Pallet shortages usually happen when demand spikes meet weak forecasting. Seasonal planning helps teams avoid high-cost rush orders.
Forecast by Shipment Pattern
Use last-year shipment data by week and customer. Blend history with confirmed promotions or seasonal contracts.
Set Safety Stock by Site
Not every location needs the same buffer. High-velocity sites should hold more reserve inventory than slower facilities.
Lock Supplier Capacity Early
Reserve volumes with your pallet partner before peak season starts. Capacity commitments reduce spot-market exposure.
Plan Recovery During Peak
Inbound returns drop during busy periods. Add temporary collection strategies so loss rates do not spike.
Operations that treat pallets like planned inventory, not incidental supplies, usually move through peak with fewer disruptions.