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How to Reduce Load Damage with Edge Protectors

Protect your shipments from damage with pallet edge and corner protectors. Learn how these cost-effective tools improve load stability and reduce product loss. Eco Packaging Experts explains all.

Every year, businesses lose thousands of dollars due to shipping-related product damage. One of the most common—and preventable—causes is edge and corner damage during pallet transport. Whether it's dented boxes, crushed cartons, or compromised product integrity, load damage not only affects your bottom line but also your brand reputation.

The good news? A simple and cost-effective solution exists: pallet edge protectors and corner pallet protectors. In this blog post, we’ll explore how these small yet powerful tools can significantly reduce load damage, improve packaging integrity, and contribute to a more efficient and professional logistics process.

What Are Edge and Corner Pallet Protectors?

Pallet edge protectors (also called angle boards or edge guards) are durable strips of cardboard, plastic, or composite material placed along the edges of palletized loads. Similarly, corner pallet protectors are specially designed to safeguard vulnerable pallet corners during storage, handling, and transportation.

These protectors are used across a variety of industries, including food and beverage, construction, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce—anywhere products are shipped on pallets.

Why Load Damage Happens

Before we explore how edge protectors help, it’s important to understand why palletized loads get damaged:

  • Strapping or shrink-wrap pressure can crush or deform package edges.
  • Forklift handling often places stress on pallet corners.
  • Stacking weight can compress boxes from above, especially without structural reinforcement.
  • Inadequate load stability during transit leads to shifting and tipping.

Without edge protection, even the strongest packaging materials can fail under these conditions.

How Pallet Edge Protectors Reduce Load Damage

1. Distribute Pressure Evenly

When applying stretch film or strapping, pressure tends to concentrate on the edges of the load. Pallet edge protectors distribute this pressure across a larger surface area, preventing crushing or deformation of the outer boxes.

2. Improve Load Stability

Edge protectors provide rigidity and help maintain the shape of a stacked pallet, reducing the risk of shifting during transport or storage. This is especially useful when stacking multiple pallets or storing goods long-term.

3. Reinforce Corners

Corners are especially vulnerable during handling. Corner pallet protectors act as a buffer, absorbing impacts from forklift tines or other pallets.

4. Prevent Strap Cutting and Damage

Plastic or steel strapping can dig into cartons and cause surface damage or even internal product loss. Edge protectors serve as a barrier between the strap and the packaging.

5. Enhance Professional Appearance

A securely protected load with clean edges and corners not only prevents damage but also gives customers and stakeholders a strong impression of your professionalism and care.

Additional Benefits of Using Edge Protectors

  • Cost-effective solution: Reduces damage claims and returns.
  • Environmentally friendly options: Recyclable cardboard edge boards are available.
  • Customizable: Available in various lengths, thicknesses, and materials to suit different applications.
  • Improved pallet utilization: More stable loads allow for better stacking and space optimization in warehouses and transport vehicles.

Best Practices for Using Pallet Edge Protectors

  • Use the right size and material for your load type—heavier loads may require thicker or reinforced protectors.
  • Combine with stretch film or strapping for maximum security.
  • Apply to all exposed edges and corners, especially where impact risk is highest.
  • Train staff to install edge protectors correctly to ensure consistent results.

Final Thoughts

Reducing load damage is essential for any business involved in shipping or warehousing. Corner pallet protectors and pallet edge protectors are among the most effective tools available to achieve this goal. They’re affordable, easy to implement, and highly effective at preserving product quality from warehouse to delivery.

At Eco Packaging Experts, we offer a wide range of sustainable and heavy-duty edge protection solutions tailored to your business needs. Let us help you improve your packaging strategy—while saving money on damage claims and improving customer satisfaction.

Protect your pallets, protect your profits. Explore our selection of edge and corner protectors at Eco Packaging Experts and upgrade your packaging performance today.