The buying brief for warehouse distribution loads
Distribution pallets need to suit both dispatch and receiving equipment. Ask for the full handling chain, including transfers and any temporary storage.
Agree what a used pallet must meet before it enters this handling route. Recycled stock should be selected against an agreed acceptance checklist rather than appearance alone.
What needs particular attention
A base suitable at dispatch may be incompatible with the receiver’s rack or conveyor. Describe unacceptable damage, contamination and previous markings. Confirm the agreed grade with photographs or inspection criteria and keep rejected stock separate.
| Load to describe | Cartons moving through more than one warehouse |
|---|---|
| Product-specific details | Handling chain; load height; rack beams; conveyor contacts; receiver base policy |
| Order-specific details | Accepted grade; inspection criteria; damage exclusions; quantity |
| Pallet footprint | Confirm 1200 × 800 mm and any additional construction or pool requirements. |
| Handling route | State how the loaded pallet moves, is stored and is accepted by the receiver. |
Prepare the enquiry
- Include a photograph or drawing of cartons moving through more than one warehouse, with the packed dimensions and loaded mass.
- Explain handling chain; load height; rack beams; conveyor contacts; receiver base policy so the proposed base can be compared with the load.
- Add accepted grade; inspection criteria; damage exclusions; quantity and distinguish confirmed requirements from items awaiting a decision.
- Send the delivery postcode and unloading arrangements. Ask for availability, suitability and delivery to be confirmed in the quotation.
Use the Euro pallet quotation checklist to bring those details together. For a condition comparison, see new versus recycled Euro pallets.
Before agreeing the order
Review the proposed base against the packed goods, the handling equipment and the receiver’s written policy. If an eligible exchange pallet is required, state that separately from the 1200 × 800 footprint. Confirm treatment and marking requirements for export where relevant.
Keep the agreed specification with the dispatch instruction. If the packaging, load pattern or handling route changes, revisit the enquiry rather than assuming the previous base remains suitable.
