Process Overview: As inventory is picked and pallets are built, the pallets are typically transported throughout the facilities on pallet jacks. As taller pallets are constructed, they become less stable; especially when being transported by a pallet jack. To prevent cartons from falling and inventory becoming damaged, certain pallets should be pre-wrapped by the picker or material handler. The process below should be used when pre-wrapping pallets.
Please use the below criteria when determining whether a pallet should be pre-wrapped:
- Pallets must be pre-wrapped if the stack height exceeds 60” off the pallet.
- Pallets must be pre-wrapped if any item weighs more than 30 lbs and the stack height exceeds 3 layers.
- Pallets must be pre-wrapped if any item from the third layer-up breaks the outside perimeters of the pallet.
- Always err on the side of caution: Pre-wrap any pallet that doesn’t fall inside of these parameters if the picker/material handler deems it necessary for the safety of the employee and the safety of the inventory.
Step 1: Put enough stretch wrap between two corner cartons (typically towards the bottom) so that it stays in place while completing the first layer of wrap around the pallet.
Step 2: Continue wrapping until the cartons on the pallet are stable and no longer have a risk of tipping over and falling off. The length of wrap required for each pallet may vary depending on the items being wrapped and the orientation of the cartons on the pallet.
- *Note– While wrapping, make sure to keep a consistent firm stretch on the film to ensure the cartons are as secure as possible. Each layer should overlap the previous layer while moving up or down the pallet.
Step 3: Once the wrapping has been completed, cut the wrap, and stick it to the existing wrap on the pallet.
This completes the process of pre-wrapping pallets.