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Australian Standard

Flat pallets for materials handling

AS 4068—1993
 This Australian Standard was prepared by Committee PK/3, Pallets. It was approved
on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 12 August 1992 and published on
15 February 1993.

The following interests are represented on Committee PK/3:

Australian Associated Brewers
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Australian Chamber of Shipping
Australian Institute of Packaging
Australian National Maritime Association
Australian Road Transport Federation
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CSIRO, Division of Building, Construction & Engineering

Department of Defence
International Cargo Handling Co-ordination Association
Metal Trades Industry Association of Australia
New South Wales Timber Advisory Council
Railways of Australia Committee
Retailers Council of Australia
Telecom Australia
The Plastics Industry Association

Review of Australian Standards. To keep abreast of progress in industry, Australian Standards are subject
to periodic review and are kept up to date by the issue of amendments or new edit ions as necessary. It is
important therefore that Standards users ensure that they are in possession of the latest editi on, and any
amendments thereto.
Full details of all Australi an Standards and related publi cati ons wil l be found in the Standards Australia
Catalogue of Publications; this information is supplemented each month by the magazine ‘The Australian
Standard’, which subscribing members receive, and which gives detail s of new publi cati ons, new edit ions
and amendments, and of withdrawn Standards.
Suggesti ons for improvements to Australi an Standards, addressed to the head off ice of Standards Australia,
are welcomed. Notif ication of any inaccuracy or ambiguit y found in an Australi an Standard should be made
without delay in order that the matter may be investigated and appropriate action taken.

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 89207.

 AS 4068—1993

Australian Standard
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Flat pallets for materials handling

First publi shed in part as AS E41—1965.

Second editi on 1966.
AS 1899 fi rst published 1976.
AS E41—1966 revised and redesignated
AS 2068—1977.
AS 1899—1976 and AS 2068—1977 revised,
amalgamated and redesignated AS 4068—1993.

Incorporating:
Amdt 1—1994

PUBLISHED BY STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

(STANDARDS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA)
1 THE CRESCENT, HOMEBUSH, NSW 2140
ISBN 0 7262 7765 7
 AS 4068—1993 2

PREFACE

This Standard was prepared by the Standards Australia Committee on Pallets under the supervision
of the Multitechnics Standards Policy Board to supersede AS 1899—1976, Flat pallets for materials
handling (1100 mm × 1100 mm suitable for use in ISO Series 1 freight containers) and
AS 2068—1977, Flat pallets for materials handling (1165 mm × 1165 mm general purpose, not
intended for use in ISO Series 1 freight containers).
The general-purpose Australian pallet, nominally 1165 mm × 1165 mm, continues to be based on the
46 inch × 46 inch pallet, introduced into Australian industry in 1946 and subsequently specified in
AS E41—1965. The introduction of the metric system and the ISO Series 1 freight containers
necessitated the issue of new Australian Standards, AS 1899—1976 and AS 2068—1977. Basically
the two standard pallets were intended to ultimately be the same in all respects, other than in their
overall dimensions.
In preparing this edition, the Committee were of the opinion that the similarity of the two standard
pallets was such that the requirements for them should now be published in one Australian Standard
embracing:
(a) 1165 mm × 1165 mm general purpose flat pallets for materials handling, not intended for use in
ISO Series 1 freight containers.
(b) 1100 mm × 1100 mm flat pallets for materials handling for use in ISO Series 1 freight containers.
Although timber is the material most commonly used for pallets, this Standard has been drafted on
a performance basis to allow for the use of other materials of construction, e.g. metals, plastics and
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composites.
Cognizance was taken of the International Standard, ISO 8611, General-purpose flat pallets for
through transit of goods—Test methods in the preparation of this Standard.

 Copyri ght STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

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payment provided such programs are used exclusively in-house by the creators of the programs.
Care should be taken to ensure that material used is fr om the current editi on of the Standard and that it is updated whenever the
Standard is amended or revised. The number and date of the Standard should therefore be clearly identif ied.
The use of material in pri nt form or in computer soft ware programs to be used commercially, with or without payment, or in
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 3 AS 4068—1993

CONTENTS
Page

1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . ... .. ... .. 4

2 REFERENCED DOCUMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. ... .. ... .. 4
3 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. .. . . . ... .. 4
4 DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. ... .. ... .. 6
5 REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO PERFORMANCE TESTING . ... .. ... .. ... .. 7
6 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. ... .. ... .. 8
7 MARKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . .. .. ... .. 8

APPENDICES
A TYPICAL TWO-WAY TIMBER PALLETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 9
B METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF RESISTANCE TO STACKING . . . . 11
C METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF DEFLECTION UNDER LOAD . . . . 13
D METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF RESISTANCE TO LOCAL
DEFLECTION (POINT LOADING TEST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
E METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF DIAGONAL RIGIDITY (CORNER
DROP TEST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
F METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF RESISTANCE TO IMPACT LOAD . 20
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 AS 4068—1993 4

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard
Flat pallets for materials handling

1 SCOPE This Standard specifies dimensional and performance requirements of flat pallets for
materials handling, the pallets being of nominal sizes 1165 mm × 1165 mm and 1100 mm × 1100 mm,
and having a load capacity of 2 t during handling operations (e.g. when in slings, when on fork lifts,
and during load assembly) or where used for storage in a drive-through system of pallet racking. The
Standard applies to pallets as manufactured.
NOTES:
1 For long-term storage on pallets, lesser load capaciti es may apply, except in ‘block stacking’ storage sit uati ons.
2 Although timber is the material most commonly used for pallets, this Standard has been prepared on a perf ormance basis
to allow for the use of other materi als.
3 Appendix A provides examples of typical two-way timber pall ets that have been designed so as to enable their compli ance
with the requirements of this Standard.
2 REFERENCED DOCUMENT The following document is referred to in this Standard:
AS
2582 Complete, filled transport packages—Methods of test
2582.5 Part 5: Horizontal impact tests (inclined plane test, pendulum test)
3 DEFINITIONS For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions below apply
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3.1 Pallet—portable load-carrying platform usually having two interconnected decks spaced apart so
as to permit the entry of lifting equipment, such as fork arms or tines, and used as a base for
assembling, storing, stacking, handling or transporting goods as a single unit load.
3.2 Pallet types
3.2.1 Captive pallet—pallet designed for reuse within the confines of a single enterprise or system.
3.2.2 Disposable pallet—pallet intended to be discarded after a single shipment or a single cycle of
use.
NOTE: A disposable pallet is also known as an expendable, non-r eturnable, one-way or single-tr ip pallet.
3.2.3 Four-way pallet—pallet designed to permit the entry of tines or arms from four directions.

FOUR -WAY PALLET

3.2.4 Non-captive pallet—pallet used in unrestricted operations which extend through one or more
enterprises (private, corporate or military) and may include common carrier services and pallet
exchange pools.
3.2.5 Re-usable pallet—pallet intended for multitrip use.
3.2.6 Standard pallet—pallet complying with the requirements of this Standard.
3.2.7 Two-way pallet—pallet designed to permit the entry of tines or arms from two opposite
directions only.
3.3 Dimensions concepts
3.3.1 Depth—dimension of the side of the pallet parallel to the principal direction of entry for tines
or arms.
NOTE: This dimension is sometimes referred to as the ‘l ength of the pall et’.
3.3.2 Height—overall vertical dimension of the pallet.
3.3.3 Width—dimension of the side of the pallet transverse to the principal direction of entry of tines
or arms.

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 5 AS 4068—1993

TWO-WAY PA LLET

DE PTH, HE IGHT AN D WIDTH OF PALLET

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3.4 Components
3.4.1 Bearers—members separating the top and bottom decks of a pallet, and providing space for the
two-way entry of tines or arms.
3.4.2 Decks—top and bottom flat faces of a pallet.
3.4.3 Spacers (blocks)—blocks separating the top and bottom decks of a pallet and providing space
for the four-way entry of tines or arms.
3.4.4 Stringers—horizontal members connecting blocks or spacers and supporting the deck.

STRINGER S AND SPA CE RS

3.5 Design features

3.5.1 Bottom deck openings—holes in the bottom deck of a pallet which allow the wheels of a pallet
truck to bear onto the floor beneath the pallet.

BO TTOM-DEC K OP EN INGS

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 AS 4068—1993 6

3.5.2 Stopped chamfer—rebated angle in the structure of a pallet, in particular on the top edges of
the bottom deck boards, to facilitate the entry of the finger wheels of a pallet truck.

STOP PE D CH AMFER

3.6 Timber types

3.6.1 Dry timber (seasoned timber)—timber having a moisture content of less than 15%.
3.6.2 Green timber (unseasoned timber)—timber having a moisture content of greater than 25%.
NOTE: Timber having a moisture content of between 15% and 25% is considered to be ‘part ly-seasoned timber’ .
4 DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES
4.1 Principal dimensions and tolerances The dimensions and tolerances of a standard pallet at the
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time of manufacture shall be as follows:

(a) Plan dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 165 ± 5 mm; or
1 100 + 20, – 0 mm.
(b) Maximum total height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 mm.
(c) Minimum entry height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 mm.
(d) Deck tolerance zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 mm (see Figure 1).
(e) Maximum difference in length of diagonals . . . . . . . . . . . 25 mm.
(f) Deck parallelism tolerance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 mm.
(g) Maximum width of gap, slot or hole in top deck . . . . . . . 65 mm.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGU RE 1 DE CK TOLERA NC E ZONE

4.2 Provision for pallet trucks Openings for pallet truck wheels shall be provided and shall conform
to the dimensions shown in Figure 2. Stopped chambers may be provided.
4.3 Freedom from projections Decks shall be free from projections which could cause damage to
goods or packages.

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 7 AS 4068—1993

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGU RE 2 MINIMUM OP EN INGS IN BOTTOM DE CK OF PA LLETS

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5 REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO PERFORMANCE TESTING

5.1 Samples Three representative sample pallets shall be selected for testing in order to establish
compliance with the performance requirements of Clause 6.
NOTE: Where green ti mber pallets are to be tested, and where information is desired on their performance aft er seasoning,
a furt her three samples of such pall ets should be selected, dri ed for three months in Envir onment A (see Clause 5.3), and
then tested as for the original three samples.
5.2 Testing sequence The same sample pallets shall be used for all tests. The sequence of testing
shall be as follows:
(a) Determination of resistance to stacking (see Appendix B).
(b) Determination of deflection under load (see Appendix C).
(c) Determination of resistance to local deflection (see Appendix D).
(d) Determination of diagonal rigidity (see Appendix E).
(e) Determination of resistance to impact load (see Appendix F).
5.3 Conditioning Except where metal pallets are to be tested, a facility in which complete pallets
can be conditioned prior to testing is required.
All pallets made of materials other than metal shall be conditioned, prior to testing, at the appropriate
conditions set out in Table 1 below, subject to the following requirements:
(a) All timber pallets being tested shall be conditioned in the same environment, i.e. in either
environment A or environment B.
(b) Pallets constructed of green timber shall be tested green. (See also the Note to Clause 5.1.)
(c) Plastic pallets for testing shall be conditioned as follows:
(i) One pallet in environment C.
(ii) One pallet in environment D.
(iii) One pallet at ambient conditions.
5.4 Testing environment Where the testing laboratory cannot be maintained at the specified
conditioning temperature, and where environments A or B are applicable, tests shall commence within
one hour of the pallet being removed from the conditioning environment. Immediately after each
individual test, specimens subjected to environments C or D shall be returned to the conditioning
chamber for a minimum of one hour prior to their being subjected to further tests.

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 AS 4068—1993 8

TABLE 1
CONDITIONING ENVIRONMENTS
Designation of Temperature Relati ve humidit y Suggested time
Pall et Condit ioning
condit ioning to equili brium
material
environment
medium °C % h
Dry ti mber with A (see Note) Air 23 ±2 50 ± 5 24
metal fastenings B (see Note) Air 20 ±2 65 ± 5 24
Plasti cs C Air 40 ±2 — 24
D Air – 25 ±3 — 24
Paper- based or E (see Note) Air 25 ±5 90 ± 5 24 to 48
processed wood F (see Note) Water 20 ±5 — 5 to 24
NOTE: The equili brium moisture content created in wood-based materials by envir onments A, B, E and F wil l depend upon
init ial conditi ons, surface areas, thickness, timber species, etc. Instantaneous readings of moisture content may be obtained by
the use of a proprietary electr ical resistance meter designed for the purpose, and it should be establi shed that equili brium
moisture content has been att ained in wood-based materials before testing them.

6 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
6.1 General Pallets, as manufactured, shall comply with the requirements set out in Clauses 6.2
to 6.6 below.
6.2 Resistance to stacking When pallets are tested in accordance with Appendix B—
(a) the rate of increase in deflection of the top deck shall decrease during the holding period under
the full test loading;
(b) the mean deflection of the top deck that occurs between the full test loading and the initial datum
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loading shall not exceed 3 mm;

(c) the mean residual deflection of the top deck after the final period of 1 h under the datum loading,
relative to its height under the initial datum loading, shall not exceed 1.5 mm; and
(d) after removal of the datum loading, except for the allowable deflection specified in Item (c), there
shall be no abnormality or distortion of the members, fasteners (or welds or joins, as appropriate)
or the assembly of the pallet that would render the pallet unsafe or unsuitable for use.
6.3 Resistance to deflection under load When pallets are tested in accordance with Appendix C—
(a) the rate of increase in deflection of the bottom deck shall decrease during the holding period
under the full test loading;
(b) the mean deflection of the bottom deck that occurs between the full test loading and the initial
datum loading shall not exceed 2.5% of the clear distance between the pallet supports;
(c) the mean residual deflection of the bottom deck after the final period of 1 h under the datum
loading, relative to its height under the initial datum loading, shall not exceed 3 mm; and
(d) after removal of the datum loading, except for the allowable deflection specified in Item (c), there
shall be no abnormality or distortion of the members, fasteners (or welds or joins, as appropriate)
or the assembly of the pallet that would render the pallet unsafe or unsuitable for use.
6.4 Resistance to point loading When tested in accordance with Appendix D, the pallet shall meet
the following requirements:
(a) The maximum deflection of a deck component shall not exceed 2.5% of the least distance
between supporting bearers, stringers, blocks or spacers.
(b) Immediately after removal of the loading, the residual deflection shall not exceed 0.5% of the
least distance between supporting bearers, stringers, blocks or spacers.
(c) After removal of the loading, except for the allowable deflection specified in Item (b), there shall
be no abnormality or distortion of the members, fasteners (or welds or joins, as appropriate) or
the assembly of the pallet that would render the pallet unsafe or unsuitable for use.
6.5 Resistance to corner drop When tested in accordance with Appendix E, the change in the
marked diagonal dimension shall not exceed 25 mm.
6.6 Resistance to impact load When tested in accordance with Appendix F, deflection x shall not
exceed 15 mm and deflection y shall not exceed 3 mm.
7 MARKING The following particulars shall be marked legibly and durably on a pallet:
(a) Pallet size The pallet size shall be marked in numerals not less than 25 mm high.
(b) Treated timber Where a timber pallet has been treated against insect infestation to comply with
any regulatory requirements, the pallet shall be marked ‘TT’ above or below the size
identification.
Additionally, at the discretion of the purchaser, the pallet may be marked with the owner’s name or
mark on the opposed surfaces bounded by the depth and height of the pallet.
NOTE: Manufacturers making a statement of compli ance with this Australi an Standard on a product, packaging, or
promotional materi al related to that product are advised to ensure that such compli ance is capable of being verif ied.

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 9 AS 4068—1993

APPENDIX A
TYPICAL TWO-WAY TIMBER PALLETS
(Informative)

A1 SCOPE This Appendix provides examples of typical, two-way timber pallets that have been
designed so as to enable their compliance with the requirements of this Standard.
Figure A1 illustrates such a pallet designed for use in ISO Series l freight containers, and Figure A2
one designed for use in Australian pallet-pooling systems.
A2 MATERIALS The timber grade and the fasteners used in the manufacture of the pallet should
be such as to enable the pallet to meet the requirements of this Standard.
A3 DIMENSIONS
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(a) Top deck (b) Side view (c) Bottom deck

NOTE: Cross-secti onal dimensions of deck boards are as foll ows:

(a) Top and bottom intermediate boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 min. width × 22 min. thick.
(b) Top entr y boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 max. width × 22 min. thick.
(c) Bott om entry boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 max. width × 22 min. thick.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGU RE A1 TIMB ER PALLET FOR US E IN ISO SER IES 1 FRE IGHT CONTAINER S

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 AS 4068—1993 10

(a) Top deck (b) Side view (c) Bottom deck

NOTE: Cross-secti ons of deck boards are as follows:

Top and bottom intermediate boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 min. width × 22 min. thick.
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(a)
(b) Top and bottom entry boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 max. width × 22 min. thick.

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGU RE A2 TIMB ER PALLET FOR US E IN AU STRA LIAN PO OLING SYS TEMS

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 11 AS 4068—1993

APPENDIX B
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF RESISTANCE TO STACKING
(Normative)

B1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the ability of a pallet to withstand
simulated 5-high stacking of unit loads, as in ‘block stacking’ storage.
B2 PRINCIPLE A pallet, supported by a level surface, is subjected to a top loading. The deflection
of the top deck under the loading, and the residual deflection after removal of the loading, are
determined. The initial reference height and the final height are determined under a datum loading.
B3 APPARATUS
B3.1 A means of applying test loadings It is recommended that test loadings be applied to sample
pallets by means of a suitable press, having a pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical loading-application
system. If a press is used
(a) the loading-application system shall be capable of adjustment throughout the range 0 to 100 kN
during the test; and
(b) the press shall have a support platen or base of rigidity such that its centre does not deflect by
more than 2 mm under a loading of 100 kN.
Alternatively, the test loading may be applied by calibrated dead weights (e.g. blocks of metal or
concrete) instead of a press, provided that those dead weights used to achieve the loadings of 5 kN
(equivalent to a mass of 0.5 t) and 100 kN (equivalent to a mass of 10 t) during the test shall be
accurate to within + 0, – 4% of their nominal values. If dead weights are used, the weights shall be
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arranged in such a manner as to provide an even distribution of the loading over the surface of the
pallet.
NOTE: The use of dead weights is not recommended, both because of the potenti ally dangerous situation which would ari se
in the event of the failure of a test specimen, and because of the diff iculty in the handli ng and corr ect placement of 10 t of
dead weights.
B3.2 A means of determining the applied loading (for use with a press only) Where a press is
used to apply the loading, a means of determining the applied loading (e.g. pressure gauges, load
cells) shall be used; the accuracy of the instruments used shall be within ± 2% of their indicated
values.
B3.3 A means of linear measurement A means of taking measurements to an accuracy of ± 0.5 mm
is required.
B3.4 A pallet conditioning facility Except where metal pallets are to be tested, a conditioning
facility complying with the requirements of Clause 5.3 and Table 1 is required.
B4 SAMPLES Samples shall be as specified in Clause 5.1.
B5 TESTING SEQUENCE Tests shall be performed in the sequence specified in Clause 5.2.
B6 CONDITIONING Conditioning shall be as specified in Clause 5.3.
B7 TESTING ENVIRONMENT Requirements relating to testing environment shall be as specified
in Clause 5.4.
B8 PROCEDURE The procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Place the bottom deck of the pallet on the platen of the press or, if dead weights are used, on a
solid level surface, and support it over its whole area.
(b) Gradually apply a datum loading of 5 kN, and hold that loading for 10 min.
(c) At the end of the holding period, determine and record the height of the top deck above the
supporting face at four positions—two on each of a pair of opposed faces.
(d) Increase the applied loading to the full test value of 100 kN, and maintain that loading for the
appropriate holding period—as specified in Table B1. Note whether or not the rate of increase
in deflection of the pallet continues to decrease during the holding period.
(e) At the end of the holding period, determine and record the resultant deflections of the top deck
at the same four positions as in Step (c).
(f) Reduce the loading to the datum value (5 kN), and maintain that loading for a further 1 h.
(g) With the datum loading still applied, determine and record the residual deflections of the top
deck, at the same four positions as previously.
(h) Remove the datum loading.
(i) Examine the members, fasteners (or welds or joins, as appropriate) and assembly of the pallet for
any abnormality or distortion that would render the pallet unsafe or unsuitable for use; record the
result of this examination.

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TABLE B1
HOLDING PERIODS
Holding period
Pall et material
h
Timber wit h metal fasteners 2
Metal 2
Timber and plywood composit e 2
Plasti cs 24
Wood part icle board 24
Timber and plastic 24
Composit e containing plasti c 24
Composit e containing adhesive 24

B9 TEST REPORT The following information shall be reported:

(a) A full description of the pallets tested.
(b) A statement as to whether the rate of increase in deflection of the pallet continued to decrease
during the holding period of the full test load.
(c) The mean deflection of the top deck that occurred between the full test loading and the initial
datum loading, expressed in millimetres.
(d) The mean residual deflection of the top deck after the final period of 1 h under the datum loading
relative to its height under the initial datum loading, expressed in millimetres.
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(e) Whether, after testing, any abnormality or distortion that would render the pallet unsafe or
unsuitable for use was observed.
(f) The name and signature of the person conducting the test, and the date of testing.
(g) A reference to this test method, i.e. Appendix B of AS 4068.

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 13 AS 4068—1993

APPENDIX C
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF DEFLECTION UNDER LOAD
(Normative)

C1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the ability of a pallet to support its
working load under conditions applicable to handling operations or where used under full load in a
‘drive through’ system of storage.
C2 PRINCIPLE A pallet, supported as a beam, is subjected to a top loading. The deflection of the
bottom deck under the loading, and the residual deflection after removal of the loading, are
determined. The initial reference height and the final height are determined under a datum loading.
C3 APPARATUS
C3.1 A means of applying test loadings Test loadings shall be applied to sample pallets either by
means of a suitable press or by the use of calibrated dead weights (e.g. blocks of metal or concrete).
If a press is used, it shall have—
(a) a pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical loading-application system, which shall be capable of
adjustment throughout the range 0 to 20 kN during the test; and
(b) a support platen or base, of rigidity such that its centre does not deflect by more than 2 mm under
a 20 kN load.
If calibrated dead weights are employed—
(i) the weights shall be arranged on a load-distribution board in such a manner as to provide an even
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distribution of the loading over the surface of the board;

(ii) those dead weights used to achieve the loadings of 2 kN (equivalent to mass of 200 kg) and
20 kN (equivalent to a mass of 2.0 t) during the test shall be accurate to within + 0, – 4% of their
nominal values; and
(iii) the pallet shall rest on a solid, level surface (e.g. a flat concrete floor).
NOTE: Where dead weights are used, a forkli ft truck wil l be needed to ensure that the test loading is appli ed wit hin the time
specif ied in Paragraph C9(d).
C3.2 A means of determining the applied loading (for use with a press only) Where a press is
used to apply the loading, a means of determining the applied loading (e.g. pressure gauges, load
cells) shall be used; the accuracy of the instruments used shall be within ± 2% of their indicated
values.
C3.3 Load-distribution device (see Figure C1) The load-distribution device shall comprise a
suitably stiff board (or a pallet) which bears onto two load applicators of hollow square-section steel
members, having a cross-section 75 mm × 75 mm × 6 mm wall thickness, and a length equal to that
of the test pallet.
C3.4 Pallet supports (see Figure C1) Two steel members, identical with those described in
Paragraph C3.3, are required to support the pallet from below.
C3.5 A means of linear measurement A means of taking measurements to an accuracy of ± 0.5 mm
is required.
C3.6 A pallet conditioning facility Except where metal pallets are to be tested, a conditioning
facility complying with the requirements of Clause 5.3 and Table 1 is required.
C4 SAMPLES Samples shall be as specified in Clause 5.1.
C5 TESTING SEQUENCE Tests shall be performed in the sequence specified in Clause 5.2.
C6 CONDITIONING Conditioning shall be as specified in Clause 5.3.
C7 TESTING ENVIRONMENT Requirements relating to testing environment shall be as specified
in Clause 5.4.
C8 SET-UP
C8.1 Accuracy of set-up The apparatus shall be set up with all components except the test loading
positioned within ± 2 mm of their specified positions. Where dead weights are used, the centre of
gravity of the test loading shall be within ± 50 mm of the intersection of the centre-lines of the test
pallet.
C8.2 Set-up procedure (see Figure C1) The set-up procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Place the pallet, with the top deck uppermost, on the two steel pallet supports in such a manner
that the supports are aligned with the edges of the pallet. Where two-way pallets are being tested,
the supports shall be placed in such a manner that bending occurs about the weaker axis of the
pallet. Where four-way pallets, or pallets of which the weaker axis is not clearly discernable, are
being tested, each pallet shall be tested twice—once about each axis.

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(b) Position the two steel load applicators symmetrically about the centre-line of the pallet, such that
the centre-lines of the applicators are spaced at one-third of the width of the pallet.
(c) Position the load-distribution device on the load applicators in a symmetrical manner.
C9 TEST PROCEDURE The test procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Determine and record the clear span distance between the pallet supports (dimension B in
Figure C1).
(b) Gradually apply the test loading to the load-distribution device at a uniform rate until the datum
level of 2.0 kN is reached.
(c) On the pallet centre-line, at both the front and back edges of the pallet (dimension A in
Figure C1), determine and record the heights of the bottom surface of the pallet above the support
base.
(d) Increase the applied loading to the full test value of 20 kN within a period of not less than 1 min
and not more than 5 min, and maintain that loading for the appropriate holding period—as
specified in Table B1 of Appendix B. Where dead weights are used as a means of loading, they
shall be built up symmetrically (see also the Note to Paragraph C3.1).
(e) Note whether or not the rate of increase in deflection of the pallet continues to decrease during
the holding period.
(f) At the end of the holding period, determine and record the heights of the bottom surface, at the
same two positions as in Step (c).
(g) Reduce the loading to the datum value (2 kN), and maintain that loading for a further 1 h.
(h) With a datum loading still applied, determine and record the heights of the bottom surface, at the
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same two positions as in Step (c).

(i) Remove the datum loading.
(j) Examine the members, fasteners (or welds or joins, as appropriate) and assembly of the pallet for
any abnormality or distortion that would render the pallet unsafe or unsuitable for use; record the
result of this examination.
C10 CALCULATION The following shall be calculated:
(a) The means of each pair of heights determined in Paragraph C9, Items (c), (f) and (h).
(b) The difference between the means of the heights measured in Paragraph C9, Items (c) and (f)
(i.e. the mean deflection of the bottom deck), expressed as a percentage of the clear distance
between the pallet supports.
(c) The difference between the means of the heights measured in Paragraph C9, Items (c) and (h)
(i.e. the mean residual deflection), expressed in millimetres.
C11 TEST REPORT The following information shall be reported:
(a) A full description of the pallets tested.
(b) A statement as to whether the rate of increase in deflection of the bottom deck continued to
decrease during the holding period at the full test load.
(c) The mean deflection of the bottom deck that occurred between the full test loading and the initial
datum loading, expressed as a percentage of the clear distance between the pallet supports.
(d) The mean residual deflection of the bottom deck after the final period of 1 h under the datum
loading, relative to its height at the initial datum loading, expressed in millimetres.
(e) Whether, after testing, any abnormality or distortion that would render the pallet unsafe or
unsuitable for use was observed.
(f) The name and signature of the tester, and the date of testing.
(g) A reference to this test method, i.e. Appendix C of AS 4068.

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LEGEND:
A = distance from the bottom of the pallet to the level surf ace
B = clear span distance. (This Standard calls for the defl ecti on measured for A
above not to exceed 2.5% of this distance)

FIGU RE C1 SE T-UP OF TEST APP AR ATUS

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APPENDIX D
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF RESISTANCE
TO LOCAL DEFLECTION
(POINT-LOADING TEST)
(Normative)

D1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for the determination of the ability of pallet deck
components to resist local deflection; the test simulates the high-point loading which can be
experienced by both faces of a pallet when loaded with hard or irregularly-shaped products in a
block-stacking method of warehousing.
D2 PRINCIPLE For both decks of a pallet, the section of deck componentry that is deemed to be
likely to deflect most is subjected to a point loading, and the maximum and residual deflections are
determined.
D3 APPARATUS
D3.1 A means of applying test loadings Test loadings shall be applied to sample pallets either by
means of a suitable press or by the use of calibrated dead weights (e.g. blocks of metal or concrete).
If a press is used, it shall have a pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical load-application system, which
shall be capable of adjustment throughout the range 0 to 1 kN during the test.
If calibrated dead weights are used to achieve the loading of 1 kN (equivalent to a mass of 100 kg)—
(a) the weights shall be accurate to within +0, -4% of their nominal values; and
(b) the pallet shall rest on a solid, level surface (e.g. a flat concrete floor).
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D3.2 A means of determining the applied loading (for use with a press only) Where a press is
used to apply the loading, a means of determining the applied loading (e.g. pressure gauges, load
cells) shall be used; the accuracy of the instruments used shall be within ± 2% of their indicated
values.
D3.3 A load applicator—of cylindrical shape and having a diameter of 75 mm and a height of
75 mm to 100 mm.
D3.4 A pallet conditioning facility Except where metal pallets are to be tested, a conditioning
facility complying with the requirements of Clause 5.3 and Table 1 is required.
D4 SAMPLES Samples shall be as specified in Clause 5.1.
NOTE: Both the top and bott om decks of each sample pall et wil l be subjected to testing.
D5 TESTING SEQUENCE Tests shall be performed in the sequence specified in Clause 5.2.
D6 CONDITIONING Conditioning shall be as specified in Clause 5.3.
D7 TESTING ENVIRONMENT Requirements relating to testing environment shall be as specified
in Clause 5.4.
D8 SET-UP The load applicator shall be positioned centrally on the section of deck componentry
that is deemed to be likely to deflect most under point loading. Figure D1 illustrates the set-up for a
typical two-way pallet: the test loading is positioned at point C, which is central to the width of a deck
board and midway between points A and B, which points are immediately above the edge of a stringer
or bearer.
D9 PROCEDURE The procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Measure and record the least distance between supporting bearers, blocks, stringers or spacers
appropriate to the point immediately below the centre of the load applicator (point C in
Figure D1).
(b) Measure and record the distance between point C and the surface on which the pallet is
supported.
(c) Apply a test loading of 1 kN symmetrically to the load applicator, and maintain the loading for
5 min.
(d) At the end of the holding period, determine and record the height of the deck component at
point C.
(e) Remove the loading, and determine and record the residual height at point C.
(f) Examine the members, fasteners (or welds or joins, as appropriate) and assembly of the pallet for
any abnormality or distortion that would render the pallet unsafe or unsuitable for use; record the
result of this examination.
(g) Where the result of the examination in Step (f) is satisfactory, repeat Steps (a) to (f) on the
opposite deck of the pallet. Where the result of the examination is not satisfactory, testing may
be discontinued since the pallet has already failed to meet the requirements of this Standard.

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FIGU RE D1 SE T-UP FOR A TYP ICAL TWO-WAY TIMBER PA LLET

D10 CALCULATIONS For the tests on each side of the pallet, the heights determined in
Paragraph D9, Items (d) and (e) shall be calculated and recorded as deflections, expressed as a
percentage of the least distance between supporting bearers, blocks, stringers or spacers appropriate
to the point at which the determinations were performed.
D11 TEST REPORT The following information shall be reported:
(a) A full description of the pallets tested.
(b) For the tests on each side of each test pallet—
(i) the actual values of all measurements and determinations made, in millimetres; and
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(ii) the maximum and residual deflection of the deck component expressed as a percentage of
the least distance between supporting bearers, blocks, stringers or spacers appropriate to the
point of the determinations.
(c) Whether, after testing, any abnormality or distortion that would render the pallet unsafe or
unsuitable for use was observed.
(d) The name and signature of the tester, and the date of testing.
(e) A reference to this test method, i.e. Appendix D of AS 4068.

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APPENDIX E
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF DIAGONAL RIGIDITY
(CORNER DROP TEST)
(Normative)

E1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the diagonal rigidity of a pallet for
the purpose of indicating the ability of a pallet to resist the horizontal racking forces encountered in
normal use.
E2 PRINCIPLE A pallet is dropped in such a manner that one corner impacts upon a rigid surface.
The change in the marked diagonal dimension from the impacted corner is determined.
E3 APPARATUS
E3.1 Quick-release hook or similar device—a release device for attachment to one corner of a pallet
so that it may be suspended vertically from a chain, crane, fork-truck tine or other support.
E3.2 Horizontal impact surface—a flat, hard and rigid horizontal impact surface.
E3.3 Measuring rule—graduated in millimetres.
E3.4 Scales—for weighing the pallet to an accuracy of ± 0.5 kg.
E3.5 A pallet conditioning facility Except where metal pallets are to be tested, a conditioning
facility complying with the requirements of Clause 5.3 and Table 1 is required.
E4 SAMPLES Samples shall be as specified in Clause 5.1.
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E5 TESTING SEQUENCE Tests shall be performed in the sequence specified in Clause 5.2.
E6 CONDITIONING Conditioning shall be as specified in Clause 5.3.
E7 TESTING ENVIRONMENT Requirements relating to testing environment shall be as specified
in Clause 5.4.
E8 PROCEDURE The procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Determine the mass of the pallet to the nearest kilogram.
(b) On one flat surface of the pallet, draw a diagonal line so as to join opposite corners.
(c) Mark two points, designated A and B in Figure E1, on this diagonal. Each point shall be located
at such a distance from the nearest corner of the pallet as to avoid the effects of local deformation
of the pallet during testing. A distance of approximately 40 mm from the nearest corner is
suggested as being appropriate.
(d) Measure and record the distance between points A and B, to the nearest millimetre.
(e) Suspend the pallet above the impact surface as shown in Figure F1, such that
(i) the diagonal line on the pallet is orientated vertically; and
(ii) the lower corner of the pallet is at height h, determined in accordance to its mass as
specified in Table E1, above the impact surface.
(f) Release the pallet so that it drops onto the impact surface.
(g) Carry out four additional drops on to the same corner.
(h) Measure and record the distance between points A and B, to the nearest millimetre.

TABLE E1
DROP HEIGHTS FOR CORNER DROP TEST
Mass of pall et Drop height, h
kg mm
< 30 1 000
≤ 30 < 45 500
≤ 45 400

E9 CALCULATION The calculation shall be to subtract the final measurement of the distance
between points A and B from the original distance.

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGU RE E1 CORN ER DROP TES T

E10 TEST REPORT The following information shall be reported:

(a) A full description of the pallet tested.
(b) The change in the marked diagonal dimensions, in millimetres.
(c) The name and signature of the tester, and the date of testing.
(d) A reference to this test method, i.e. Appendix E of AS 4068.

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APPENDIX F
METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF RESISTANCE TO IMPACT LOAD
(Normative)

F1 SCOPE This Appendix sets out the method for determining the resistance of the top leading edge
of a pallet deck to an impact loading.
NOTE: The test simulates the prising of the top leading edge of the deck when fork ti nes are not correctly li ned up with the
space between the decks.
F2 PRINCIPLE A loaded pallet, mounted on a dolly on an inclined plane, is permitted to impact
on to two stops, angled in such a manner that they apply both upward and backward forces to the
leading edge of the top deck. The horizontal and vertical deflections of the top deck are determined
after three such impacts.
F3 APPARATUS The following apparatus is required:
(a) A 10° inclined plane tester—as specified in AS 2582.5, except that the package described in that
Standard shall be replaced by the test pallet, on top of which is mounted a load box (see
Figure F1(a) and Item (b)).
(b) A load box—of dimensions 600 mm × 800 mm, having a rear-mounted bracket which will prevent
it from sliding in a forward direction relative to the pallet.
The load box shall have compartments to assist in the even distribution of the test load across the
axis of movement, and in correctly biasing the load in the direction of the axis of movement (see
Item (c)).
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(c) A test load—dead weights of an appropriate size, added to the load box. The mass of the load box
plus the test load shall be 200 ± 4 kg. The load should be central to the axis of movement, but
biased towards the higher end of the box.
(d) Two impact stops—as shown in Figure F2 and mounted, preferably in an adjustable manner, on
the backstop such that the blade of each impact stop is at an angle of 6° to 8° to the horizontal
(see Figure F1(b)).
(e) Pallet conditioning facility—except where metal pallets are to be tested, a conditioning facility
complying with the requirements of Clause 5.3 and Table 1.
F4 SAMPLES Samples shall be as specified in Clause 5.1.
F5 TESTING SEQUENCE Tests shall be performed in the sequence specified in Clause 5.2.
F6 CONDITIONING Conditioning shall be as specified in Clause 5.3.
F7 TESTING ENVIRONMENT Requirements relating to the testing environment shall be as
specified in Clause 5.4.
F8 PROCEDURE The procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Place the test pallet and loaded load box on the dolly, located at the bottom of the inclined plane.
Ensure that the pallet is placed in such a manner that the front edge is 25 mm ahead of the front
edge of the dolly (see Figure F1(b)).
(b) Align the impact stops in such a manner that—
(i) the blades of the impact stops enter the fork openings of the pallet;
(ii) the centre-lines of the blades stops are located centrally in the fork openings (see
Figure F1(a)); and
(iii) the leading board of the pallet touches the top surface of each blade at a distance of between
100 mm and 250 mm from the shank face (see Figure F1(c)).
(c) Raise the dolly, with the loaded pallet, up the inclined plane until the front of the pallet is
1000 mm from the shank faces.
(d) Release the dolly.
(e) Repeat Steps (b) to (d) twice (making three impacts in all).
(f) After three impacts, determine and record the deflections x and y of the top board (see
Figure F3).
F9 TEST REPORT The test report shall contain the following information:
(a) A full description of the pallet tested.
(b) A statement of the deflections x and y, expressed in millimetres.
(c) The name and signature of the tester, and the date of testing.
(d) A reference to this test method, i.e. Appendix F of AS 4068.

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(a) Top view

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(b) Side view — position before release

(c) Side view — position at impact

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGU RE F1 INCLINED IMPAC T AP PA RA TUS

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGU RE F2 DE TAIL OF IMPA CT STOP

FIGU RE F3 TOP-BO AR D DEFLECTIONS TO BE DETER MINE D

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