Slip sheets are thin, flat sheets typically made from plastic, fibreboard, or sometimes corrugated cardboard. They are used as a base platform to support unit loads during storage, handling, and transportation—serving a similar purpose to wooden or plastic pallets but with some key differences.
Key Features
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Material: Common materials include high-density polyethylene (HDPE), recycled plastic, corrugated fiberboard, and kraft linerboard.
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Structure: Generally, slip sheets have one or more protruding tabs (also called lips) that extend beyond the load and are used for gripping with specialized handling equipment.
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Design: Lightweight and flat, usually 3–6 mm thick, depending on the load requirement.
Advantages of Slip Sheets
1. Cost-Effective
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Lower upfront cost than wood or plastic pallets.
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No need for pallet repair or maintenance.
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Significantly reduces packaging and shipping costs, especially for high-volume shipments.
2. Space-Saving
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Much thinner and lighter than pallets.
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Allows for more product volume per truck/container.
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Reduces storage space requirements in warehouses.
Environmental Benefits
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Often recyclable and can be made from recycled materials.
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Reduces deforestation associated with wooden pallets.
Ideal for Export
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ISPM 15 compliant (especially fibreboard and plastic versions), avoiding the need for heat treatment or fumigation required for wood pallets.
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Avoids pest infestation issues and meets international shipping regulations.
Cleaner & Safer
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No splinters, nails, or sharp edges.
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Hygienic—especially important in food and pharmaceutical industries.
Limitations and Requirements
Special Equipment Needed:
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Requires push-pull attachments on forklifts (instead of standard forks).
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Not compatible with all types of warehouse equipment or automation setups.
Less Durable:
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Not suitable for all load types, especially extremely heavy or unevenly distributed loads.
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More susceptible to damage from moisture or rough handling (especially paper-based sheets).
Common Applications
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Export logistics where returnable pallets are not cost-effective.
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Retail distribution centers aiming to reduce pallet-related costs.
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Industries with strict hygiene requirements like food, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.
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Air freight and containerized shipping, where weight and space savings are crucial.