Comparisons
Cardboard or plastic edge protectors?
Two materials that protect the pallet edge; one enters the paper stream.
An edge protector takes the pressure of strapping and stretch film instead of the parcel corner, and carries vertical load on the pallet. Cardboard edge protectors do this in paper, with a multi-layer kraft structure, and go in the paper waste after use; plastic edge protectors are more moisture-resistant but must be separated as plastic waste.
Side by side
| Criterion | Cardboard edge protector | Plastic edge protector |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Multi-layer kraft | Plastic profile |
| Load bearing | Carries vertical load; thickness and length according to load | Carries vertical load |
| Strapping protection | Transfers pressure to the edge protector | Transfers pressure to the edge protector |
| Custom size | Thickness, width and length set in production | Depends on the mould |
| After use | With paper waste | Plastic waste |
| Moisture | Needs moisture control | Moisture-resistant |
Application
Fit edge protectors to the four vertical edges and place paper honeycomb panels between layers; then apply stretch film and strapping. The sequence and details are in the pallet protection guide.
When to choose plastic
For pallets waiting outdoors in the rain, a plastic profile can be advantageous; for indoor warehouses and container shipments, cardboard edge protectors are the common choice.
Frequently asked questions
Cardboard vs plastic edge protectors
01Are cardboard edge protectors used on export pallets?
Yes; they are common in container and closed-vehicle shipments.
02Can they be reused?
If undamaged, they can be reused in internal logistics.
03What is the lead time for custom sizes?
It varies with the size; it is confirmed with the quote.