Glossary
Pallet Design System (PDS)
Also called: PDS, PDS software
Reviewed
The Pallet Design System (PDS) is the wood pallet design and analysis software from Woodpack Global (formerly NWPCA). First released in 1984 and now at version 6.12, it produces spec sheets, drawings and safe-load, deflection and service-life analyses. It runs on Windows under an annual lease of $2,000 a year for members and $5,250 for non-members.
On this page
What PDS produces
- Pallet specification sheet with classification, components, fasteners and lumber
- Structural analysis: safe load, deflection and critical member for each support condition
- Lateral collapse resistance and service-life (durability) analysis
- Physical properties: weight at various moisture contents and shrinkage
- 2-D and 3-D drawings and a production order with cut list and fastener counts
Who uses it and why
Licensed pallet manufacturers use PDS for spec sheets, quoting and production orders. Some large buyers require a PDS report: Costco for purpose-built pallets and Home Depot (PDS or an ASTM D1185 test). The Uniform Standard names PDS as the recognized computer model for its performance standard. Confirm buyer requirements with the current vendor guide.
Licensing (current published prices)
| License | Member | Non-member |
|---|---|---|
| Basic, 1 installation | $2,000/yr | $5,250/yr |
| Server | $2,750/yr | $7,400/yr |
PDS and palletdesign.ai
palletdesign.ai is independent of PDS. It produces drawings, parts lists and indicative checks in the browser; a certified rating still comes from a PDS analysis or physical testing. See the PDS report explained and pallet design software.
Questions
- Who makes the Pallet Design System?
- Woodpack Global, the association formerly called the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA).
- Does PDS run on a Mac?
- PDS is Windows software. It can also be run through server setups such as Citrix or remote desktop.