Let’s dive straight into it. Timber pallets, often used for shipping and storage, may seem like a cost-effective solution at first glance. However, further exploring their unreliability and shorter lifespan, unveils that this may not be the case.

Due to being made from a natural product, timber pallets are prone to warping, cracking, and splintering. Many end-users find when they are working with heavy equipment, that boards come loose, strapping loses its tension, and components can go flying.

Their strength and reliability can also vary due to natural conditions. Sometimes timber pallets can be hard and brittle, due to dry weather, and sometimes they are full of tannin, which can inconveniently leak all over your workshop.

These issues can lead to damaged goods, delayed shipments, and ultimately, extra expenses for replacements and repairs.

In addition to this, timber pallets do not come with an engineered rating. Some companies sell ‘rated timber pallets’, but this rating is only indicative, meaning it does not guarantee the pallet will hold up in an emergency braking situation. What does this mean? Timber pallets can cost lives.

Moreover, the lifespan of timber pallets is significantly shorter compared to alternative options. Timber pallets are a consumable, not an asset. This means you’ll find yourself constantly having to replace worn-out pallets, adding up to a higher overall cost in the long run.

Considering the unreliable nature of timber pallets and their frequent need for replacement, it becomes clear that they are indeed a waste of money.