EPAL took a significant step in pallet digitalization with the introduction of the Europallet QR on January 1, 2024. This innovation involves embedding a unique QR code on the two right corner blocks of the pallet, allowing for the identification of each individual element within the logistics chain. This pallet is available for order from selected EPAL Europallet manufacturers and can be used and exchanged within EPAL's open Europallet pool.
Thanks to the QR code, pallet users can link the code to the goods loaded on the pallet via their computer systems or through software developed by EPAL, maintaining complete transparency of its location through tracking. Additionally, the new Europallet QR enables simple, quick, and specific acquisition of pallets' positions in stock and data evaluation on quantity and quality.
This ensures that EPAL Europallets are always available in the correct amount and required quality. These new pallets can be freely exchanged within the EPAL open Europallet exchange pool. Europallet QRs will be available in the same manner as those without QR codes and will be part of the established processes for sorting used EPAL Europallets.
Apart from using the QR code on EPAL Europallets to retrieve information about the pallet's location, load, and goods, this technology can also provide details about the pallet itself. Beyond data on pallet production, which enhances security against counterfeiting, there is information about the material, recycling, exchange, and reuse. EPAL has developed the QR code as a digital passport for products, effectively transforming the pallet into a carrier of information as well as goods.