Pallet

Abstract

A pallet ( 1 ) includes a deck ( 2 ) having upper and lower surfaces ( 4,6 ) and a plurality of legs ( 8 ) depending from the lower surface of the deck ( 2 ) to support the deck above the ground. A plurality of apertures ( 10 ) are provided in the upper surface of the deck ( 2 ). The apertures ( 10 ) are arranged to receive the legs of a second pallet ( 1 a ) so that the second pallet can be stacked on the pallet ( 1 ) in a nested condition. A plurality of closure elements ( 12 ) are associated with the apertures ( 10 ), each said closure element being adjustable to selectively open or close the respective aperture.

1 . A pallet comprising a deck having upper and lower surfaces, a plurality of legs depending from the lower surface of the deck to support the deck, a plurality of apertures in the upper surface of the deck arranged to receive the legs of a second pallet so that the second pallet can be stacked on the pallet in a nested condition, and a plurality of closure elements associated with the apertures, each said closure element being adjustable to selectively open or close the respective aperture.  
   
   
       2 . A pallet according to  claim 1 , in which the apertures are aligned with the legs, so that when a second pallet is stacked on the pallet in a nested condition, the legs of the second pallet are received partially within the legs of the pallet.  
   
   
       3 . A pallet according to  claim 1 , in which the legs are tapered.  
   
   
       4 . A pallet according to  claim 1 , in which the legs include support structures for supporting the legs of a second pallet.  
   
   
       5 . A pallet according to  claim 1 , in which the closure elements comprise pivotable doors.  
   
   
       6 . A pallet according to  claim 5 , in which the closure elements comprise hinged doors.  
   
   
       7 . A pallet according to  claim 5 , in which the closure elements are constructed and arranged such that when closed, they are substantially flush with the upper surface of the deck.  
   
   
       8 . A pallet according to  claim 1 , in which each leg is substantially U-shaped, comprising two side members and a substantially horizontal foot member.  
   
   
       9 . A pallet according to  claim 1 , in which the pallet comprises a plastics moulding.