Pallet netfor construction materials: how to prevent damage

Construction materials present unique challenges in packaging and transport. They are dense, often irregularly shaped, and frequently have sharp edges. Bricks, tiles, concrete blocks, bags of dry mix, and lumber all require reliable pallet stabilization. Conventional stretch film is not always the optimal solution: it restricts ventilation, increases the risk of condensation, and is easily cut by sharp corners.

Pallet net is a proven alternative. It can be applied on standard pallet wrapping machines or manually. Thanks to its mesh structure, it ensures ventilation, distributes tension more evenly, and provides a more secure load unit. For construction materials, these properties are particularly relevant.

Main risks of damage in transporting construction materials

Mechanical damage
Sharp edges of bricks, tiles, or blocks can easily cut through stretch film, causing pallet destabilization, loss of goods, and costly waste.

Load shifting during braking and cornering
According to EN 12195-1 (calculation of securing forces; 0.8 g forward, 0.5 g sideways and backward), packaging must withstand significant dynamic forces. If the wrapping lacks rigidity, stacked materials may “breathe” and shift, increasing the risk of collapse.

Condensation under film
Temperature fluctuations can cause cement or gypsum bags to absorb moisture, even when “protected” by sealed stretch film.

Unpredictable storage conditions
At warehouses or depots, pallets are often stored under semi-open shelters. Closed film accelerates degradation of the packaging when exposed to humidity.

Advantages of pallet wrap netting

  • Ventilation — reduces condensation and mold risk; critical for cement, gypsum, and wood.
  • Tear resistance — better distributes force around sharp edges, does not split into strips like stretch film.
  • Material savings — 30–50 % lower consumption compared with conventional stretch film.
  • Temperature resistance — does not stick or soften in warm storage conditions.
  • Compatibility — works with standard pallet wrapping machines and for manual application.

Data and standards

  • Industry statistics show that switching to pallet wrap netting can reduce material damage by up to 40% compared to stretch film (packaging equipment manufacturers data).
  • The European standard EUMOS 40509 (dynamic stability test of load units; deformation ≤ 5%) sets requirements for cargo stability. Netting helps meet these criteria by distributing tension evenly.
  • Studies indicate that up to 0.14% of company turnover is lost due to transport damage, with up to 90% of that caused by load damage. Reducing these losses has a direct positive impact on profitability.

Practical recommendations

  • Use pallet wrap netting for abrasive and moisture-sensitive materials (bricks, blocks, gypsum, lumber).
  • For outdoor storage, combine netting with a waterproof hood or tarp.
  • Place anti-slip mats under pallets in line with VDI 2700 (German best-practice guideline for load securing).
  • Adjust pallet wrapper settings: net tension must match the weight and type of cargo.
  • Validate load stability in accordance with EUMOS 40509 to ensure compliance with transport safety requirements.

Conclusion

Pallet net is a modern and cost-efficient packaging solution for construction materials. It prevents mechanical damage and moisture issues, improves pallet stability, and reduces logistics losses. For manufacturers and logistics providers, adopting netting means not only safer and higher-quality deliveries, but also measurable cost savings.