Knowledge
The load capacity of plastic pallets
Every pallet has three load values. Which one counts for you depends on how you use the pallet: on the floor, on the move or in pallet racking.
Static load
The static load is the maximum weight a pallet carries when it stands still on a flat, level floor. Think of floor storage or block stacking. If you stack loaded pallets on top of each other, the bottom pallet carries the weight of all the pallets above it. That total weight must stay within the static load.
Dynamic load
The dynamic load is the maximum weight a pallet carries while it is moving, for example on a forklift, a pallet truck or a roller conveyor. Because of acceleration, braking and small shocks, this value is lower than the static load.
Racking load
The racking load is the maximum weight a pallet carries in pallet racking without decking, when it rests only on the two beams. This is often the decisive value, and also the lowest. Light pallets are not intended for racking.
How does Q-Pall test the load ratings?
We determine the racking load in a test with 25 kg bags on a conventional pallet racking system: the pallet rests with its runners on the two beams, without a shelf underneath.
We test our pallets with an evenly distributed, stable and homogeneous load of bagged goods, for a predetermined period at an ambient temperature of 20 °C. Different load conditions may lead to different results and must be assessed separately.
Tips for the right choice
- Choose with a margin. Take a pallet whose value is well above the weight of your heaviest load.
- Watch the distribution. Point loads and unevenly distributed loads reduce the capacity.
- Look at the beams. Place the pallet in the racking with the runners at right angles to the beams, as intended.
- Temperature matters. At high temperatures, plastic becomes slightly more flexible. At low temperatures, it becomes stiffer and more sensitive to impacts.
For every model on our site, you will find the three values clearly side by side. Not sure? Contact us and we will gladly help you with the calculation.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which load is the most important?
That depends on how you use the pallet. If you store pallets in racking, the racking load is decisive. If you move a lot with a forklift or pallet truck, the dynamic load counts. For stacking on the floor, look at the static load.
Why is the racking load so much lower than the static load?
In racking, the pallet rests only on two beams and the middle is unsupported. On the floor, the pallet is supported across its entire surface. That is why a pallet can carry much more on the floor.
Do the values also apply to a point load?
No. All values assume an evenly distributed load. A point load or an uneven distribution reduces the usable capacity. So always check the pallet with your own load.