Logistics: EPAL interchange and shadow areas (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• EPAL exchange regulations INCREASE exchanges and returns.
• The second-hand market presents critical issues in terms of traceability.
• Difficulty in reconstructing the origin of pallets sold to third parties.
• Shadow areas remain on cash and document purchases.

Key facts

• What: EPAL interchange REGULATIONS
• Where: Industrial areas and logistics nodes
• Who: Conlegno Packaging
• Problem: Lack of traceability in the used
• Historical data: 30% irregular management market (2013)

The new legislation governing the exchange of pallets is producing the first concrete results, favouring an increase in exchanges, a reduction in rejects and a greater return of EPAL PALLETS in the official circuit. Despite these advances in putting order in the system, operators report persistent criticalities that specifically concern the second-hand market. This segment develops through a network of small warehouses and "buy pallets" activities often located in industrial areas or along the main logistics routes. It is precisely in this area that a significant shadow area manifests itself: the difficulty of reconstructing with certainty the origin of used pallets. Although the new law effectively intervenes on the interchange, regulating the relationship between who delivers the goods and who is required to return the pallets, a fundamental step in the chain remains uncovered. It is

Operational details

The second-hand market is characterised by continuous movement. A single pallet can transit through dozens of warehouses, trucks and logistics platforms during its lifecycle. This dynamic nature makes it extremely delicate to reconstruct the history of the asset. When a pallet leaves the standard circuit and is sold, bought, repaired or put back on the market, the fundamental question arises as to its origin: where do the pallets come from? Who sells them? And what checks are necessary for those who buy them? The question of illicit origin has been the subject, over time, of investigations, seizures and targeted interventions by the authorities. The main challenge is not so much to quantify the number of pallets stolen daily, but to understand the permeability of the used market to the entry of material whose origin is not verifiable.

Competition and regulatory obligations

There is also a marked distinction between the operators in the sector. A company that deals with the storage, selection, repair or transformation of pallets must bear significant operating costs. Depending on the size and activity carried out, these companies are required to comply with strict requirements regarding occupational safety, fire prevention, environmental protection, water management, waste disposal and contractual regularity of employees. However, not all of these obligations automatically apply to anyone

Recommended tools

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Key points

Traceability represents the core issue of the entire matter. When a company proceeds to purchase large volumes of used pallets, the problem arises of how to correctly document the acquisition and origin of the material. The lack of a transparent supply chain makes it difficult for serious companies to operate in a healthy market. For those working in the logistics sector or warehouse management, verifying document compliance is a step that cannot be overlooked. It is essential that every operator carefully evaluates transport documentation and material origin, especially when dealing with large quantities crossing borders or logistics areas. The distinction between an accredited operator and one operating outside official circuits is often visible in the ability to provide documented traceability that guarantees the regularity of transactions.

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