A
Comprehensive Guide to Stillages: Types, Uses, Benefits and UK Industries
Stillages also
known as metal
pallet cages, storage cages, stackable frames, warehouse cages
and material handling containers play a crucial role in storage, handling and
logistics. Designed to store, transport and protect goods efficiently, stillages
offer an essential solution for businesses seeking enhanced operational
efficiency. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of stillages,
their uses, benefits and the key UK industries that rely on them.
What is a Stillage?
A stillage is a
specialised storage and transport unit, often made of metal, used to hold goods
securely during handling and transit. Unlike standard pallets, stillages
provide additional support, structure and sometimes security features to
prevent damage and improve stacking efficiency.
Types of Stillages
There are several types of stillages, each designed to cater
to specific industrial needs:
These cage stillages have 2, 3 and
4 solid metal sides to keep items contained securely. They are widely used in
the retail and logistics industries to transport bulk goods efficiently.
A mesh stillage is a type of
stillage that features metal mesh sides, providing a secure yet visible and
ventilated storage solution. These are particularly useful in industries where
easy identification of stored goods is essential.
Post stillages feature
removable or fixed posts that support stacking and provide open access to the
stored materials. These are ideal for industries dealing with long, heavy, or
irregularly shaped goods, such as metal bars or timber.
A hybrid between pallets and stillages, pallet stillages
offer increased structural support, making them ideal for heavy-duty
applications. They are often used in warehousing and manufacturing
environments.
Designed for space efficiency, folding stillages can be
collapsed when not in use, making them perfect for businesses with fluctuating
storage requirements. These are commonly used in the automotive and logistics
sectors.
Custom Stillages
Some businesses require bespoke
stillages tailored to their specific products. Custom stillages ensure maximum
protection and efficiency, particularly for fragile or high-value goods.
Uses of Stillages
Stillages are versatile and serve various purposes across
different industries, including:
Storage: Providing a stable and organised solution
for raw materials, finished goods, and components.
Transport: Safeguarding goods during transit to
minimise damage.
Stacking: Allowing for better space utilisation by
enabling vertical storage.
Security: Protecting
valuable or fragile items with reinforced designs.
Benefits
of Using Stillages
Implementing stillages in a business setting comes with
numerous advantages:
Enhanced Durability: Typically made from robust
steel, stillages offer superior strength and longevity compared to traditional
pallets.
Improved Safety: They help reduce workplace accidents
by keeping materials securely contained.
Better Space Utilisation: Stackable and sometimes
collapsible, stillages help maximise storage space.
Cost Efficiency: Their reusability and durability
lower long-term costs.
Customisation Options:
Many manufacturers offer bespoke designs tailored to specific needs.
Key UK
Industries That Use Stillages
Several UK industries rely on stillages to improve their
operations:
Manufacturing
Manufacturing plants use stillages to transport raw
materials and finished products safely and efficiently.
Automotive
Stillages play a critical role in the automotive industry,
helping to store and transport vehicle parts, engines, and components without
risk of damage.
Logistics & Warehousing
In warehousing and distribution, stillages streamline
storage and improve supply chain efficiency by offering better organisation and
stacking solutions.
Construction
The construction sector uses stillages to transport heavy
materials like bricks, pipes, and scaffolding components.
Agriculture
Agricultural businesses utilise stillages to handle bulk
produce, tools, and equipment, ensuring safe and efficient storage.
Conclusion
Stillages are a vital asset for numerous industries in the
UK offering enhanced safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness in material
handling. Whether you need cage stillages for secure transport, pallet
stillages for heavy-duty storage or a custom solution tailored to your
business, investing in the right stillage can significantly improve operations.
For businesses looking to enhance their logistics and
storage capabilities, stillages are a reliable and long-term solution that
ensures efficiency and safety across various industrial applications.
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/VzVyhmc3pwE