The future of logistics management: EPAL EURO PALLET QR and direct printing with APLINK

The introduction of the EURO PALET EPAL QR combined with direct inkjet printing technology is revolutionizing the management of pallets and goods and improving efficiency throughout the logistics process.

What is the EPAL EURO PALLET QR?

EPAL pallets have always been a symbol of quality and safety in the logistics industry. With the integration of the QR code on Euro pallets, EPAL takes these benefits to a higher level, allowing to identify the location of the pallet along the entire Supply Chain.

Each EPAL Euro Pallet QR contains a unique serial number that can be scanned manually or automatically, facilitating transparent logistics processes and optimized stock management.

Its easy integration with digital logistics, thanks to digital pallet exchange, eliminates the need for pallet labels and prevents errors in data transfer to IT systems.

The key advantages of the EPAL EURO PALLET QR are:

• Unique identification: Improves internal control, allowing retrieval of data such as storage, rotation, usage, processing and location times.
• Full traceability: Smart pallets enable full traceability, contributing to environmental protection.
• Total transparency: Facilitates the exchange of information between companies, improving logistics coordination and ensuring the availability of the required number of pallets in the right place at the right time.
• IT integration:  Links pallets and goods to IT systems, reducing search costs.
• Flexible interchangeability: Pallets with QR can be interchanged without limitations within EPAL’s open pool, maximizing flexibility.
• No need for labels: The code is printed directly on the pallet, saving time, reducing printing costs and waste.

“The EPAL EURO PALLET is not only a load carrier, but also an information carrier.”

Where to mark the EPAL EURO PALLET QR?

The EPAL QR code must be printed on the right corner block of the pallet, together with the 9-digit alphanumeric serial number in plain text. In addition, each pallet should be marked with:

• Left Corner Block: The «EPAL in oval» logo.
• Center Block:  The rectangle with IPPC wheat herringbone, country code, pallet manufacturer’s IPPC number, HT (Heat Treatment), EPAL identification number with pallet producer’s license number and production date (year, month), etc.

How to mark the EPAL QR Code and other requirements on the pallet?

Direct printing on wooden pallets is done with advanced inkjet systems, such as the  APLINK Series. High-Resolution printers. These printers can print messages up to 72 mm high with high contrast, at resolutions up to 360 x 1440 dpi and at speeds up to 250 m/min.

The readability of QR codes and environmentally friendly inks are important aspects to consider, as the QR code is expected to remain readable for several years and the ink used is expected to be environmentally friendly and safe to use with the transported goods. To control this, only EPAL approved printing equipment and inks may be used.

“The European Pallet Association (EPAL) certifies and approves us as a worldwide pallet coding supplier.”

Benefits of Direct Inkjet Coding on pallet blocks

✅ Flexibility: No need to stop the line to change the format, complying with regulations without interruptions.

✅ High speed and precision: Prints with a head protected against dirt and hostile environments on wooden blocks.

✅ Time and cost savings: Direct coding reduces ink consumption and electronic costs compared to other methods.

✅ Uniformity in marking: AHigh resistance to shocks and vibrations on the line, ensuring durability of the printed message.

✅ Improved working environment: No fumes and pollution are generated during the marking of the pallet blocks.

✅ Low maintenance: Only occasional purging and annual filter changes are required to maintain print quality.

The adoption of direct inkjet printing not only improves accuracy and efficiency in pallet identification, but also reduces operating costs and improves working conditions.