PalletFORCE, the UK’s fastest growing palletised distribution network, has invested in an advanced check-weighing system at its Lichfield hub that promises increased accuracy and safety for pallet loading. 

Accurate weighing is vital to ensure the safe placement of pallets aboard the double-deck trailers commonly used by PalletFORCE’s members, as poor distribution can leave trailers prone to rollovers. Where previously forklift drivers had to use an educated guess as to the weight of a pallet, the new system allows them to place pallets based on factual information.

The system is supplied by Avery Weigh-Tronix, the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier of weighing equipment and solutions. Avery was chosen after extensive trials confirmed the effectiveness of its technology.

A key requirement is durability, as the check-weighers must be able to withstand the arduous environment at the hub. Although PalletFORCE trialled a number of systems, Avery’s was the only one robust enough to maintain efficiency ten months after being installed.

Similarly, with 5,500 pallets coming through the hub nightly, speed is paramount important as accuracy. The Avery system is capable of delivering accurate weight information within seconds, meaning that vehicle turnaround is not compromised by the weighing process.

Each forklift truck is fitted with an intelligent indicator and thermal printer, linked to the scales. The indicator delivers a wealth of operational data to PalletFORCE that can be used to measure efficiency, whilst the ability to
provide a print-out configured to PalletFORCE’s requirements, including the weight and location of all pallets aboard the trailer, will help to simplify roadside checks.

“Having a reliable guide to the weight of each pallet is a huge benefit to our hub operation in terms of safety and efficiency,” comments Carl Worgan, Operations Director at PalletFORCE. “The Avery system has proved itself under demanding conditions, and we have been impressed with the support and advice received from the company.”

The installation of the weighers is the first stage in an improvement process at the PalletFORCE hub, involving investment in state-of-the-art technology.

Special thanks to Lichfield International for providing the vehilce for the photographs.