Short history of the pallet
In the first post-Industrial Revolution period, massive industrialization brought profound changes in production and logistics processes. Such high production had led to the need to transport large volumes of goods, therefore leading to the demand of more efficient solutions for handling and storage.
The initial attempts to provide an answer to this need were simple wooden platforms with a grid structure, designed to facilitate the lifting and transportation of goods using cranes, forklifts, or similar equipment. These early experiments were often carried out in an artisanal way and were limited to specific contexts.
With the outbreak of World War II, the demand of the U.S. military arose to move the complex war logistics machine. This resulted in enormous quantities of supplies, provisions, and ammunition that needed to be moved. The necessity to have a standardized and efficient system for loading and unloading led to the birth of military pallets known as “skid pallets,” which significantly simplified logistics operations on the battlefield.
After the war, the use of pallets also spread to civilian industry. The standardization introduced by the military made it easier to use pallets into supply chains and industrial warehouses, bringing significant benefits in terms of handling time and costs.
Over the years, various materials were introduced for pallets. In addition to wood, there are pallets made of varied materials such as recyclable plastic or metal. Furthermore, the pallet was originally designed to be lifted from two sides only, then the design evolved to allow lifting from all four sides. In the European context, the most significant improvement was the introduction of the Euro Pallet, a standard that enhanced efficiency in storage and transport.
What are Garments on Hangers (GOH) containers?
Structure and Design of GOH
Containers GOH containers are designed with a particular focus on protecting garments during transportation and storage. The basic structure of a GOH container includes:
Hanging Bars: These horizontal bars are the centrepiece of the GOH container design. They are designed to support the hanging garments, just as you would find in a closet. The bars are solid and sturdy to prevent them from bending or deforming under the weight of the clothes.
Breathable Materials: Many variations of GOH containers are made with breathable materials such as non-woven fabric or perforated plastic. This allows air circulation inside the container, preventing damage from moisture or mold and keeping the garments fresh.
Zippers or Fastenings: To facilitate opening and closing of the container, zippers or quick fastenings are often included. These allow quick access to the garments without having to remove the entire contents.
Labelling: Containers can be labelled to indicate the content, size, brand, or other useful information. This simplifies the organization and identification of the clothing inside the container.
Importance of GOH Containers in the Fashion Industry
Preserving Garment Quality: Many garments are made from delicate fabrics, intricate details, or decorations. GOH containers prevent unwanted wrinkles, tears, or damage caused by contact with other clothing or objects during transportation. This is particularly crucial for high-quality or evening wear.
Logistic Efficiency: Clothing is often transported over long distances before reaching stores or customers. The use of GOH containers streamlines the loading and unloading process, reducing the time needed to prepare merchandise for sale. It also reduces the risk of loss or damage during transportation.
Store Display: When clothing arrives in stores, they are already ready to be displayed on hangers. This quick and wrinkle-free display process enhances store efficiency and provides customers with a more pleasant shopping experience.
Reducing Waste: Garment damage during transportation can lead to returns, unsold stock, or waste. GOH containers significantly reduce the risk of such losses, as garments remain in optimal condition until they are ready for sale.
Improved Presentation: When customers see clothes displayed without wrinkles or deformities, they are more likely to be attracted to purchase them. This is particularly important in retail sales, where attractive presentation can influence purchasing decisions.
In conclusion, Garments on Hangers containers are a key component in the fashion industry, playing a crucial role in keeping clothes in excellent condition, simplifying logistics, and enhancing the customer experience. Their design aims to ensure that garments are ready to be worn or sold without the need for ironing or removing unwanted wrinkles, minimizing waste and damage.
