PalletAuditsShipping pooled pallets to customers outside the pallet network
What usually happens when CHEP, PECO or iGPS pallets go to a customer that doesn't return them, and how to avoid paying for lost pallets.
Why it costs you
Pooled pallets are meant to move between companies that take part in the pallet company's program. When a load goes to a customer that doesn't, the pallets usually don't come back, and they are typically billed to you as lost, often with a surcharge on top. Your contract sets the exact fees.
How to spot it
Look at the customers you ship to on pooled pallets and ask: does this customer return pooled pallets, or let the pallet company collect them? Small independents, export loads and some regional customers often don't.
In PalletAudits, mark those customers as outside the pallet network. Every audit then lists the loads that went to them on pooled pallets, with what they're likely to cost.
What to do instead
Ship those customers on whitewood (owned) pallets, or on a pool they do return.
If the volume is steady, ask the customer whether they'd join the network or arrange collection.
Find your missing pallets
PalletAudits matches every shipment to a declared transfer and lists what to declare, dispute and recount. Your first audit is free.
Run a free audit See a sampleMore guides
- How to run a CHEP pallet audit at your warehouse
- Why your pallet count doesn't match the pallet company's balance
- Pallet transfer declarations, explained
- How to reconcile a PECO pallet account
General information, not advice about any specific contract. Your agreement with the pallet company sets the actual fees and deadlines.