More Research on Logistical Packaging

Focusing on logistical packaging and into the 2 areas which are containers and pallets.

Firstly, containers..

Standard containers, which are also known as general purpose containers, are enclosed on all 4 sides. However, there are containers withdoors at one or both end(s). In addition, the various types of standard container also differ in dimensions and weight, resulting in a wide range of standard containers. Standard containers are mainly used as 20' and 40' containers but containers with smaller dimensions are very seldom used. Furthermore, the current trend is heading towards using even longer dimensions containers like 45' containers. Basically the advantages of containers are the low material costs, easy to repair however it has high tare weight and is susceptible to corrosion and difficult to clean owing to corrugated walls.

Below is some different types of containers:

Open Top containers - can be used for all types of general cargo (dry cargo).

Refrigerated Containers

This type of refrigerated container has an integral refrigeration unit for controlling the temperature inside the container. When being transported by ship, integral units have to be connected to the on-board power supply system. Refrigerated containers are used for goods which need to be transported at a constant temperature above or below freezing point. These goods are divided into chilled goods and frozen goods, depending on the specified transport temperature. They usually carry fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy products, such as butter and cheese.

Tank Containers
Tank containers are used for holding liquids, sometimes for gases.

Secondly, Pallets..

Pallet is a flat transport structure that supports goods in a stable fashion while being lifted by a forklift, pallet jack, or other jacking device. Items on the pallet are secured with straps or stretch-wrapped plastic film to keep the items on the pallet in place.
While the majority of pallets are made of wood, pallets manufactured from plastic, metal, and paper can also be found. Each material has pros and cons.

Wood Pallets are reusable, repairable, and recyclable and they come from a renewable resource. Wood fiber created by grinding up worn out pallets is used to create products such as fuel pellets, insulation, pressed logs, decorative landscape mulches, home building materials and many other environmentally friendly items.

Plastic pallets are much better as compared to wood and metal pallets. This is because plastic pallets offer distinct safety, ease-of handling, durability, and sanitation advantages over wood or metal pallets. In addition, plastic pallet are produced using high-pressure injection molding which produce sophisticated, complex, & lightweight designs. These results are much more difficult to achieve with other materials and molding processes. A plastic pallet will not rot or rust, and it will not damage the products during storage or shipment (for example, wooden pallets can absorb moisture from fruits and vegetables). The only thing is that plastic pallets are expensive.