Smart Pallet System for Enhanced Freight Security and Monitoring

Abstract

Abstract A smart pallet system enhances freight security, accountability, and monitoring during storage and transportation. The smart pallet includes a durable pallet base with integrated straps for securing goods, which may include latchable straps or self-retracting strap modules with locking to maintain tension. A sensor suite monitors load condition including weight-change detection relative to a recorded baseline and may log environmental conditions such as temperature for perishable shipments. A location module provides tracking and supports geofencing alerts. A tamper-resistant on-pallet user interface enables virtual proof-of-delivery by receiver authentication using a PIN, one-time code, or similar credential, producing a time- and location-stamped delivery record. A communications module transmits location, sensor data, and event records to a remote portal / dashboard for real-time visibility, reporting, and integration with logistics software systems, including store-and-forward behavior during network loss. FIG. 1 100 170 190 120 180 110 192 130 210 230 140 20 25 28 73 82 26 D ec 2 02 5 2 6 D e c 2 0 2 5 2 0 2 5 2 8 7 3 8 2 1 2 0 1 8 0 1 1 0 1 9 2 1 3 0 2 1 0 2 3 0 1 4 0

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 738,845, filed December 26, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent not inconsistent with this disclosure. STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable. NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

[0003] None. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC OR AS A TEXT FILE

[0004] Not applicable. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention relates to logistics and supply chain management, and more particularly to reusable pallet systems providing secure load restraint, sensing, event logging, and communications for enhanced freight security and monitoring during storage and transportation. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Pallets are widely used for handling, storage, and transport of goods. Conventional pallets typically provide minimal verifiable accountability for the condition of goods during transit or at intermediate handling points.

[0007] Loss events such as theft, tampering, partial deliveries, misroutes, and environmental excursions may occur without reliable time-stamped evidence attributable to a particular time and / or location. Traditional proof-of-delivery practices may rely on paper documents or signatures that can be delayed, inconsistent, incomplete, or disputed.

[0008] Additionally, conventional pallets may suffer from damage, hygiene limitations, and inefficiencies in pooling ecosystems. Accordingly, there is a need for a durable, reusable pallet platform that improves shipment security, provides verifiable event records, and integrates into real-world freight workflows. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Disclosed herein is a smart pallet system (100) that may combine: (i) a durable pallet base (130) optionally including a deck (120), feet (140), and forklift openings (110); (ii) integrated load-securing straps (180) that may include simplified latchable straps and / or one or more strap modules (160) supporting controlled storage, retraction, and / or tension retention; (iii) embedded sensing (sensor suite 200) for monitoring at least load condition (e.g., weight change), and optionally location and environmental conditions; (iv) a controller / processor (270) configured to generate event records (220) responsive to sensed conditions and / or workflow actions; (v) an on-pallet user interface (230) that may support authenticated delivery confirmation (virtual proof-of-delivery); and (vi) connectivity via a communications module (250) to a remote portal / dashboard (280) for real-time visibility and reporting.

[0010] In some embodiments, one or more weight sensors of the sensor suite (200) support recording a baseline condition at dispatch and monitoring for deviations indicative of partial removal, addition, damage, or handling anomalies. In some embodiments, the controller / processor (270) applies filtering logic to distinguish transient handling events (e.g., brief lifting) from sustained removal / addition events.

[0011] In some embodiments, a GNSS / location module (240) provides location and optionally supports geofencing, with corresponding alerts and event records. In some embodiments, one or more temperature sensors and / or other environmental sensors provide compliance monitoring for perishable or sensitive shipments, including logging and excursion detection.

[0012] In some embodiments, the on-pallet user interface (230) supports receiver authentication (e.g., PIN, one-time code, token, or similar credential) and generates a proof-of-delivery event record (220) that may include a timestamp and / or location, and may be transmitted to the remote portal / dashboard (280).

[0013] In some embodiments, event records (220) may be stored locally and transmitted using store-and-forward behavior during intermittent connectivity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic overview / top view of an example smart pallet system (100) showing a pallet body including a deck (120), forklift opening (110), base (130), feet (140), corner modules (170), strap routing using strap(s) (180), anchor points (190), latch / buckle (192), and an electronics housing (210) with an on-pallet user interface (230).

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic cutaway view of an electronics housing (210) defining an internal cavity (212) and showing example placement of a controller / processor (270), battery / power module (260), communications module (250), and GNSS / location module (240).

[0016] FIG. 3 is a schematic top view illustrating strap routing using strap(s) (180), example strap anchor points (190), latch / buckle (192), and corner module(s) (170).

[0017] FIG. 4 is a schematic detail view of an example strap module (160) including a reel (172), ratchet wheel (176), pawl / lock (178), optional release lever / button (174), and strap (180).

[0018] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram showing an example sensor suite (200), controller / processor (270), communications module (250), GNSS / location module (240), battery / power module (260), on-pallet user interface (230), and a remote portal / dashboard (280).

[0019] FIG. 6 is a schematic remote portal and event flow diagram showing event records (220) generated by the smart pallet (100) and transmitted to the remote portal / dashboard (280). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following description sets forth example embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are open-ended and mean "including, but not limited to." References to "in some embodiments" indicate that the described feature, structure, or operation may be included in at least one embodiment, but does not necessarily apply to all embodiments. 1. Overview of the Smart Pallet System

[0021] In some embodiments, the smart pallet system (100) is a reusable pallet platform configured to secure a load using straps (180), monitor one or more conditions associated with the pallet and / or load, and generate and transmit event records (220) to a remote portal / dashboard (280).

[0022] The smart pallet (100) may be used for freight security, chain-of-custody visibility, temperature compliance monitoring, and reduction of delivery disputes via authenticated delivery confirmation. The disclosed embodiments are compatible with common logistics workflows including forklift and pallet-jack handling, warehouse staging, linehaul transportation, and last-mile delivery. 2. Pallet Base Structure and Handling Features

[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, in some embodiments the smart pallet (100) includes a base (130) and a deck (120). The base (130) may be molded, extruded, assembled, or otherwise manufactured from a durable polymer, composite, metal, wood, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the base (130) is moisture-resistant and / or chemical-resistant and tolerates cleaning procedures used in food, pharmaceutical, or industrial environments.

[0024] The deck (120) may include anti-slip texture, drainage features, raised locating structures, ribs, or other geometry configured to stabilize cartons, totes, drums, or other freight articles.

[0025] Forklift openings (110) and feet (140) are configured to enable handling by forklift tines and / or pallet jacks. In some embodiments, the base (130) includes reinforced corner structures and / or shock-absorbing features (e.g., ribs, pads, or localized thickening) configured to improve durability in transit.

[0026] In some embodiments, the base (130) includes integrated mounting regions for corner modules (170), strap anchor points (190), and / or an electronics housing (210). The placement may be selected to protect electronics from impacts and to reduce snag points during handling. 3. Electronics Housing and Enclosure Engineering

[0027] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, electronics housing (210) may be integrated into the base (130) and may define an internal cavity (212) configured to enclose electronics including controller / processor (270), battery / power module (260), communications module (250), and / or GNSS / location module (240).

[0028] In some embodiments, the electronics housing (210) is sealed to resist ingress of liquids and particulates. Non-limiting examples of sealing include gasketed interfaces, compressive sealing via fasteners, overmolding, potting, and / or conformal coating of internal electronics.

[0029] In some embodiments, the electronics housing (210) includes a tamper-resistant access feature such as security fasteners, concealed fasteners, a locked cover, a breakaway seal, or an access-detection mechanism.

[0030] In some embodiments, an "open" condition (e.g., housing opened, seal broken, or fastener removed) is treated as a tamper-related condition, and the controller / processor (270) generates an event record (220) including a timestamp and optionally a location indication. 4. Strap System, Anchor Points, and Load Restraint

[0031] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the smart pallet (100) includes a strap system comprising one or more straps (180) configured to secure goods to the base (130). The strap(s) (180) may route across the deck (120), around a load, through corners, and / or around an optional cover (if used).

[0032] Strap anchor points (190) may be integrated into the base (130), corner module(s) (170), or both. Latching may be provided by latch / buckle (192), which may be any suitable coupling member including a cam buckle, ratchet buckle, latch, clasp, hook, snap, bayonet coupling, or other releasable connector configured to couple a strap end to an anchor point (190).

[0033] Strap material may include (without limitation) woven webbing, polymer strap, textile strap, rope, cable, elastic member, or composite strap. In some embodiments, the strap (180) includes reinforcing features, abrasion-resistant sleeves, or edge protection. 4.1 Corner Modules and Routing Structures

[0034] Corner module(s) (170) shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 may provide one or more of: (i) routing guidance for strap(s) (180); (ii) protection of freight corners; (iii) integration of anchor points (190); and / or (iv) mechanical reinforcement of pallet corners.

[0035] In some embodiments, corner module(s) (170) include openings, hooks, or channels configured to guide a strap (180) while reducing localized wear. 4.2 Strap Modules for Storage, Retraction, and Tension Retention

[0036] Referring to FIG. 4, in some embodiments at least one strap (180) is associated with a strap module (160) configured to store and manage strap slack. The strap module (160) may include a reel (172) configured to wind the strap (180).

[0037] In some embodiments, the strap module (160) provides self-retracting behavior (e.g., spring-biased retraction) such that strap slack is retracted when released, improving usability and reducing loose strap hazards.

[0038] In some embodiments, the strap module (160) includes a locking mechanism comprising ratchet wheel (176) and pawl / lock (178) configured to resist reverse rotation and thereby maintain tension in the strap (180). In some embodiments, an optional release lever / button (174) is configured to disengage the pawl / lock (178) to permit controlled release.

[0039] Non-limiting example operation: an operator pulls strap (180) from reel (172), routes it over / around the load, and latches via latch / buckle (192). Tightening rotates the reel (172) in a tightening direction while the pawl / lock (178) engages the ratchet wheel (176) to resist reverse rotation. To release, the operator actuates the release lever / button (174), if present, allowing controlled reverse rotation and optionally enabling retraction. 4.3 Electromechanical Tensioning (Optional)

[0040] In some embodiments, the strap module (160) includes an electromechanical tensioning mechanism configured to apply or adjust tension to a strap (180). For example, a motorized drive may wind the strap (180) to a target tightness and then maintain tension using a lock or clutch (which may be implemented with or in addition to the ratchet wheel (176) and pawl / lock (178)).

[0041] In some embodiments, the controller / processor (270) controls tensioning (e.g., target tension, maximum strap force, lock engagement), including limiting maximum tension to reduce damage to freight. 5. Sensor Suite, Load / Weight Monitoring, and Event Logic

[0042] Referring to FIG. 5, sensor suite (200) may include one or more sensors configured to monitor conditions associated with the smart pallet (100) and / or the secured load. Sensors may be positioned in the base (130), deck (120), feet (140), corner module(s) (170), electronics housing (210), or other locations.

[0043] In some embodiments, the sensor suite (200) includes one or more load / weight sensors configured to measure a load supported by the pallet. Non-limiting examples include load cells, strain gauges, force-sensitive resistors, piezoelectric sensors, pressure sensors, deflection sensors, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, weight sensing is implemented via sensors associated with the feet (140) and / or load-support members of the base (130).

[0044] The controller / processor (270) may record a baseline load condition at dispatch, sealing, pickup, or route start. A "baseline" may include one or more values (e.g., weight, distribution, strap tension state) and may be associated with a time and optionally location.

[0045] The controller / processor (270) may evaluate measured load conditions to detect deviations beyond configurable thresholds. Deviations may be evaluated as absolute changes, percentage changes, distribution changes among multiple sensors, or combinations thereof. 5.1 Filtering Logic: Transient Handling vs Sustained Removal / Addition

[0046] In some embodiments, the controller / processor (270) distinguishes transient handling events from sustained removal / addition events using time-based filtering. For example, a transient lifting event may be identified when the measured load changes and returns within a baseline band within a time window, whereas a sustained removal / addition event may be identified when a deviation persists beyond a threshold duration.

[0047] In some embodiments, filtering uses one or more of: moving averages, hysteresis bands, debounce timers, multi-sample confirmation, or adaptive thresholds.

[0048] In some embodiments, the controller / processor (270) uses additional signals to classify events. Non-limiting examples include accelerometer / tilt sensing in the sensor suite (200) to detect forklift lift / transport, correlation with strap state changes, and / or correlation with location or geofence transitions. 5.2 Event Records

[0049] An "event record" (220) may include a data structure stored locally and / or transmitted to the remote portal / dashboard (280). In some embodiments, an event record (220) includes one or more of: a pallet identifier, shipment identifier, event type, timestamp, location indication, sensor readings (or summaries), and / or authentication status.

[0050] Non-limiting event types include: baseline set, strap secured, strap released, tamper detected, weight deviation detected, temperature excursion detected, geofence breach, delivery authentication success / failure, housing access detected, and connectivity loss / restoration.

[0051] In some embodiments, event records (220) are cryptographically protected (e.g., signed, hashed, or transmitted over encrypted channels) to improve integrity and non-repudiation. 6. Tamper Detection Approaches

[0052] In some embodiments, tamper detection is implemented using the sensor suite (200) and / or signals from the strap system. Non-limiting examples include: (a) the strap (180) includes an embedded conductive trace that changes state when cut; (b) the latch / buckle (192) includes a switch, reed sensor, Hall sensor, or similar mechanism to detect unlatching; (c) the strap module (160) provides rotation / tension state to infer loosening; and / or (d) the controller / processor (270) detects tampering patterns based on load / weight deviations relative to baseline.

[0053] When a tamper condition is detected, the controller / processor (270) generates an event record (220), which may include a timestamp and location indication, and transmits the event record (220) via communications module (250) to the remote portal / dashboard (280) when communications are available. 7. Environmental Monitoring

[0054] In some embodiments, the sensor suite (200) includes temperature sensing for perishable or sensitive shipments. The controller / processor (270) may log temperature values, generate alerts when values exceed preset ranges, and store corresponding event records (220) for transmission to the remote portal / dashboard (280).

[0055] In some embodiments, environmental monitoring includes additional sensors (e.g., humidity, shock / vibration, light exposure, door-open proximity, or water ingress) and may generate associated event records (220). 8. Location Tracking and Geofencing

[0056] In some embodiments, the GNSS / location module (240) provides location data during a journey. In some embodiments, location may additionally or alternatively be determined using cellular positioning, Wi-Fi positioning, Bluetooth beacons, or other techniques, and treated as a "location indication."

[0057] In some embodiments, the controller / processor (270) implements geofencing rules such that when the smart pallet (100) exits (or enters) a designated boundary, an alert is generated, stored as an event record (220), and transmitted to the remote portal / dashboard (280).

[0058] Geofences may be associated with origin warehouses, cross-docks, customer sites, delivery windows, or other logistics nodes. 9. Power System

[0059] Battery / power module (260) powers the controller / processor (270), sensor suite (200), on-pallet user interface (230), GNSS / location module (240), and communications module (250) as applicable. In some embodiments, the battery / power module (260) comprises a rechargeable battery pack, replaceable battery pack, or both.

[0060] In some embodiments, a supplemental charging element provides energy harvesting such as solar-assisted charging to extend operational runtime.

[0061] In some embodiments, the controller / processor (270) manages power by switching components to low-power states, adjusting sampling intervals, and / or changing reporting frequency based on battery state and shipment priority. 10. Communications and Transmission Security

[0062] Communications module (250) may include cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, low-power wide-area network (LPWAN), satellite, or combinations thereof. Data may be transmitted in real time, near real time, at defined intervals, or event-triggered.

[0063] In some embodiments, the smart pallet (100) supports secure communications, including encrypted transport, authenticated sessions, integrity checks, and / or device authentication.

[0064] In some embodiments, the controller / processor (270) stores event records (220) in nonvolatile memory during loss of network connectivity and uploads stored event records (220) when connectivity is restored (store-and-forward). 11. On-Pallet User Interface and Virtual Proof-of-Delivery

[0065] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 5, the on-pallet user interface (230) may include a display and an input system. Non-limiting examples of input include keypad, button(s), touchscreen, scanner, proximity reader, or wireless credential receipt via a user device.

[0066] At delivery, a receiver may authenticate using a credential such as a PIN, one-time code, QR code, token, or similar credential. In response to successful authentication, the controller / processor (270) generates a proof-of-delivery event record (220) including at least a timestamp and optionally a location indication (e.g., from GNSS / location module (240)).

[0067] In some embodiments, unsuccessful authentication attempts are logged as event records (220) and may be subject to a retry policy (e.g., limited attempts, lockout delay, escalation alert).

[0068] In some embodiments, the user interface (230) displays prompts, shipment identifiers, and / or confirmation status, and may present tamper / temperature alerts or other status information. 12. Remote Portal / Dashboard and Integration

[0069] Referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, remote portal / dashboard (280) receives transmitted data and event records (220) and provides access to shipment status and event history.

[0070] In some embodiments, the portal / dashboard (280) presents one or more of: location history, geofence events, temperature logs and excursions, weight-change events, tamper alerts, and proof-of-delivery event records.

[0071] In some embodiments, portal / dashboard (280) provides an application programming interface (API) for integration with logistics software systems, including transportation management systems, warehouse management systems, and customer visibility tools. 13. Optional Cover and Load Containment Variations

[0072] In some embodiments, an optional cover is configured to couple to the pallet base (130) to protect or contain goods. The strap system may be configured to secure goods between the pallet base (130) and the optional cover, and event logic may include detection of cover access (e.g., via switches or seals) as an event record (220).

[0073] In some embodiments, the cover includes insulation, thermal mass, or protective panels for temperature-sensitive freight. 14. Example Operating Sequence (Non-Limiting)

[0074] (1) A load is placed on the smart pallet (100), e.g., on deck (120) supported by base (130).

[0075] (2) Strap(s) (180) are routed and secured using anchor points (190) and latch / buckle (192) (FIG. 1, FIG. 3). In embodiments using strap module (160), reel (172) manages slack and a ratchet wheel (176) and pawl / lock (178) maintain tension, optionally releasable via release lever / button (174) (FIG. 4).

[0076] (3) Controller / processor (270) records a baseline load condition using the sensor suite (200) (FIG. 5).

[0077] (4) During transit, the smart pallet (100) determines location using GNSS / location module (240) and generates and transmits event records (220) to the remote portal / dashboard (280) via communications module (250), using store-and-forward during outages as applicable (FIG. 5, FIG. 6).

[0078] (5) At delivery, the receiver authenticates via on-pallet user interface (230), and the controller / processor (270) generates a proof-of-delivery event record (220) (FIG. 1, FIG. 5, FIG. 6).

[0079] (6) Portal / dashboard (280) stores and presents event records (220) and sensor logs for accountability, reporting, and integration (FIG. 6). ADVANTAGES / INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0080] The disclosed system may enhance freight security and accountability by combining load restraint with digital monitoring and event logging. Weight-change detection and tamper alerts may help identify loss and mishandling. Temperature monitoring may support compliance for perishable goods. Virtual proof-of-delivery may reduce disputes and delays. Durable construction may reduce waste and increase pallet lifespan across pooling ecosystems. ABSTRACT

[0081] A smart pallet system enhances freight security, accountability, and monitoring during storage and transportation. The smart pallet includes a durable pallet base with integrated straps for securing goods, which may include latchable straps or self-retracting strap modules with locking to maintain tension. A sensor suite monitors load condition including weight-change detection relative to a recorded baseline and may log environmental conditions such as temperature for perishable shipments. A location module provides tracking and supports geofencing alerts. A tamper-resistant on-pallet user interface enables virtual proof-of-delivery by receiver authentication using a PIN, one-time code, or similar credential, producing a time- and location-stamped delivery record. A communications module transmits location, sensor data, and event records to a remote portal / dashboard for real-time visibility, reporting, and integration with logistics software systems, including store-and-forward behavior during network loss. REFERENCE NUMERALS 100 smart pallet (smart pallet system) 110 forklift opening (forklift entry) 120 deck 130 base 140 foot 160 strap module 170 corner module 172 reel (reel / spool) 174 release lever / button (optional) 176 ratchet wheel 178 pawl / lock 180 strap(s) 190 strap anchor point(s) 192 latch / buckle 200 sensor suite 210 electronics housing 212 internal cavity 220 event record (data) 230 on-pallet user interface (UI) 240 GNSS / location module 250 communications module / transmitter 260 battery / power module 270 controller / processor 280 remote portal / dashboard

Claims

1. A smart pallet, comprising:a pallet structure comprising a base configured for handling by a forklift or pallet jack;a strap system coupled to the pallet structure and configured to secure goods to the base;a sensor suite configured to sense at least a load condition associated with the goods supported by the pallet structure;a controller operatively coupled to the sensor suite, the controller configured to generate an event record responsive to the sensed load condition;a communications module configured to transmit data comprising the event record to a remote portal; andan on-pallet user interface comprising a display and an input device, the on-pallet user interface configured to receive an authentication credential for delivery confirmation,wherein the controller is configured to generate a proof-of-delivery event record responsive to successful receipt of the authentication credential, the proof-of-delivery event record including a timestamp.

2. The smart pallet of claim 1, wherein the sensor suite comprises at least one weight sensor configured to measure a load supported by the base.

3. The smart pallet of claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to store a baseline weight and detect a weight deviation relative to the baseline weight.

4. The smart pallet of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to distinguish a transient lifting event from a sustained removal or addition event based at least on whether the weight deviation persists beyond a threshold duration.

5. The smart pallet of claim 4, wherein the controller applies at least one of hysteresis, multi-sample confirmation, or a moving average to readings from the at least one weight sensor.

6. The smart pallet of claim 1, wherein the sensor suite comprises at least one temperature sensor configured to sense an environmental condition associated with the goods, and wherein the controller is configured to generate a temperature excursion event record when the sensed temperature is outside a preset range.

7. The smart pallet of claim 1, further comprising a location moduleconfigured to provide a location indication to the controller.

8. The smart pallet of claim 7, wherein the controller is configured to generate a geofence alert event record responsive to determining that the smart pallet exited or entered a designated boundary.

9. The smart pallet of claim 1, further comprising a tamper detection arrangement configured to detect at least one of: cutting of a strap of the strap system, unlatching of a coupling member of the strap system, or loss of strap tension beyond a threshold, wherein the controller is configured to generate a tamper event record responsive to detecting a tamper condition.

10. The smart pallet of claim 9, further comprising a location module configured to provide a location indication to the controller, wherein the tamper event record includes a timestamp and the location indication.

11. The smart pallet of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to store event records locally during loss of network connectivity and to transmit at least one of the stored event records after network connectivity is restored.

12. The smart pallet of claim 1, wherein the strap system comprises at least one anchor point fixed relative to the base and at least one coupling member configured to latch at least one strap to the at least one anchor point.

13. The smart pallet of claim 1, wherein the strap system comprises a strap module including a reel configured to wind a strap.

14. The smart pallet of claim 13, wherein the strap module is configured to self-retract the strap when slack is released.

15. The smart pallet of claim 13, wherein the strap module comprises a ratchet wheel and a pawl configured to resist reverse rotation of the reel to maintain tension in the strap, and further comprising a release lever configured to disengage the pawl to permit release of the strap.

16. The smart pallet of claim 1, further comprising an electronics housing integrated into the base and defining an internal cavity in which at least the controller is disposed, wherein the electronics housing is sealed and includes a tamper-resistant access feature.

17. A smart pallet monitoring system, comprising:a smart pallet, comprising:• a pallet structure comprising a base configured for handling by a   forklift or palletjack;• a strap system coupled to the pallet structure and configured to   secure goods to thebase;• a s ensor suite configured to s ense at least a load condition associated with the goods supported by the pallet structure;• a controller operatively coupled to the sensor suite, the controller   configured togenerate event records responsive to sensed conditions;• a communications module configured to transmit data comprising the event records to a remote portal; and• an on-pallet user interface comprising a display and an input device,   the on-palletuser interface configured to receive an authentication credential for delivery confirmation, wherein the controller is configured to generate a proof-of-delivery event record responsive to successful receipt of the authentication credential, the proof-of-delivery event record including a timestamp; andthe remote portal configured to receive the data from the smart pallet and to present, via a user interface, an event history including at least proof-of-delivery event records and at least one of temperature excursion event records, geofence alert event records, or tamper event records.

18. The smart pallet monitoring system of claim 17, wherein the remote portal is configured to provide an application programming interface (API) enablingintegration with logistics software.

19. A method of monitoring freight using a smart pallet, comprising:placing goods on a base of the smart pallet;securing the goods to the base using a strap system of the smart pallet;sensing, using a sensor suite of the smart pallet, a load condition associated with the goods;generating, using a controller of the smart pallet, an event record responsive to the sensed load condition;transmitting, via a communications module of the smart pallet, data comprising the event record to a remote portal;determining a location indication using a location module;sensing temperature using at least one temperature sensor and generating a temperature excursion event record when a sensed temperature is outside a preset range;generating a geofence alert event record responsive to determining that the smart pallet exited or entered a designated boundary;receiving an authentication credential via an on-pallet user interface comprising a display and an input device and generating a proof-of-delivery event record responsive to successful receipt of the authentication credential, the proof-of-delivery event record including a timestamp;detecting a tamper condition associated with the strap system and generating a tamper event record; andstoring at least one event record locally during loss of network connectivity and transmitting the stored event record after network connectivity is restored.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising distinguishing a transient lifting event from a sustained removal or addition event based at least on whether a weight deviation persists beyond a threshold duration.

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