(57) A pallet base assembly for a shipping container, which includes a pallet base (13)
and two cargo supports (38; 39) mounted thereon. The two cargo supports (38; 39) are
also utilized to form ramps for unloading the cargo from the base (13). Each cargo
support (38; 39) includes a relatively flat support element (51; 54) providing a ramp
surface when the support is used as a ramp and a cushioning element (52. 53; 56, 57)
which is interposed between the support element (51; 54) and the cargo when the support
is mounted on the pallet base (13) for supporting the cargo. The illustrated form
of the pallet base assembly further includes two deformable cushioning elements (46;
43), mounted on the pallet base (13). to serve as the principal cargo supports (37;
41). Each deformable cushioning element (46; 43) includes an opening within which
is received a removable support insert (68, 69; 71, 72). Removal of the support insert
(68, 69; 71, 72) weakens the deformable cushioning element (46; 43), allowing the
element to deform, lowering the cargo onto the pallet base (13).
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