Short answer: build a tight, square stack with no overhang, add tier sheets where cartons are slick or uneven, protect the edges of tall loads, and lock the bottom of the load to the pallet with stretch wrap.
1. Build the stack right
- Keep cartons inside the pallet edges. Overhang sharply cuts stacking strength.
- Use an interlocked or column pattern based on carton size and how high pallets are double-stacked.
- Put the heaviest cartons on the bottom.
2. Add tier sheets and slip sheets
Import cartons are often printed, coated or slightly uneven. Tier sheets between layers add friction and spread weight; slip sheets under the load protect it from rough pallet boards.
3. Protect edges on tall or heavy loads
Edge protectors add vertical strength and stop film and strapping from crushing corners.
4. Wrap for the trip, not the dock
- Anchor the load: wrap the bottom tightly to the pallet before working up.
- Match film to load weight. Light, stable loads don't need heavy film.
- Track cost per pallet, not cost per roll.
5. Replace damaged cartons
Crushed or wet cartons from the container get worse in the next shipment. Keep overpack and replacement cartons on hand in your common sizes.
Need wrap, tier sheets or cartons for a busy DC? Request a quote or see stretch wrap and strapping and edge protection.