Shipping Chemicals Safely: What to Look for in Your Pallet Partner
Pallet specs for drum and tote transport? Let’s start there—because if you’re moving chemicals, chances are high you’re dealing with drums, totes, or both. And most of the time, that means you’re looking for heavy-duty 48x48 drum pallets—built to handle serious weight, hold steady during loading, and keep containers secure.
But the right dimensions are just one piece of the puzzle.
Chemical shipments come with high stakes. A bad pallet can mean spills, contamination, or fines. Here’s what to look for in a pallet partner that actually understands your industry.
1. Precision Pallet Specs: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
From 48x48 drum pallets to custom-sized builds for chemical totes, precise specs matter. Too much deck spacing or a mismatched height can cause load shifts—or worse, prevent safe forklift handling.
Look for a supplier who:
Offers exact builds for your container types
Knows what makes a pallet drum- or tote-friendly
Provides quick lead times when your operation can’t afford to wait
2. Sturdy, Durable Pallets that Prevent Spills
Chemical containers are only as safe as the pallets holding them. Flimsy, cracked, or worn pallets create risk—especially with bulk liquids and hazardous materials.
Choose a partner who supplies:
Heavy-duty pallets built for industrial use
Tight-deck or solid-top designs that reduce leak and spill risks
Pallets that are inspected and consistent
3. ISPM-15 Compliance for International Shipping
Exporting chemicals? You’ll need pallets that meet ISPM-15 standards—heat-treated, marked, and ready for customs inspection. No certification? Your shipment could be delayed, denied, or destroyed.
Make sure your supplier:
Certifies all export pallets
Understands global compliance requirements
Can provide documentation and support
4. Moisture- and Chemical-Resistant Materials
Chemicals can corrode pallets—or be contaminated by them. That’s why your supplier should offer materials and treatments that resist breakdown from spills, moisture, or harsh conditions.
Ask about:
Coated or chemically treated pallets
Species of lumber best suited for your materials
Options for combo or recycled pallets with protective finishes
5. Why Pallet Integrity Is a Safety Standard
This one’s often overlooked—until there’s a problem. Damaged pallets aren’t just an inconvenience; they’re a safety hazard. Whether it’s a cracked board or a splintered stringer, compromised pallets can lead to dropped drums, chemical leaks, or injuries.
Good partners will:
Inspect for damage regularly
Help you track pallet condition and rotation
Understand that compliance starts at the base of your load
Final Thoughts: Choose a Partner Who Knows the Industry
At Pallet Pro, we get that pallets aren’t just a commodity—they’re a compliance tool, a safety measure, and a critical part of your chemical supply chain.
We provide:
· 48x48 drum pallets and custom builds
· ISPM-15 certified options
· Durable, chemically resistant materials
· A team that understands the needs of chemical manufacturers
Need reliable pallets for chemical transport?
Let’s talk about how we can support your specs, safety goals, and timelines.
