Are you still manually measuring the dimensions of your pallets, only to be hit with unexpected fees at shipping time? Accurate pallet measurements are crucial for compliance with carrier guidelines and freight invoicing.
In this article, we will equip you with the knowledge and resources you need to ensure precise and efficient pallet measurements by manual means as well as with the use of a pallet dimensioner.
Why measuring pallets are important?
One of the main benefits is that it allows for accurate invoicing of shipping goods. When a pallet is accurately measured, it can help to prevent disputes and misunderstandings overcharges. When invoicing is inaccurate, it can lead to missed charges or overcharges, which can result in lost revenue for the shipper or carrier.
Accurate invoicing is also important for compliance with legal regulations. If invoicing is not accurate, it can lead to the carrier or shipper not meeting their legal requirements, which can result in fines or penalties.
Additionally, measuring pallets can aid in warehouse slotting. By accurately measuring the size and weight of each pallet, warehouses can optimize their storage space and improve their overall efficiency.
Principles of the measuring process
In short, measuring a pallet is quite a simple task - measure the width, length, and height at the widest, longest, and highest points, respectively.
However, when other complexities come into play, knowing the principles of the measuring process can become quite useful.
There are several different methods for measuring a pallet, but the most common method is by manual means. While it is not the fastest or most accurate method it gets the job done.
When measuring the pallet, it’s helpful to be aware of the international pallet size standards. In Europe, pallets typically measure 120 cm x 80 cm (31.5” x 47.3”), whereas in Australia, pallets are 116.5 cm x 116.5 cm (45.9” x 45.9”), and in Asia, it’s 110 x 110 cm (43.3” x 43.3”). In the USA the two most used size is 101.6cm x 121.9cm (40” x 48”).1
Once you know or have measured the size of the pallet, you can then measure the height of the pallet by measuring from the bottom of the pallet to the top of the highest point on the pallet.
In addition to measuring the pallet itself, it is important to consider the weight of the pallet as well. The weight of the pallet can affect the dimensional weight of the pallet, which in turn significantly affects shipping costs.
To accurately measure the weight of a pallet, it is important to use a pallet scale. This tool is specifically designed to measure the weight of a pallet and will give you an accurate reading of the weight of the pallet and its contents.
While a standard 120 cm x 80 cm pallet can hold up to 2.3 tons, it's important to note that carriers, forwarders, or retailers who handle your pallets may have specific requirements for pallet size, dimensions, and weight.
Other factors
Another important factor to consider is the pallet overhang. Pallet overhang happens when items extend beyond the edges of the pallet.
This can have a significant impact on the dimensions of a pallet as it can affect the overall size and transportation cost of the pallet as well as the safety of the pallet during transit. A good practice is to try to avoid any overhang when loading items on a pallet.
To quicker and more accurately measure a pallet with overhang, a dimensioning system or more specifically a pallet dimensioner can come into guide use. A pallet dimensioner allows you to measure the pallet and the overhang quickly and easily, without having to manually measure each individual component.
The last factor to consider is measuring a partial pallet - a pallet that is not fully loaded with items, also known as a less-than-pallet load (LTL). Measuring a partial pallet is ultimately similar to measuring a full pallet, but with some additional considerations.
Measure the width, length, and height of the load on the pallet, making sure to include any overhangs. Measure the empty space on the pallet and record those measurements as well.
This is done because some carriers may charge based on the weight and dimensions of the entire pallet, including empty space, while others may charge based on the dimensions and weight of the load alone. Be sure to check with your carrier or freight forwarder to determine how they will charge for a partial pallet shipment.
Take note that if the cargo is not stable or is overhanging from the pallet, the carrier may require additional packaging or bracing to ensure safe transport.
Next steps
After measuring your pallets or freight precisely, reach out to your carrier to obtain a quote for your shipment. Accurate invoicing can be achieved automatically by connecting a dimensioning system with the transport rates. This way, freight invoice auditing can be done by storing the transport cost, volume, and pictures of the pallet. This serves as proof of the dimensions and condition of the pallet before transport to avoid damage disputes.
Provide them with the dimensions, origin, destination, and other necessary details. Accurate measurements will prevent you from having any unexpected issues arising and eliminate any possible surcharges.
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