AN increasing number of logistics and supply chain professionals are switching from wooden to plastic pallets, according to Dan Starnes, sales director at goplasticpallets.com.
Dan told Packaging Scotland that the benefits of plastic pallets include strength, reliability and consistency in size, which makes them ‘far superior’ for carrying heavy loads and for use in automation systems.
“They are easier to clean and more hygienic, as they don’t harbour bacteria and pests like wood,” Dan added. “They also last up to and beyond ten years, compared to wooden pallets that might need repairing or replacing several times over that time period.
“The upfront investment may be higher, but you’ll make significant long-term cost savings by making the switch. We have thousands of customers who are using the same reliable plastic pallets they acquired from us more than a decade ago.”
Dan highlighted the sustainability benefits, including the fact they help to reduce deforestation. He agreed that demand from customers for more environmentally-friendly products is on the rise.
“In 2026, businesses are well aware that they have a responsibility to act more sustainably, which includes greener supply chains. It’s important to their staff, their suppliers and partners, as well as future customers.
“For example, our own logistics partner, which we use to deliver pallets across the UK, continues to invest in its own eco-friendly fleet to drive down emissions. This is incredibly important to us. We all have a collective responsibility to act in the best interests of our planet, and that extends to business relationships.”
Dan added that while plastic has a negative reputation, there’s a difference between single-use items and the type of products goplasticpallets.com is offering.
“High quality, reusable plastic is one of the most sustainable choices a company can make for their supply chain,” he explained. “A well-made pallet can be used for ten years or more before it needs to be replaced, and when it does reach the end of its life, it can be fully recycled into new products. This is the circular economy in action!
“In fact, we operate our own recycling service, and we take full responsibility for recycling all of the plastic pallets and boxes we supply. Since 2019, we have recycled more than 2,700 tonnes of plastic. That is the equivalent of around 455 truckloads.”
The company recently launched two new bale arm crates to its portfolio, described as the largest on the UK market. Dan revealed another range that continues to grow in popularity is the firm’s foldable sleeve packs – with sales increasing by 24% last year.
“The CabCube 1210 9F 2.0 is an extremely robust 1210 x 1010 x 990mm box, which saves approximately 75% storage space when collapsed,” Dan said. “This saves vital space when not in use, not just in the warehouse, but also within trailers during return journeys, which helps to cut carbon emissions.”
In Scotland, the business has been supplying products to companies across the nation for more than 20 years – including businesses working across food manufacturing, food processing, growers and pharmaceuticals.
“We really value these long-standing relationships, and they show no sign of slowing down,” Dan concluded.
