Nestable plastic pallet or pallet with runners? As long as the pallets are loaded, the difference is hardly noticeable. It becomes obvious in the empty-pallet store at the latest: nestable pallets slot into each other, while pallets with runners lie on top of each other at their full height. This comparison helps you weigh up the two designs. You will find all models in the plastic pallets category.
The differences at a glance
The values come from our product data. As nestable pallets, we use the TIDUS Light 1210, the Bekuplast light 1208 pallet with 9 feet and the Eco pallet 1200 x 800 mm; as pallets with runners, the TIDUS medium 1208 3R and the TIDUS Heavy 1208 3R.
| Criterion | Nestable pallet with feet | Pallet with runners |
|---|---|---|
| Stacking when empty | pallets slot into each other | pallets lie on top of each other at full height |
| Dead weight | 4.5 kg to 6.5 kg | 12.5 kg to 16.5 kg |
| Static load | 2,500 kg | 5,000 kg |
| Dynamic load | 1,000 kg to 1,200 kg | 1,200 kg to 2,000 kg |
| Racking load | no value in the product data | 500 kg to 1,000 kg |
| Formats in the examples | 1200 x 800 mm and 1200 x 1000 mm | 1200 x 800 mm |
The values apply to the models named and are manufacturer information. The respective product page is always decisive.
How to calculate the space needed when empty
For a reliable space calculation you need two values: the height of the pallet and the amount by which a stack grows with each additional pallet.
- Pallet with runners: each additional pallet adds its full height to the stack. According to the product data, that is 150 mm for the TIDUS medium 1208 3R and 160 mm for the TIDUS Heavy 1208 3R. The stack height is therefore the number of pallets times the pallet height.
- Nestable pallet: the feet of the upper pallet sink into the lower one. The stack only grows by the so-called nesting height per pallet. This value is not given in the product data. Measure it on a sample or ask us before ordering.
Then calculate with the height actually available in your empty-pallet store, vehicle or rack. Allow a safety margin for picking up the stack with a forklift or pallet truck. This quickly shows you how many empty pallets fit on each storage space.
What speaks for nestable pallets
- Little space when empty: nested inside each other, empty pallets need much less height than pallets with runners.
- Low weight: the examples weigh between 4.5 kg and 6.5 kg, which makes manual handling easier.
- Internal logistics and export: the product text of the TIDUS Light 1210 names internal logistics and export as its uses.
- Options: the Bekuplast pallet has an anti-slip edge 6 mm high. For the Eco pallet, the data lists an anti-slip rim and clip-on runners as options, and for the TIDUS Light 1210 an anti-slip edge and runners.
On the other hand: in our examples, the dynamic values are lower than for the pallets with runners, and the product data gives no value for racking. Please check before ordering whether a nestable pallet still nests once runners are fitted.
What speaks for pallets with runners
- Higher loads: both examples state 5,000 kg static; dynamic values are 1,200 kg for the TIDUS medium 1208 3R and 2,000 kg for the TIDUS Heavy 1208 3R.
- Racking: the product data states 500 kg for the medium pallet and 1,000 kg for the Heavy pallet.
- Conveyor systems: according to the product text, the closed runners of the TIDUS Heavy 1208 3R make it particularly suitable for automated conveyor systems.
- Stretch film: the product text of the TIDUS medium 1208 3R describes it as suitable for use with stretch film.
On the other hand: when empty, pallets with runners take up their full height in the store, and in our examples they weigh considerably more than the nestable models.
Which design for which application?
Shipping with many empty pallets in the warehouse
If pallets regularly leave with the goods or wait a long time for their next use, the space they take up when empty matters. Nestable models are a good fit here, such as the lightweight plastic pallet, nestable, 1200x1000x150 mm, TIDUS Light 1210 or the plastic pallets light 1200x800x140 mm, 9 feet, nestable, with anti-slip edge. For larger quantities there is the lightweight plastic pallet, Eco, 1200x800x150 mm 10 piece package.
Racking and conveyor systems in production
If the pallet stays in your own internal cycle and runs over roller conveyors or into high-bay racking, load capacity and support matter. Pallets with runners such as the plastic medium Euro pallet 1200x800x150 mm TIDUS medium 1208 3R or the TIDUS Heavy 1208 3R heavy plastic pallet, 1200x800x160 mm are then the better choice. Plan for the larger space they need when empty.
Frequently asked questions
Exactly how much space does a nestable pallet save?
That depends on the nesting height, which the product data does not state. We therefore do not give blanket percentages. Using the calculation above and the measured nesting height, you will get a reliable result for your warehouse.
Can I put nestable pallets into racking?
The product data gives no racking value for the nestable models mentioned here. So please clarify racking use with us before ordering.
Why are pallets with runners heavier?
Runners connect the feet into continuous supports, which puts more material into the pallet. In our examples, the pallets with runners weigh 12.5 kg and 16.5 kg, the nestable models between 4.5 kg and 6.5 kg.
How to make the decision
- Count how many pallets stand empty in the warehouse at the same time.
- Check your loads: static, dynamic and in racking.
- Clarify whether the pallets run over conveyor systems.
- Work out the space needed using pallet height and nesting height.
You will find all models and their data under plastic pallets. We are happy to advise you: +49 2237 628095-00, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.