Pallet Networks use some distinctive language that might be new to users unfamiliar with how the Networks operate. This article gives a general overview of some of the frequently used terms, that you could expect to see used in reference across different Pallet Networks.
Member
A Member is a local haulier that belongs to a pallet network. Each member is assigned a defined set of postcodes and is responsible for collections and deliveries within that area. Members operate under shared service standards and contribute to the wider national coverage of the network.
Depot
A Depot is a member’s operating facility used for:
Local collections and deliveries
Cross-dock operations between trunk vehicles and local distribution runs
Pallet networks also use:
Requesting Depot - creates & submits consignment to network and 'owns' the job commercially, however they may or may not participate in the collection or delivery.
Collection Depot - Depot assigned by network to perform pickup in the origin postcode/zone, and trunking to Hub.
Delivery Depot - Depot responsible for the final delivery in the destination area.
Hub
The Hub is the central transhipment site where trunk vehicles from all depots converge, typically overnight.
At the hub, pallets are:
Unloaded,
Sorted,
Reloaded onto outbound trunks bound for the relevant destination depots.
Hub codes and schedules are used to control trunk routing and timing.
Gazetteer
The Gazetteer is the network’s official postcode map. It defines:
Which depot serves each postcode area,
The corresponding hub routing, and
Pricing or zoning rules.
Some form of gazetteer is used to automatically allocate consignments, generate correct routing labels, and ensure accurate billing.
Trunking
Trunking refers to the nightly linehaul movements between depots and hubs.
These runs often follow fixed schedules and defined lanes, for example:
Depot → Hub (inbound trunk)
Hub → Depot (outbound trunk)
Service Level
A Service Level represents the agreed transit promise—such as:
Next Day
Economy
Dedicated Day
Each pallet network may use unique service codes. These must be mapped correctly to ensure that service performance and pricing are recorded accurately.
Consignment
A Consignment is the end-to-end shipment record, and will typically include:
One or more pallets,
Associated labels, and
All relevant documentation (e.g., collection notes, delivery instructions, ePODs).
The consignment reference provides the central link between operational, financial, and tracking data.
Labels
Labels are barcoded identifiers issued according to network rules. They contain:
Routing information (hub and depot codes),
Service level details, and
Consignment references.
All pallet movements must carry a compliant label to enable network scanning, sorting, and tracking.
Scan Status
A Scan Status represents a key track-and-trace event during the consignment lifecycle, such as:
Collected
Inbound to hub
Outbound from hub
At depot
Out for delivery
Delivered
Exception
These update automatically through network integrations or manual scans, providing full visibility of pallet progress.
Self-Billing
Self-Billing automates financial reconciliation between members and the network.
Charges are calculated using:
Network rate cards,
Surcharges
Required paperwork or scan events.
This process ensures that invoices align exactly with network billing standards and audit requirements.
Proof of delivery (POD)
POD - Proof of delivery captures delivery confirmation, often including a signature.
ePOD - Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD) captures delivery confirmation, often including a signature, timestamp, and photo evidence. Depending on network setup, may:
Retrieve ePODs automatically from the network feed
Upload local ePODs for synchronisation to the central system
COP - Customer own paperwork is a customer specific proof of delivery (POD) which is signed.
Delivery images - photos associated with the final delivery event that serve as proof of delivery and condition; examples include:
Photo of pallets at site or loading bay
Close up of labels/barcodes on pallets
Condition/damage photos if issues found
Paperwork photos accompanying POD
Last mile delivery
Consignment is received in Depot, from the Hub and loaded to a vehicle for delivery to the final destination.
Portal
Each pallet network operates from it's own bespoke centralised operating system. Integrations into these systems optimise operating efficiencies for both carrier and network, offering enhanced communication and visibility between systems.
Implants
Pallet network implants are orders created in the network portal where the requesting depot is the customer’s own depot. These orders are then imported into Qargo, allowing the customer to have full visibility of all their orders in one central location