The Pallet Plug: Recent Episodes
The Pallet Plug
The purpose of this podcast is to bring attention to an industry operating in the background yet it is essential to the global supply chain. We are here to talk about the pallet industry, manufacturing, businesses that buy them, equipment and machinery for pallets, environmental impacts of the industry. We are going to try to bring on guests from every part of the industry, people just getting started to the big boys. People creating software to help make the industry more efficient, to the people building the machines to make production faster. We want to bring attention to an industry that has been around for a long time, that has a lot of really cool inspiring people in it. We want to provide opportunities for people to network and have a space where people can come and talk about the industry that has been an enigma for so long.
In this episode of The Pallet Plug Podcast, we sit down with Mike Middleton from Eagle Forest Products to dive deep into the lumber industry's intricacies and the pivotal role of pallets and wood products. With a rich background in freight broking, Mike shares his unique journey into lumber sales, shedding light on the stark contrasts between the Southern and Western markets in terms of accessibility, pricing, and delivery challenges.🌲 Key Highlights:-From Freight Broking to Lumber Sales: Mike's transition into the lumber and pallet industry.-The Localized Nature of the South Market: How delivery costs shape the market dynamics differently from the centralized West.-Competition and Market Dynamics: Insights into the fierce competition for competitive prices and high-quality wood products.-Building Trust and Relationships: The undeniable importance of honesty, appreciation, and recognition in forging lasting industry relationships.-Technology and Automation: Exploring the impact of advancements on the industry, including the potential of AI and automation to revolutionize pallet and lumber production.-The Future of the Pallet Industry: Discussing the challenges small businesses face, the influence of large companies, and the potential for industry consolidation.🔍 Takeaways for Our Audience:-Understand the differences in lumber accessibility and pricing across regions.-Discover the significance of trust, reputation, and strong work ethics in the industry.-Learn about the challenges and opportunities presented by number four lumber and wholesaler pricing influence.-Gain insights into the critical role of technology, social media, and automation in shaping the future workforce and the lumber and pallet industry.-Explore the need for information, education, and transparency in customer interactions.Whether you're part of the pallet industry, interested in wood products, or simply fascinated by the implications of technology and automation in traditional sectors, this episode offers invaluable perspectives and knowledge. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights into the ever-evolving world of lumber and beyond!
In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Luis Guerrero from AMC Pallets, a pivotal figure in the pallet world based in Phoenix, Arizona. Luis, the oldest of eight siblings and a sales manager at AMC Pallets, shares his unique journey in the family business, starting from his early days of playing hide and seek among pallets to taking on significant roles in the company.Luis discusses the evolution of AMC Pallets, from its humble beginnings to becoming a comprehensive wood business that not only deals with pallets but also offers solutions like tree boxes, recycling services, and more. He opens up about the challenges and triumphs of working in a family-operated business, including the dynamic with his father, the founder of AMC Pallets, and how they navigate their professional and personal relationship.The episode takes a turn as Luis recounts the devastating fires that impacted their business, offering insights into resilience, the importance of safety measures, and the lessons learned from overcoming such hurdles. Furthermore, Luis delves into the future of AMC Pallets, sharing his vision for growth, innovation, and how he plans to steer the company in the ever-evolving pallet industry.This conversation is not just about pallets; it's a story of family, perseverance, and the drive to keep a legacy alive. Join us as Luis Guerrero gives us a peek into the life of a pallet industry professional who's seen it all and is poised to take on the future with optimism and strategy.For more insightful discussions and stories from the pallet industry, don't forget to subscribe to The Pallet Plug Podcast. Stay tuned for more episodes that connect you with the heart of the pallet world.
In this episode of The Pallet Plug Podcast, join us as Eric Mekhanov shares his remarkable journey from Kazakhstan to the bustling streets of the US, weaving through the hurdles of a global pandemic, the gig economy, and finally carving a niche in the pallet industry.Eric delves deep into his initial days in the US, pursuing a career in law, and how the COVID-19 pandemic propelled him into the world of Uber and Amazon Flex driving. Discover how Eric's resilience led him to Texas and set him on a path of exploration—from real estate to appliance repair, and the intricate world of pallet flipping.This conversation isn't just about transitions; it's about transformations. Eric talks about the challenges of daily delivery services with VEHO, the critical support from family to kickstart his pallet business, and the essence of building meaningful industry relationships. Learn about the nuances of negotiating deals for trucks and trailers, the art of being an educated consumer, and the strategic approach to customizing trailers for pallet transport.Eric also navigates the complexities of brokering pallets, sourcing lumber, and the importance of local sawmills. He emphasizes the value of good record-keeping, the significance of a reputable CPA and tax attorney, and the potential impact millennials can have in the pallet industry.Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, this episode is a goldmine for anyone interested in the pallet business, offering insights on:Overcoming challenges and embracing change.The significance of networking and mentorship.Strategic business planning and negotiation.Legal and financial pillars of running a pallet business.Building a positive industry reputation and fostering a supportive community.Eric's story is not just about the hurdles; it's about finding paths less traveled and making them your own. Whether you're navigating the gig economy, pondering a career shift, or looking to dive into the pallet industry, this episode is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and community.🔗 Connect with Eric: https://www.solvery.win/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikmikhanov🌐 Visit The Pallet Plug: https://www.thepalletplug.com/💡 Looking for more insights into the pallet industry or interested in joining our community? Subscribe to The Pallet Plug Podcast for more inspiring stories, expert advice, and a behind-the-scenes look into the world of pallets.#ThePalletPlugPodcast #PalletIndustry #Entrepreneurship #CareerTransition #EricMekhanov #InspirationalJourney
Joseph Dohmen joins on The Pallet Plug Podcast! He is a controls programmer with a heavy focus on the urban Sawmill. We talk about the Urban Sawmill, what it does, and how it does it. If you want to learn more about the Urban Sawmill or Alliance Automations check out this episode and our two previous episodes!LINKSAlliance website - https://allianceautomation.com/Joe's LinkedIn - / joseph-dohmen-9a0839116 Find a local Pallet Company - https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Jeremy Vogel joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast! Jeremy is the Robotic Pallet Dismantler Controls Technician at Alliance Automation. We talk about the Robotic Pallet Dismantler, how it works, and what purpose it serves within the industry. This is just one part of the many pieces off equipment that Alliance Automation make, stay tuned for our next episode. We talk about the next piece of equipment in the pallet dismantling line. Thanks for tuning in! Check out the links below to learn more about Alliance Automation and The Pallet Plug.LINKSAlliance Automation - https://allianceautomation.com/The Pallet Plug - https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Chet Wenniger Director of Operations at Alliance Automation joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast! We discuss what Alliance Automation does, the different types of machines they have built for the pallet recycling industry and what a pallet facility may look like in the future. This was filmed at Alliance Automation and I had some technical difficulties but I added some clips of the machines to fix it haha I hope you enjoy! Check out the links below!LINKShttps://allianceautomation.com/https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Chaille Brindley joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast. He is the Editor and Publisher of Pallet Enterprise Magazine. They are the best place to find information on all things pallet and pallet related. We talk about Pallet Enterprise, what's going on in the pallet industry currently, what the future may hold for the industry and much more! Check out the links below to learn more! LINKShttps://www.palletenterprise.com/https://palletprofile.com/https://recyclerecord.com/https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Matt McGowan Director of Wood Packing at Timber Products Inspection (find there YouTube below!) joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast! We talk about Heat Treating Pallets, the process behind it, the laws and regulations, and how to get your business certified to Heat Treat Pallets. Thanks for tuning in!LINKSTimber Products Inspection site - https://www.tpinspection.com/Matt's Email - mmcgowan@tpinspection.comThe Pallet Plug site - https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Michael Schmitt from Air Burners Inc joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast! We discuss what Air Burners are, how they work, and how they are a helpful piece of equipment for a Pallet Business. If you are interested in learning about a more efficient and environmentally friendly solution to dispose of your wood waste check them out!LINKSAir Burners Site - https://airburners.com/Air Burners LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/air-burners-inc/Michael Schmitt LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmittmichael/Marty Gonzalez LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-gonzalez-b6a9831a5/The Pallet Plug - https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Richard Helling owner of Pyramid Pallets joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast. We talk about his approach to the pallet business, some other interesting things you may come across when looking for pallets, and macro economics (something I know nothing about haha)
LINKS Richards LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardhe... The Pallet Plug - https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Sources - - https://finance.yahoo.com/video/u-cardboard-box-recession-says-210136924.html?guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFQFN0p0RtK1AHfrsWPF4X_ofbA-Phbn7eus5LBaacV2hqySDIaUVtWTe9fjD-7MahoF8ZHeCixdi02w7mlziJwcvJiz3LIdKUtlpZrXN8wXmvFtIlaMXiFN132yPWTx7NFJ3kUUlyFcNlYQVCw4QrcgpSFhNBMtqhcou80Us5q_&guccounter=2 - https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/13/chinas-june-trade-data-badly-misses-expectations.html - https://www.businessinsider.com/china-deflation-prices-falling-us-inflation-global-economic-crash-recession-2023-7 - https://soundcloud.com/upload - https://www.forbes.com/sites/richardmcgahey/2023/03/30/why-commercial-real-estate-could-cause-the-next-bank-failures/?sh=5f8b043417e8
Adam Sasser owner of E3 Pallets joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast! We discuss pallet business ownership, how to keep your employees happy, and some important lessons learned along the way. Adam is constantly posting online to showcase his business, check out his profile and website below. If you enjoy this content consider subscribing to catch all our latest episodes!
LINKS E3 Website - https://e3pallets.com/ E3 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/e3pa... Adams LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-sass... The Pallet Plug - https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Ashley Testa, Sales Manager at Heritage Pallets of Georgia joins us on The Pallet Plug Podcast! Pallet sales tips and tricks, the story of Heritage Pallets, and much more in this episode.
LINKS Heritage Pallets Website - https://www.heritagepallets.com/
The Pallet Plug -https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Blog Post - https://www.thepalletplug.com/post/sustainable-solutions-and-personalized-service-heritage-pallets-of-georgia
The Pallet Plug Podcast YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2dWmyh8UlCyMcFzTBsy0DQ
In this episode we spoke with Randy Ellington one of the owners of Pallet Sales and Recycling. We talked about pallets (of course), the changing climate of the pallet industry, and how honoring the relationships of the customers you have can make an impact on your business. If you are looking for some insight on what it's like running a pallet business check this episode out!
If you are in the pallet industry and would like to come on the podcast you can reach out through thepalletplug.com!
LINKS Pallet Sales and Recycling site - https://palletsalesandrecycling.com/home The Pallet Plug site - https://www.thepalletplug.com/ Blog post on Pallet Sales & Recycling - https://www.thepalletplug.com/post/it-s-all-about-honoring-the-relationships-at-pallet-sales-recycling
In this episode we speak with Antonio Brkic an employee of Helioz Technologies and one of the main engineers behind their software Pallet Insights. He tells us about the purpose of the technology, the benefit it provides to pallet business owners, and how this technology can help bring your pallet business into the 21st century.
They are offering all The Pallet Plug members a two month free trial. So if you are interested in giving this technology a test run in your own business you can find the link to their below.
LINKS https://www.thepalletplug.com/become-an-affiliate https://www.helioztechnologies.com/products/pallet-insights https://www.thepalletplug.com/
In this episode Kyle and Cory interview Jahan owner of DSJ Pallet in Decatur Georgia. We talk about how Jahan got started in the industry, mindset when owning a business, and much more! If you are interested in sharing your stories and insight about the industry reach out! We are always looking for more guests to have on our show.LINKShttps://dsjpallet.com/https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Welcome to another episode of the Pallet Plug Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of pallets and the professionals who make it all happen. Today, we had the pleasure of interviewing Mike Hungerland, the owner of The Pallet Pros, a renowned pallet business based in sunny Orlando, Florida.During our conversation, Mike shared his inspiring journey of how he got started in the pallet industry. He recounted the challenges he faced in the early days, from sourcing materials to building a customer base, but his determination propelled him forward.One key aspect that sets Mike and The Pallet Pros apart from the competition is their adept use of social media. Mike emphasized the power of social platforms as a means to educate people about the industry and promote his business. By sharing engaging and informative content, such as tips on pallet selection, recycling methods, and industry trends, he has successfully positioned himself as a thought leader in the pallet space.Networking emerged as another crucial factor in Mike's success. He highlighted the significance of building relationships within the pallet industry, both locally and nationally. Mike stressed that by connecting with fellow professionals, sharing knowledge, and exchanging business opportunities, one can establish a strong foundation within the industry.Overall, our conversation with Mike Hungerland shed light on the remarkable journey of a pallet business owner and highlighted the significance of leveraging social media and networking in today's business landscape. We hope that his insights inspire our listeners and provide valuable guidance to aspiring pallet professionals looking to make their mark in the industry. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes of the Pallet Plug Podcast!LINKS Mikes website - https://orlandopallets.com/YouTube Channel - @thepalletpro The Pallet Plug - https://www.thepalletplug.com/
In this episode Kyle and Cory speak with Andrew Hartman Ceo of Hartman Independent Company.Hartman Independent Company was founded in 1948 by Andrew's grandfather, and has been providing quality products and services to the pallet industry ever since. The company offers a wide range of products, including nails, nail guns, strapping, stretch film, and banding. They are also an authorized repair center for Bosch, Paslode, Signode, Makita, DeWalt, and many other brands of nailguns, compressors, and power tools.In this episode, Andrew shares his insights on the pallet industry, the challenges that businesses are facing, and how Hartman Independent Company is working to overcome these challenges. He also talks about his passion for business and his commitment to providing excellent customer service.One of the most memorable quotes from the conversation is:"We want to be that partner and we can be that partner that is going to bring a better result because of our ability to navigate the supply chain, the choppy waters of the economy, on your behalf our job is to be the buffer for your business the solution for your business so that when you call hartman you can get what you need and you can get it fixed."This quote perfectly sums up Hartman Independent Company's mission to be a trusted partner to the pallet industry. If you are looking for a reliable supplier of quality products and services, then Hartman Independent Company is the company for you.Check out this episode of the Pallet Plug Podcast to learn more about Hartman Independent Company and how the role they play in the pallet industry.LinksCheck out Hartman's website below!https://hartmanindco.com/If you are a pallet business looking to reach potential customers in more efficient and effective way check out the pallet plug below! https://www.thepalletplug.com/
In this episode of The Pallet Plug Podcast, Kyle and Cory interview Sam and Tyler, two individuals who work at Fuel Box Industrial. We talk about the different products that Fuel Box Industrial offers, how they can help pallet businesses, and how the company got started.Fuel Box Industrial is a family-owned business that has been manufacturing blades for the pallet industry for over 30 years. They have a deep understanding of the needs of pallet businesses and a commitment to providing high-quality products and services.In the interview, Sam and Tyler discuss the different types of blades that Fuel Box Industrial offers, including blades for dismantling, resawing, and a variety of other tasks. They also talk about the benefits of using Fuel Box Industrial's blades, including increased efficiency, reduced waste, and improved safety.Finally, Sam and Tyler discuss the history of Fuel Box Industrial and how the company got started. They share their passion for the pallet industry and their commitment to providing quality products and services to their customers.Here are some of the key takeaways from the interview:-Fuel Box Industrial offers a wide range of blades for the pallet industry, including blades for dismantling, resawing, and a variety of other tasks.-Fuel Box Industrial's blades are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last for a long time.-Fuel Box Industrial's blades are designed to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and improve safety.-Fuel Box Industrial is a family-owned business that has been manufacturing blades for the pallet industry for over 30 years.-Fuel Box Industrial is committed to providing quality products and services to their customers.If you are a pallet business owner, I encourage you to check out Fuel Box Industrial. They can help you improve your business and save money in the long run.LINKShttps://www.fuelboxindustrial.com/https://www.thepalletplug.com/
In this episode Kyle and Cory had the pleasure of speaking with Rick LeBlanc, a freelance writer and industry expert in the pallet industry.Rick shared some fascinating stories about the history of pallets, and how they came to be such an integral part of the modern supply chain. His extensive background in the industry provided us with a wealth of knowledge on topics such as pallet design and manufacturing, as well as the role of pallets in logistics and transportation.We also learned that Rick is the founder of Reusable Packaging News, a website and newsletter dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on reusable packaging trends and innovations. This resource is invaluable to anyone in the packaging industry who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest developments and best practices.Overall, our conversation with Rick was both informative and engaging. Whether you're a packaging professional or simply interested in learning more about the history and importance of pallets, you won't want to miss this episode of The Pallet Plug Podcast!https://www.thepalletplug.com/https://packagingrevolution.net/
In this episodes hosts Kyle and Cory speak with Jason Nitchie from Durham Pallets in Ontario Canada! Jason has been using Youtube as a way to market his business and establish himself as an authority figure in the industry. Jason shares how he got into the industry, the different directions his business is taking in this changing market, and he shares his perspective on caring for your employees in this harsh work environment. You can find links to Durham pallets below!https://durhampallet.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYBJ2zcAPRIBqfPUuoYUOUAIf you are a pallet business looking for a more efficient and effective way to grow your business check out https://www.thepalletplug.com/
Join us in this episode as we explore the exciting world of HempWood with Greg Wilson. We learn about the sustainable properties of HempWood, its benefits compared to traditional wood products, and the innovative manufacturing process developed to create this eco-friendly material.Greg takes us through the history of HempWood and its journey from an idea to a viable commercial product. He also talks about the unique features and qualities of HempWood, such as its superior durability, strength, and resistance to pests and fungi, making it an ideal material for a wide range of applications.We also get insights into the challenges and opportunities that come with building a new sustainable business, as Greg shares his experiences in overcoming obstacles and growing his company. Whether you are interested in eco-friendly building materials or entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen.https://www.hempwood.com/https://www.thepalletplug.com/
In this episode Kyle and Cory had the pleasure of speaking with Kat Matz of Epallet Inc. She shares how she got into the pallet industry, her involvement with the NWPCA, and some tips for people getting into the industry. If you are interested in coming on The Pallet Plug Podcast you can reach out at kyle@thepalletplug.com.https://www.thepalletplug.com/https://www.epalletinc.com/https://www.palletcentral.com/page/PalletPAC
In this episode Cory and Kyle discuss Brokering. Kyle describes 5 different ways you can get started and emphasizes necessary traits to have. Brokering is not a quick cash thing, and should be done with professionalism in mind. Thanks for listening!
In this episode Cory and Kyle discuss hauling off pallets, how to approach a business, how to work a deal so that it benefits both parties and much more. We appreciate everyone who is listening, if you have any questions you would like us to answer or if you would like to inquire about coming on the show please reach out through ThePalletPlug.com
In this episode Cory and Kyle speak with Michiel Vos the owner of Coco Pallets. You can learn about the manufacturing process of the pallets, the companies mission statement, and how they plan to grow. We had some technical issues at the end but we appreciate your patients! You can learn more about each company at www.cocopallet.com and www.thepalletplug.com.
In this episode Cory and Kyle discuss grading of pallets, sorting pallets, and tools to repair pallets. They offer suggestions when getting into pallets and familiarizing yourself with the industry and quality standards. Thank you for listening, if you have questions you would like us to discuss on the podcast or if you would like to be on podcast please reach out through ThePalletPlug.com
In this episode Cory and Kyle discuss what it takes to get started in the pallet business. Trucks, trailers, repair equipment and tear down equipment. They focus on safety tips for driving, loading up, and preventative maintenance. If you have any questions you would like us to answer or would like to be on the podcast please reach out to us at kylethepalletplug@gmail.com subject Podcast. Thank you for listening!
In this episode Cory and Kyle introduce themselves and talk about their start in the pallet industry. The purpose of this podcast is to bring attention to an industry operating in the background yet it is essential to the global supply chain. We are here to talk about the pallet industry, manufacturing, businesses that buy them, equipment and machinery for pallets, environmental impacts of the industry. We are going to try to bring on guests from every part of the industry, people just getting started to the big boys. People creating software to help make the industry more efficient, to the people building the machines to make production faster. We want to bring attention to an industry that has been around for a long time, that has a lot of really cool inspiring people in it. We want to provide opportunities for people to network and have a space where people can come and talk about the industry that has been an enigma for so long.