Greener Pallet Deliveries

Since their creation in the early 1990s, pallet networks have provided a more sustainable way to move freight. But this wasn’t done by design. Pallet networks operate using the hub-and-spoke distribution model, whereby incoming freight is sorted at a central facility and grouped together based on delivery location. Initially, this concept was designed to provide a cheaper and more efficient way to send small consignments of palletised freight, with the benefit of reduced emissions and higher vehicle utilisation only realised later on.

By consolidating freight, pallet networks achieve an average vehicle fill of 76%, 22% higher than the wider road transport sector, which takes an estimated 800 vehicles off UK roads each day. This results in less noise, less congestion, and fewer miles travelled to deliver the same amount of freight, lowering emissions and reducing the carbon footprint of each pallet.

Despite already providing a more sustainable service, pallet networks are still investing in new technologies that will make the business model even more eco-friendly.

Electric vans and lorries have become popular investments for road transport companies looking to decarbonise their fleet. These are becoming increasingly commonplace in densely populated cities with good charging infrastructure in place, reducing emissions in polluted areas. And it’s not just on the roads that new vehicles have been making an impact. Electric forklift trucks have been decarbonising warehouses for the last few years, with hydrogen-powered options also growing in popularity, matching the productivity of gas-powered alternatives.

Smart route planning will also play a huge role in decarbonising freight deliveries. It uses AI technology to generate the most efficient delivery route, while taking into account any booked or time-specific deliveries. This not only ensures freight is delivered quickly but also reduces mileage and lowers emissions.

Many logistics businesses are now introducing carbon reporting tools to monitor the carbon output of their freight deliveries. By gathering data on the vehicle type used at each delivery stage, the distance travelled, and every movement through a sorting facility, emissions can be calculated accurately to help businesses make meaningful changes to achieve net-zero goals.

At Pall-Ex, we’re committed to building a more sustainable future for the logistics industry. With the goal to be net-zero by 2040, we have been investing in zero-emission vehicles, building new software such as NexusETA and NexusCO2, and planning for a more environmentally-friendly operation with the development of our new central hub. To find out more about how Pall-Ex can help contribute to a greener future for your freight deliveries, get in touch.