- Palletizing and Package Design Software. Computer and software programs are. CubeDesigner.NET is palletization or pallet software provides package design.
- Utilize a software program from the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association. The Pallet Design System™ (PDS)., packaging, pallet, pallet design.
Within the competitive market of wooden packaging there are a few key differentiators that separate the standard business model from the unique and elite companies. One of these differences is the ability to design custom and complex pallets, crates or shipping boxes. A few years ago J.F. Rohrbaugh Co., Inc., and West Side Wood Products, Inc, decided to step up our efforts to capitalize on this niche part of the industry. The goal was to gain market share while increasing our design abilities with current and potential customers.
Pallet companies have a variety of pallet software programs such as the Pallet Design System™ (PDS) or Best Load™, to effectively design and analyze performance capabilities of standard pallets. In fact, we use PDS for most of our customer’s pallet needs since this program gives us the ability to create standard and custom pallets, integrate these designs into our ”ERP” system, and predict unit load layout with weight/storage capacities. Although PDS is a very capable and useful tool, it has limitations when designing crates and boxes. We feel there is a better solution for the crating and multifaceted pallet projects our customers bring to our sales team. For the last few years we’ve been using the 3D CAD program SOLIDWORKS® to design complex wooden packaging from concept, to production, to delivery.
The SOLIDWORKS program has given us the unique ability to work with our customers to design — from concept to delivery — a custom-built crate or pallet that fits the desired application perfectly. We often start with a new product, or an obstacle to efficiently shipping an existing product. We discuss all possibilities and ideas while brainstorming during our initial analysis meeting. Our packaging engineer then creates the model for review and modification with input regarding strength, cost, appearance, ease of use, and capabilities. Once the 3D model is approved, we create drawings with all the measurements and specifications detailed for the final approval and production of the first prototype. At this stage, we have a list of all components and specified wood species with exact dimensions. In the past, these steps were completed by hand drawing a design, and estimating the materials needed to complete production. Now our “start to finish” SOLIDWORKS design process is more efficient and precise, benefiting both our customers and our production personnel.
When it comes to pallet design, the Pallet Design System™ (PDS) was the first software program offered on the market and has become widely respected as the industry standard. PDS is owned and developed by the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) with proceeds benefitting its members.
Once our production team builds a prototype from the drawings, we field test the design and get final approval for regular full-production orders from the customer. We keep the drawings on file for reference during each repeat order. The customer can request a copy of the drawings for internal quality purposes if desired.
This design capability creates a competitive advantage in the industry with our customer base. It improves our quality controls thus decreasing costs through waste and scrap reductions.
Pds Pallet Design System
BY THOMAS HARBIN - PACKAGING ENGINEER AT J.F. ROHRBAUGH CO., INC / WEST SIDE WOOD PRODUCTS, INC
Have a bunch of boxes that need to be shipped on pallets but aren't sure how many will fit or what size shipping containers or pallets to use? This program will help you make all of those calculations.
Pallet Design System Software
Quick Pallet Maker would be easier to use for those familiar with shipping than those who are not. At first glance, the program and all of its menus and options might appear daunting to users who are unfamiliar with the world of shipping. When we opened the program, it told us what option to select to begin usage. We tried out a few of the options, entering in dimensions of boxes and let the program calculate how many would fit on different kinds of pallets. There are tools built into the program that will help users arrange pallets and their payloads for the most efficient shipping costs. In order to take full advantage of this program and all its many features, users will have to read the instructions. Happily, Quick Pallet Maker has extensive Help options. Users have the option to view the program's comprehensive Help file, download the instruction manual, view an FAQ, or visit helpful Web sites.
Quick Pallet Maker installs and uninstalls easily. This version is a 30-day trial. This program is a great tool for shippers. Seasoned shippers could probably get started right away, whereas users new to shipping will have a bit of a learning curve to overcome, but with all the help available, they can be up in running in no time with some studying.