather than an unsupported estimate. Where the exact figure is pending, identify it as provisional and confirm it before booking is finalised.
What happens with heavier units?
A suitable forklift, dock, specialist vehicle or other handling method may be required. The manager needs the dimensions, weight, base construction and equipment at both addresses to assess the arrangement.
Do not assume the driver can compensate for missing equipment by manual handling. See forklift requirements and measurements and gross weight.