Following a successful test that will expand its use of Intelligent Global Pooling Systems' (iGPS) pallets, Dole Fresh Vegetables said it has also completed testing of iGPS plastic pallets in combination with plastic RPCs.

"The iGPS plastic pallets performed flawlessly from the field all the way to the end user," said Robert Engle, Dole's v.p. of supply chain. "The RPCs rode well with no slippage or shifting of any kind."

Dole has developed a system that ties the unique iGPS pallet ID with Dole's products UPC to aid in tracking the product movement throughout the supply chain. "Our customers are very excited about the transition," said Engle.

As the latest company to adopt iGPS 100 percent recyclable plastic pallet, the Monterey, Calif.-based Dole Fresh Vegetables joins Imperial Sugar, Pilgrim's Pride and Martori Farms, among others, in switching from wood to plastic pallets.
 
"Using the iGPS plastic pallet is part of Dole's commitment to continually providing our customers with value-added supply chain solutions that enhance our service offering," said Engle, adding that the new pallet system "is a leap forward for the supply chain and, equally important, is further evidence of our commitment to acting in an environmentally responsible manner."
 
The Orlando, Fla.-based iGPS provides manufacturers and retailers with an all-plastic pallet pool with embedded RFID-tags; its state-of-the-art pallets are 30 percent lighter than wood, which saves on transport costs, and are billed as being easier to handle and eliminating protruding nails and splinters that cause workplace injuries and damaged equipment. In addition, embedded RFID tags enable shippers and receivers to track and trace shipments in real time. Pegasus Capital Advisors, a private equity fund manager retains a majority interest in the company.