Miljopall AS operates a pallet sorting facility designed to efficiently sort EPAL pallets into different quality grades

Miljopall AS operates a pallet sorting facility designed to efficiently sort EPAL pallets into different quality grades

Miljopall AS has implemented a pallet sorting line from Pallet Sorting Systems (PSS) to organize the sorting process as a structured and measurable process. The pallet sorting line has 5 stackers, 2 of which are capable of nesting.

Machine description

The pallet sorting line at Miljopall AS is designed to sort 3,000 pallets per day by type and quality with a staff of two (an operator and a forklift driver).

Sorting Process in Practice

Pallets to be sorted are stacked up to 18 high on the infeed and move through the sorting line in a controlled flow. At the inspection and sorting station, the pallets are individually assessed for type and quality, after which they are sorted across 5 stackers to the desired height.

• Minor repairs are performed immediately in the inspection bay.
• Pallets requiring repair are stacked in one stacker and later repaired at workbenches.

Sorting capacity

The sorting capacity depends heavily on the operator and the quality of the pallets being sorted: 400 to 550 pallets per hour, depending on pallet type, quality, and sorting criteria. The fixed workflow and central position of the operator contribute to a consistent output throughout the workday.

Benefits for the operator

The sorting line is designed to support a stable and ergonomic workflow.

• Fixed workstation with clear sorting decisions
• No more physical labor.
• No forklift traffic directly near the operator
• Continuous pallet flow without waiting times

Benefits for Miljopall AS

For Miljopall AS, the configured pallet sorting line ensures a structured and measurable sorting process.

• Stable sorting output of 400–550 pallets per hour
• 50% fewer forklift transport movements
• Lower costs per sorted pallet
• Better sorting quality with 1 operator.
• Insight into performance and output

Efficiency and monitoring

The system is equipped with SCADA reporting, providing daily insight into sorting performance. The reports include the total number of sorted pallets, the distribution by sorting class, and operational data. This enables targeted control and optimization.

Daily reporting

Daily CSV reports provide insight into production and performance.

Real-time monitoring

The sorting process can be monitored live using the PSS App.

Results at Miljopall AS

With the pallet sorting line, Miljopall AS has a stable and measurable sorting process. The combination of fixed staffing and, consequently, a controlled pallet flow with sorting efficiency results in a consistent output of 400–550 pallets per hour, depending on the pallet mix.

Savings include:

• 50% reduction in all forklift movements related to pallet sorting.
• One person now sorts between 350 and 500 pallets per hour.
• Consistent sorting because a single operator is responsible for the sorting process.

PSS’s pallet sorting lines,

PSS’s sorting lines are now in use at 150 customer sites across Europe, where they are used for sorting various types of pallets, such as Euro-size pallets and industrial-size pallets, or for de-nesting new pallets

Learn more about pallet sorting systems

See also other projects

Pallet Sorting Systems – Modular. Reliable. Efficient.