Skid Pallets: A Classic Solution for Modern Material
In today’s fast-paced logistics and supply chain industry, the efficiency of material handling systems is crucial. Choosing the right load base can directly influence operational speed, safety, and cost-effectiveness. While many companies use modern pallets with advanced designs, the skid pallet—a simpler yet highly functional alternative—continues to hold its place in warehouses, factories, and shipping yards worldwide.
Often considered the ancestor of the modern pallet, skid pallets have been in use for decades. Their straightforward design and adaptability make them a dependable choice for businesses looking for a cost-effective and practical material handling solution.
What Are Skid Pallets?
A skid pallet is essentially a flat platform designed to hold goods for storage, handling, and transportation. Unlike traditional pallets, which feature both top and bottom deck boards, skid pallets have only a top deck supported by runners (stringers) underneath. This absence of a bottom deck reduces weight and cost, while still providing enough strength to carry heavy loads.
Skids can be made from wood, plastic, or metal, depending on the intended use. Their structure allows them to be easily moved by forklifts, pallet jacks, or even dragged across the floor in certain environments—something that isn’t practical with standard pallets.
Historical Background: The Original Pallet
Before the introduction of modern pallets in the mid-20th century, skids were the go-to solution for transporting goods in warehouses, factories, and military operations. They were used extensively in shipping during wartime due to their low cost, ease of construction, and suitability for heavy loads.
Even as pallet technology evolved, the skid’s simple design has ensured it never became obsolete. Many industries still rely on them today, particularly in environments where static storage or short-distance material movement is the norm.
Key Advantages of Skid Pallets
1. Cost-Effective Construction
The absence of a bottom deck board means fewer materials are required during manufacturing. This results in a lower purchase price, making skid pallets an attractive option for businesses that need large quantities for staging or short-term storage.
2. Lightweight and Easy to Maneuver
Skid pallets are often lighter than their full-deck counterparts, which makes them easier to move manually or with equipment. In industries where pallets need to be repositioned multiple times a day, this reduced weight can improve workflow and reduce worker fatigue.
3. Ideal for Static Loads
Because skids rest flat on their runners, they offer stability for loads that will remain in one location for an extended period. For example, a manufacturing plant may store raw materials or partially assembled products on skids until they are ready to be used or shipped.
4. Customization Options
Skid pallets can be designed to meet specific load sizes, weight capacities, or handling requirements. Whether made of hardwood for heavy-duty applications, plastic for sanitary needs, or metal for industrial-grade durability, they can be tailored for virtually any sector.
5. Reduced Floor Damage
The continuous runners distribute weight more evenly, reducing the risk of concentrated pressure points that can damage warehouse flooring—especially in facilities with delicate or polished surfaces.
Types of Skid Pallets
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Wooden Skids – Strong, cost-effective, and easily repaired. Common in manufacturing, construction, and warehousing.
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Plastic Skids – Lightweight, moisture-resistant, and hygienic. Popular in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
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Metal Skids – Built for extreme durability and heavy loads. Often used in military, aerospace, and heavy equipment manufacturing.
Industry Applications
Manufacturing Plants
In manufacturing, skids are widely used to stage raw materials, components, or finished products. For example, an automotive plant might store engine parts on skids near the assembly line, allowing easy forklift access when needed.
Food and Beverage
Plastic skid pallets are a hygienic alternative for food processing facilities, as they resist bacteria, mold, and moisture. They can be steam-cleaned or sanitized to meet strict industry regulations.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Skid pallets made from high-grade plastic or coated metal are ideal for pharmaceutical storage and transport, where contamination prevention is paramount.
Export Shipping
Lightweight wooden skids are often used for one-way shipments overseas. When heat-treated according to ISPM-15 standards, they comply with international shipping regulations and are cost-effective for goods that won’t require pallet return.
Construction Sites
Heavy-duty wooden or metal skids are used to store and transport construction materials like steel beams, piping, or cement bags. Their stable base helps prevent tipping during handling.
Skid Pallets vs. Standard Pallets
| Feature | Skid Pallets | Standard Pallets |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom Deck | None | Yes |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Cost | Generally Lower | Moderate to High |
| Handling | Can be slid/dragged | Lift only |
| Floor Contact | Full runner contact | Less floor contact |
| Stability on Racks | Less stable | More stable |
| Ideal Use | Static loads, short-distance moves | Racking, long-term storage |
Considerations When Choosing Skid Pallets
Before deciding to use skid pallets, businesses should consider:
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Load Weight – Heavy loads may require reinforced runners or metal construction.
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Handling Equipment – While skids can be moved with forklifts and pallet jacks, they are not always ideal for automated conveyor systems.
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Storage Method – Skids are better suited for floor storage than racking systems, due to their lack of a bottom deck.
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Environmental Conditions – Plastic or metal skids may be more suitable in wet, humid, or sterile environments.
Sustainability and Reuse
Many skid pallets, especially those made from wood, can be repaired and reused multiple times before reaching the end of their life cycle. Wooden skids can be recycled into mulch or fuel, while plastic skids can be reprocessed into new pallets or other products. This makes them an environmentally friendly choice for companies looking to reduce waste.
Conclusion
Skid pallets may be one of the simplest material handling solutions, but their efficiency, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness have allowed them to remain relevant for decades. Whether used in a manufacturing plant, export operation, or construction site, they provide a stable and practical platform for goods of all shapes and sizes.
While modern pallets offer advantages for racking and automation, skid pallets remain unmatched for certain applications—especially where cost, ease of movement, and floor stability are top priorities. For many businesses, they represent not just a piece of material handling equipment, but a time-tested tool that keeps operations moving smoothly.
