Paramount Pallet Blog

Enhancing the Automotive Supply Chain with Custom Pallet Solutions

Written by Phillip Davoro | Jun 14, 2023 5:00:00 PM

Automotive businesses must consider a range of factors when selecting pallet suppliers. Things like size, pallet grade, and durability are all important considerations that help ensure the efficient and safe transportation of parts from one location to another. At Paramount Pallet, we work with automotive businesses to forecast their pallet requirements for the upcoming year, helping them order the right amount of pallets at an early stage and eliminating the need for extra orders that can result in unnecessary costs and waste.

Custom Solutions for Automotive Customers

Recently, we partnered with two major automotive manufacturing companies who were facing challenges in their sustainability efforts and required specialized pallet solutions. As a trusted pallet provider, we were ready to step in and supply them with the custom pallets to help them with their unique requirements.

Sustainable Initiatives

Prior to our partnership, these two automotive manufacturing companies weren't fully considering the environmental implications of discarding used pallets. Recognizing this, Paramount Pallet offered a straightforward and environmentally-friendly solution. Trailers were provided for easy collection of used pallets, which were then responsibly recycled and repaired before being reintroduced to the market. This process allowed the companies to load the trailers at their convenience and simply call for pick-up when ready. In one case, over 1,300 pallets were collected and more than 470 were repaired. By managing the account details and offering a return based on pallet count, Paramount was able to provide a solution that not only assisted the companies in reducing their carbon footprint, but also contributed to their bottom line, demonstrating the tangible benefits of pallet management on sustainability.

Custom Pallets

In addition to sustainability opportunities, Paramount Pallet identified that these customers were facing issues with securing customized pallets tailored to their specific needs. The automotive industry poses unique challenges, as each manufacturing plant often produces different parts, each requiring distinct types of pallets. While there is a general preference for standardization with 48 x 45 inch pallets in the industry, custom pallets are also crucial for specific applications. For example, a manufacturer producing rims might require steel pallets, while others producing different components may need wood pallets of varying sizes, shapes, or weight capacities, depending on their unique product characteristics. Recognizing these diverse requirements, we began by consulting with both customers to gain a detailed understanding of their specific needs. Following these discussions, the companies were able to supply custom pallets that perfectly accommodated each customer's products.

Factors To Consider In Your Pallet Supplier

Sizing

Automotive manufacturers use a wide range of pallets, chosen based on the size and weight of their products. One popular pallet size is the 48 x 45 inch pallet, which is commonly used because it fits well with standard totes. At Paramount Pallet, we offer services to create pallets that are designed specifically for our customers' needs. This ensures that the pallets work perfectly for shipping their products.

Grading

Pallets are graded based on load capacity, dimensional requirements, structural strength, cleanliness and more. Automotive customers most often require reliable, durable, and environmentally-friendly pallets, such as new and combo pallets. Made from new stringers and recycled boards, combo pallets are a popular choice among automotive customers. Due to the weight of automotive products, these pallets are a great solution since they are deemed structurally sound enough to be reused at a more affordable price.

Durability

The durability of pallets is particularly crucial in the automotive industry. This is because durable pallets ensure that products are transported securely from one place to another with a reduced risk of damage. This protection minimizes the potential for accidents or loss of goods due to substandard pallet design, which could result in expensive returns or replacements. Additionally, hard-wearing pallets contribute to waste reduction as they have a longer lifespan and don't require frequent replacement. This leads to businesses saving money on maintenance costs in the long run.

Sustainability Practices

The automotive industry has shown great strides towards sustainability by implementing green initiatives in its manufacturing process. The same can be achieved with pallets. By repurposing broken pallets that would otherwise end up in landfills for reuse, Paramount Pallet reduces waste without sacrificing quality or performance. Sustainability is of utmost importance to automotive customers and many are now appointing environmental experts to lead their initiatives, and we work closely with these individuals to help them reach zero carbon emissions targets.

Let's Talk Pallets

As Canada's premier pallet manufacturer, Paramount Pallet brings a comprehensive solution to your pallet needs. Our nationwide service includes supply, retrieval, and customization of pallets, all tailored to optimize your business's resources.

With a team of seasoned experts at your disposal, we're committed to delivering excellence. Reach out to us today for a personalized quote, or to further explore how we can provide the pallet solutions that your business requires.