Pallet Shipping FAQ

What is a pallet shipment and when should I use it?

A pallet shipment is a method of transporting goods that are secured onto a pallet and moved using freight handling equipment such as forklifts or pallet trucks.

Pallet shipping is recommended for heavier, larger, fragile, or high-value goods, or when multiple parcels need to be shipped together. It provides greater stability during transit and reduces the risk of damage compared to standard parcel networks.

What pallet shipping services do you offer?

We offer a range of pallet shipping solutions worldwide, including door-to-door and door-to-airport/port services, depending on the destination and shipment requirements.

Shipments can be transported via road, air, or sea freight, with the most suitable option selected based on factors such as destination country, transit time, shipment size, and delivery requirements.

Which couriers do you use for pallet shipments?

We work with a network of trusted international freight and pallet carriers. The carrier used will depend on the destination, service type, and shipment requirements.

Some services operate on a business-to-business (B2B) basis only, while others support both commercial and residential deliveries where available.

Can pallet shipments be delivered to residential addresses?

Yes, residential delivery is available in some regions, depending on the carrier and service selected.

However, pallet deliveries are typically kerbside only, meaning the driver will deliver to the nearest accessible point outside the property. Residential deliveries may also require a tail-lift vehicle and can incur additional charges due to limited access or handling requirements.

How is pallet delivery carried out?

Pallet deliveries are usually made on a kerbside basis, using tail-lift vehicles or loading equipment.

The receiver is responsible for unloading the pallet unless prior arrangements have been made. Business addresses with loading bays or forklift access are generally more suitable for pallet deliveries.

Does customs clearance differ for pallet shipments?

Pallet shipments are handled through freight networks and may require additional documentation compared to standard parcel shipments.

Depending on the destination, the receiver may need to assist with customs clearance or appoint a third-party customs broker, particularly for air or sea freight and door-to-airport/port services.

Why does my pallet need to be changed or repacked on arrival at the warehouse?

Sometimes goods arrive on pallets or in wooden crates that are suitable for domestic use but not approved for international shipping.

For international transport, wooden pallets and crates must be ISPM15 compliant, meaning they are heat treated or fumigated and stamped to meet international export regulations.

If a pallet is not compliant or suitable for export, we must transfer the goods onto an approved export pallet or re-pack them using compliant materials. This ensures the shipment is not delayed or rejected by customs authorities.

What is ISPM15 and why is it required?

ISPM15 is an international standard for wooden packaging materials used in global trade. It is designed to prevent the spread of pests and diseases through untreated wood.

Most countries require wooden pallets and crates used for international shipping to comply with ISPM15 regulations. Non-compliant packaging may be delayed, rejected, or subject to additional inspection or treatment by customs authorities.

What affects the cost of pallet shipping?

Pallet shipping costs can vary depending on:

• Destination country
• Shipment size and weight
• Delivery type (business or residential)
• Service type (air, road, or sea freight)
• Customs requirements
• Access and unloading requirements

How long does pallet shipping take?

Transit times vary depending on the destination and service selected. Freight shipments may also be affected by customs clearance, carrier schedules, and local delivery conditions.

Delivery times are estimates and can vary between regions and service types.