For those outside of the materials handling industry, pallets might seem like a just basic commodity. But for those of us on the inside, pallets are an essential component that can have a major impact on an operation’s process and ultimately its bottom line. In August, Modern’s 2011 Pallet Survey was sent out to subscribers. We received 594 qualified responses from readers employed at a facility that actually uses pallets. Here’s what the readers told us.

Pallets are the foundation of the materials handling industry. Here’s why they are important to our readers.

When the beer giant revamped its dunnage processes, it realized significant cost savings, ushered in a safer work environment, and found a more fluid freight model—all while helping the company get a little greener.

Supply chain veteran assumes leadership of the pallet company

When it comes to outsourcing, most of us think of turning over warehousing or transportation to a third party to reduce operating costs. But outsourcing pallets can deliver the same benefits.

Ralph Rupert brings systems based approach to unit load design

The new plastic grocery pallet from ORBIS is designed for better truckload utilization, increased shipping efficiency, long service life

On-line portal leads to greater visibility of available inventory and fewer new pallet purchases.

A pallet maker from south of the border is eyeing the US market

A leaner, faster production process with zero defects and just-in-time (JIT) inventory management is an elusive manufacturing goal for most manufacturers.