PRIMARY CONCEPT 6.1: Stack and secure pallet loads that can withstand the entire handling chain
Critical Guidelines
6.1.1 Strictly follow palletisation instructions.
- Use only pallets that meet the standards prescribed and designed according to the specific cartons.
- Ensure all prescribed securing strips/sheets are inserted.
6.1.1 Supporting Documents
6.1.2 Pallets must be marked in accordance with ISPM 15 requirements.
- Mark must be clearly visible (burned into corner pieces and not stamped)
6.1.3 Pallet heights must not exceed the following limits
- Conventional shipping standard pallet: 2.10m
- High cube container pallets: 2.4m
- Pallet loads that exceed the height limits are prone to damage and also restrict airflow to the extent that quality may be seriously affected.
6.1.4 Ensure that white pallet straps are used to adhere to recycling policies.
PRIMARY CONCEPT 6.2: Identify the content of the pallet according to the prescribed standards
Critical Guidelines
6.2.1 Complete pallet as soon as possible to minimise exposure to ambient temperatures but not longer than 3 hours after palletisation has started.
- It is important for traceability purposes.
- Make sure about marking requirements from DALRRD, PPECB and Exporters.
6.2.1 Supporting Documents
- Contact – PPCEB
- The NDA documents are currently not accessible from a computer. Please use a cell phone to access the site.
- Go to NDA.gov.za
- Select ‘Core business’ from the drop-down menu
- Select ‘Food Safety and Quality Assurance’
- Select ‘Marking Requirements’ and/or ‘Export regulations and standards’ and then ‘Deciduous Fruit’
PRIMARY CONCEPT 6.3: Complete pallet load as soon as possible and put into cold storage
Critical Guidelines
6.3.1 Apply appropriate carton and pallet information stamps and stickers.
- Pallets awaiting inspection should be kept under cooling.