Patent Publication Number: US-11021316-B2

Title: Pallet stabilizer

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/382,433, filed Apr. 12, 2019 and entitled “PALLET STABILIZER,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates to a pallet stabilizer structure and, more particularly, to a pallet stabilizer structure that can be formed from a paperboard blank. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Palleted goods, or pallets, are frequently shipped via truckload shipping, e.g., with the pallets loaded in trailers, where numerous pallets can be placed in front-to-back and side-to-side relationship to one another. Due to weight restrictions, setting maximum weights for the freight on a trailer, the pallets may be distributed throughout the trailer to provide a distributed weight along the length and between the sides of the trailer. The distribution of pallets often results in a spacing between adjacent pallets and between pallets and the sides of the trailer. For example, the pallets may be arranged in rows extending in the width direction of a trailer, where the rows can be alternately positioned to the left and right in a zig-zag pattern extending from front to back in the trailer, and alternately leaving spaces between each pallet row and a side of the trailer. Additionally, the alternating rows can include rows that position pallets adjacent to both sides of the trailer, leaving a central space between the pallets on either side. During transportation, the spaces around the pallets can permit the pallets to shift or lean with resulting distortion of, for example, stacked containers forming the pallet. Hence, there is a need for a stabilizing structure that can fill the spaces between pallets and/or between pallets and the sides of a trailer to prevent shifting of the pallets during transport. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a paperboard blank is provided for use in forming a pallet stabilizer. The blank comprises a central panel having opposing first and second outer longitudinal sides, and opposing first and second lateral sides. At least one body flap is hingedly joined to the central panel along a lateral flap fold line generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides. The at least one body flap has first and second inner longitudinal edges spaced inward from the first and second outer longitudinal sides and extending laterally outward from the central panel. An outer edge is located at a laterally opposing end of the at least one body flap from the flap fold line, and first, second, and third flap panels are connected in series at first and second panel fold lines, respectively. A glue tab is connected to the third flap panel at a third panel fold line, and the flap panels and glue tab are foldable relative to the each other and relative to the central panel to position the glue tab in parallel overlapping relation on the central panel when the paperboard blank is formed into a pallet stabilizer. 
     A lateral dimension of the glue tab may be less than a lateral dimension of each of the first, second, and third flap panels. 
     The flap fold line may be located laterally inward on the central panel between the first and second lateral sides of the central panel. 
     One or more longitudinal score lines may be provided extending laterally across the at least one body flap from the flap fold line to the outer edge and defining a fold or tear location configured for decreasing a longitudinal dimension of the flap. 
     A support flap may be formed in the at least one body flap and may be supported for pivot movement to engage at least two of the flap panels when the paperboard blank is formed into a pallet stabilizer. 
     The support flap may be defined by side separation lines substantially aligned with the first and second panel fold lines, and an end separation line extending across the second flap panel. 
     The at least one body flap may comprise a first body flap, and the blank may further include a second body flap hingedly joined to the central panel along a lateral second flap fold line generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides. The second body flap may include first and second inner longitudinal edges spaced inward from the first and second outer longitudinal sides and extending laterally outward from the central panel opposite from the first body flap, and an outer edge at a laterally opposing end of the second body flap from the second flap fold line, and first, second, and third flap panels connected in series at first and second panel fold lines, respectively, and a glue tab connected to the third flap panel at a third panel fold line. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a pallet stabilizer formed from a paperboard blank is provided. The paperboard blank comprises a generally planar central panel having opposing first and second outer longitudinal sides, and opposing first and second lateral sides. A hollow beam structure including at least one beam body defined by a body flap is formed integral with the central panel and comprises a plurality of flap panels connected in series at respective panel fold lines. Two of the flap panels define longitudinally extending opposing beam sides extending transverse to a plane defined by the central panel. One of the flap panels is located distal from the central panel and hingedly connected to each of the two flap panels defining the beam sides at respective panel fold lines. A glue tab is connected to one of the beam sides and is attached in overlapping relation on the central panel, and opposing longitudinal beam edges are spaced longitudinally inward from the opposing outer longitudinal sides of the central panel. 
     The opposing beam sides may be each spaced laterally inward from a respective one of the first and second lateral sides of the central panel. 
     The plurality of flap panels forming the at least one beam body may comprise first, second, and third flap panels connected in series at first and second panel fold lines, respectively, and the first flap panel may be hingedly joined to the central panel along a lateral flap fold line generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides, and the glue tab may define an outer edge of the body flap. 
     One or more longitudinal score lines may extend laterally across the flap panels and define a fold or tear location configured for decreasing a longitudinal dimension of the at least one beam body. 
     A support flap may be formed in the at least one body flap and extend into the at least one beam body to engage at least two of the flap panels. 
     The support flap may be defined in the blank by side separation lines substantially aligned with the first and second panel fold lines, and an end separation line extending across the second flap panel. 
     The body flap may comprise a first body flap forming a first beam body, the hollow beam structure may further include a second body flap formed integral with the central panel and forming a second beam body laterally spaced from the first beam body. The second body flap may comprise a plurality of second beam flap panels connected in series at respective panel fold lines, two of the plurality of second beam flap panels defining longitudinally extending opposing second beam sides extending transverse to a plane defined by the central panel. One of the second beam flap panels may be located distal from the central panel and may be hingedly connected to each of the two second beam flap panels defining the second beam sides at respective panel fold lines. A glue tab may be connected to one of the beam sides and may be attached in overlapping relation on the central panel. 
     In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a method of forming a pallet stabilizer from a blank is provided. The blank comprises a central panel having opposing first and second outer longitudinal sides, and opposing first and second lateral sides. At least one body flap is hingedly joined to the central panel along a lateral flap fold line generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides. The at least one body flap has first and second inner longitudinal edges spaced inward from the first and second outer longitudinal sides and extending laterally outward from the central panel. An outer edge is located at a laterally opposing end of the at least one body flap from the flap fold line, and first, second, and third flap panels are connected in series at first and second panel fold lines, respectively. A glue tab is connected to the third flap panel at a third panel fold line. A portion of the flap panels are folded about one of the panel fold lines and the glue tab is adhered in overlapping relation on the central panel. The method includes forming a hollow beam structure and comprises pivoting the first and third flap panels to positions transverse to the central panel to define a beam body, and positioning a support structure within the beam body to substantially resist pivotal movement of the first and third flap panels from the positions transverse to the central panel. 
     The support structure may comprise a support flap connected for pivotal movement relative to the beam body, and positioning the support structure may comprise engaging the support flap with opposing sides of the beam body. 
     The support flap may be pivotally connected to the second panel flap and positioning the support structure may comprise frictionally engaging the support structure with the first and third flap panels. 
     The method may further comprise folding or tearing the at least one body flap at a longitudinal score line extending laterally across the at least one body flap to decrease a longitudinal dimension of the beam body. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the present invention, it is believed that the present invention will be better understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying Drawing Figures, in which like reference numerals identify like elements, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a plan view of a blank for forming a pallet stabilizer; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view illustrating a partially erected pallet stabilizer using the blank of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a pallet stabilizer formed using the blank of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is an enlarged plan view of a second locking structure for locking a beam body of the pallet stabilizer in an erected position; 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged perspective view of the second locking structure of  FIG. 4  engaged with a first locking structure for locking a beam body of the pallet stabilizer in an erected position; 
         FIG. 6  is a plan view of the blank of  FIG. 1  modified to provide a reduced longitudinal dimension for beam bodies of the pallet stabilizer; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view illustrating the pallet stabilizer of  FIG. 3  in position between two pallets; 
         FIG. 8  is a plan view of a blank for constructing an optional pallet stabilizer; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a pallet stabilizer formed using the blank of  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a plan view of a blank for constructing a further optional pallet stabilizer; 
         FIG. 11  is a plan view of the blank of  FIG. 10  with body flaps folded to position glue tabs in association with a central panel to form a collapsed configuration of the pallet stabilizer; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a pallet stabilizer formed using the blank of  FIG. 10 ; and 
         FIG. 13  is an end view of the pallet stabilizer shown in  FIG. 12 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration, and not by way of limitation, specific preferred embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     The present description is directed to a pallet stabilizer that can be provided as a stabilizing structure between pallet stacks, configured as stacks of goods on pallets and generally referred to herein as “pallets,” and can additionally be provided as a stabilizing structure between a pallet, i.e., a pallet stack, and a shipping container wall, e.g., a trailer wall, or similar stable structure. Further, while the goods depicted herein for shipment on the pallet comprise boxes or cartons, it may be understood that the present description is not limited to a pallet of any particular type of goods. As may be understood from the following description, the pallet stabilizer described herein can be used to stabilize one or more pallets, wherein the pallet stabilizer could be provided to a user or customer as a planar unitary blank and quickly configured into an erected configuration for use in stabilizing the pallet(s). 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a die cut blank  10  is shown for illustrating one or more aspects of the pallet stabilizer described herein. In a use of the blank  10  to form a pallet stabilizer  8 , see  FIGS. 3 and 7 , the blank  10  may be formed of a corrugated cardboard material such as, e.g., single-wall corrugated material, and may be die cut to the shape shown herein, although other materials and variations of the illustrated shape may be provided within the scope of the pallet stabilizer described and claimed herein. The blank  10  illustrated in  FIG. 1  is a planar piece of material in which an inner or lower side  12  is shown facing out of the page and an outer or upper side  14 , see  FIG. 7 , is facing an opposite direction from the inner side  12 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 1 , the blank  10  extends in a longitudinal direction L 1  between first and second longitudinal edges, generally designated  16  and  18 , respectively, and further extends in a lateral direction L 2  between first and second lateral edges, generally designated  20  and  22 , respectively. The blank  10  comprises a generally planar central panel  24  including a first outer longitudinal side  16   a  coinciding with the first longitudinal edge  16  of the blank  10 , an opposing second outer longitudinal side  18   a  coinciding with the second longitudinal edge  18  of the blank  10 , and opposing first and second lateral sides  20   a ,  22   a . It may be noted that the elongated direction C of the flutes for the corrugated material of the blank  10  are oriented to extend parallel to the longitudinal direction L 1 . 
     The blank  10  further comprises a first and second body flaps  26 ,  28 . The first body flap  26  is hingedly joined to the central panel  24  along a lateral flap fold line  30  extending generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides  16   a ,  18   a . The first body flap  26  includes first and second inner longitudinal edges  32 ,  34  spaced inward from the respective first and second outer longitudinal sides  16   a ,  18   a , wherein the first and second inner longitudinal edges  32 ,  34  extend laterally outward from the central panel  24  between the first flap fold line  30  and an outer edge of the first body flap  26  defined at the first lateral edge  20 . Further, the first and second inner longitudinal edges  32 ,  34  extend laterally outward from a pair of first lateral side portions  20   a   1 ,  20   a   2  defining the first lateral side  20   a  of the central panel  24  on opposing longitudinal sides of the first body flap  26 . 
     The second body flap  28  is hingedly joined to the central panel  24  along a lateral flap fold line  40  extending generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides  16   a ,  18   a . The second body flap  28  includes first and second inner longitudinal edges  42 ,  44  spaced inward from the respective first and second outer longitudinal sides  16   a ,  18   a , wherein the first and second inner longitudinal edges  42 ,  44  extend laterally outward from the central panel  24  between the second flap fold line  40  and an outer edge of the second body flap  28  defined at the second lateral edge  22 . Further, the first and second inner longitudinal edges  42 ,  44  extend laterally outward from a pair of second lateral side portions  22   a   1 ,  22   a   2  located on opposing longitudinal sides of the second body flap  28  and defining the second lateral side  22   a  of the central panel  24 . 
     The first and second body flaps  26 ,  28  are configured as foldable members to form respective first and second hollow beam bodies  46 ,  48  defining a hollow beam structure  50 , see  FIG. 3 . Referring to  FIG. 1 , the first body flap  26  comprises a first flap panel  52   a , a second flap panel  52   b , a third flap panel  52   c , and a fourth flap panel  52   d  connected in series at a first panel fold line  54   a , a second panel fold line  54   b , and a third panel fold line  54   c , respectively. The first, second, and third panel fold lines  54   a ,  54   b ,  54   c  may comprise crease rule fold lines. 
     The first flap fold line  30  is defined at a connection between the first flap panel  52   a  and the central panel  24 , wherein the first flap fold line  30  is located laterally spaced inward from the first lateral side portions  20   a   1 ,  20   a   2 . At least a portion of the flap fold line  30  can comprise a crease rule fold line. A pair of separation lines  60   a ,  60   b  extend laterally along the inner longitudinal edges  32 ,  34  from the first flap fold line  30  to the first lateral side portions  20   a   1 ,  20   a   2 , separating the first body flap  26  from the central panel  24  and permitting pivotal movement of the first body flap  26  within the central panel  24 . 
     The second body flap  28  comprises a first flap panel  56   a , a second flap panel  56   b , a third flap panel  56   c , and a fourth flap panel  56   d  connected in series at a first panel fold line  58   a , a second panel fold line  58   b , and a third panel fold line  58   c , respectively. The first, second, and third panel fold lines  58   a ,  58   b ,  58   c  may comprise crease rule fold lines. The second flap fold line  40  is defined at a connection between the first flap panel  56   a  and the central panel  24 , wherein the second flap fold line  40  is located laterally spaced inward from the second lateral side portions  22   a   1 ,  22   a   2 . At least a portion of the flap fold line  40  can comprise a crease rule fold line. A pair of separation lines  62   a ,  62   b  extend laterally along the inner longitudinal edges  42 ,  44  from the second flap fold line  40  to the second lateral side portions  22   a   1 ,  22   a   2 , separating the second body flap  28  from the central panel  24  and permitting pivotal movement of the second body flap  28  within the central panel  24 . 
     The term “separation line” as used herein may be defined, for example, by a perforated line, or a cut line that extends completely through the material, and may comprise a partial cut through at least one layer of the corrugated material or a cut line interrupted by short sections of bridging (uncut) material. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the blank  10  can be positioned into an erected configuration forming the first beam body  46  by pivoting the first flap panel  52   a  of the first body flap  26  upward about the first flap fold line  30  to position the first body flap  26  inwardly toward the lateral center of the central panel  24 , as depicted by arrow A 1 . The second, third, and fourth flap panels  52   b ,  52   c ,  52   d  are pivoted about the respective panel fold lines  54   a ,  54   b ,  54   c  to position the fourth flap panel  52   d  in parallel overlapping relation on the central panel  24  with the upper side  14  thereof facing the central panel  24 , wherein the outer edge defined by the first lateral edge  20  can be located adjacent to the first flap panel  52   a  at the lateral flap fold line  30 , see  FIG. 3 . It should be noted that the fourth flap panel  52   d  is joined or affixed to the central panel  24 , as is described in greater detail below 
     In the erected configuration, the first and third flap panels  52   a ,  52   c  define longitudinally extending opposing beam sides of the first beam body  46  that can extend outward from the central panel  24  transverse to a plane defined by the central panel  24 . The second flap panel  52   b  defines a connecting structure between edges of the beam sides, i.e., at the first and second panel fold lines  54   a ,  54   b , distal from the central panel  24 . In particular, in the illustrated erected configuration, the first and third flap panels  52   a ,  52   c  can extend generally perpendicular to the central panel  24 , and the second flap panel  52   b  can extend generally perpendicular to the first and third flap panels  52   a ,  52   c  in spaced relation to the central panel  24 . 
     Similar to the above description for erecting the first beam body  46 , the blank  10  can be positioned into an erected configuration forming the second beam body  48  by pivoting the first flap panel  56   a  of the second body flap  28  upward about the second flap fold line  40  to position the second body flap  28  inwardly toward the lateral center of the central panel  24 , as depicted by arrow A 2  in  FIG. 2 . The second, third, and fourth flap panels  56   b ,  56   c ,  56   d  are pivoted about the respective panel fold lines  58   a ,  58   b ,  58   c  to position the fourth flap panel  56   d  in parallel overlapping relation on the central panel  24  with the upper side  14  thereof facing the central panel  24 , wherein the outer edge defined by the second lateral edge  22  can be located adjacent to the first flap panel  56   a  at the lateral flap fold line  40 , see  FIG. 3 . It should be noted that the fourth flap panel  56   d  is joined or affixed to the central panel  24 , as is described in greater detail below 
     In the erected configuration, the first and third flap panels  56   a ,  56   c  define longitudinally extending opposing beam sides of the second beam body  48  that can extend outward from the central panel  24  transverse to the plane defined by the central panel  24 . The second flap panel  56   b  defines a connecting structure between edges of the beam sides, i.e., at the first and second panel fold lines  58   a ,  58   b , distal from the central panel  24 . In particular, in the illustrated erected configuration, the first and third flap panels  56   a ,  56   c  can extend generally perpendicular to the central panel  24 , and the second flap panel  56   b  can extend generally perpendicular to the first and third flap panels  56   a ,  56   c  in spaced relation to the central panel  24 . 
     Further, the first beam side of the first beam body  46 , defined by the first flap panel  52   a , can be spaced laterally inward from the first lateral side  20   a  defined by the first and second lateral side portions  20   a   1 ,  20   a   2 , such that a first pair of lateral extensions  64   a ,  64   b  are defined on the central panel  24 , see  FIGS. 1 and 3 . Similarly, the first beam side of the second beam body  48 , defined by the first flap panel  56   a , can be spaced laterally inward from the second lateral side  22   a  defined by the first and second lateral side portions  22   a   1 ,  22   a   2 , such that a second pair of lateral extensions  66   a ,  66   b  are defined on the central panel  24 . 
     The lateral extensions  64   a ,  66   a  comprise laterally opposing ends of a first support member  68   a  that extends longitudinally outward from first longitudinal ends of the first and second beam bodies  46 ,  48 , corresponding to the respective inner longitudinal edges  32 ,  42  of the body flaps  26 ,  28 . The lateral extensions  64   b ,  66   b  comprise laterally opposing ends of a second support member  68   b  that extends longitudinally outward from second longitudinal ends of the first and second beam bodies  46 ,  48 , corresponding to the respective inner longitudinal edges  34 ,  44  of the body flaps  26 ,  28 . Hence, the first and second longitudinal edges  32 ,  42  and  34 ,  44 , defining the ends of the beam bodies  46 ,  48 , are located longitudinally inward from the respective first and second longitudinal sides  16   a ,  18   a  of the central panel  24 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the blank  10  can include at least one pair of longitudinally spaced first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b  located at the inner longitudinal edges  32 ,  34  of the first body flap  26 . Similarly, the blank  10  includes at least one pair of longitudinally spaced first locking structures  72   a ,  72   b  located at the inner longitudinal edges  42 ,  44  of the second body flap  28 . Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the first body flap  26  can include a plurality of pairs of the spaced first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b , and the second body flap  28  can include a plurality of the pairs of spaced first locking structures  72   a ,  72   b.    
     The first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b ,  72   a ,  72   b  are substantially identical and are defined by cut-out portions of the blank  10  including a pair of rectangular notches  74  located on either side of a body tab structure  76 . The body tab structure  76  includes a tab outer end  76   a  that can be generally longitudinally aligned with a respective inner longitudinal edge  32 ,  34 ,  42 ,  44 , see  FIG. 5 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the blank  10  can include two pairs of second locking structures corresponding to the first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b ,  72   a ,  72   b  described above. In particular, the central panel  24  can comprise at least one pair of longitudinally spaced second locking structures  78   a ,  78   b  located adjacent or near to the first flap fold line  30 , and a second pair of longitudinally space second locking structures  80   a ,  80   b  located adjacent or near to the second flap fold line  40 . Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of pairs of the first and second pairs of spaced second locking structures  78   a ,  78   b  and  80   a ,  80   b  can be provided longitudinally aligned with corresponding pairs of the respective first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b  and  72   a ,  72   b.    
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , the second locking structures  78   a ,  78   b ,  80   a ,  80   b  are substantially identical and comprise a tongue  82  defined by a separation line  84  having a longitudinal front portion  84   a  and a pair of outer lateral portions  84   b  extending rearwardly from the front portion  84   a . A U-shaped separation line  86  defines a lock tab structure  98  and includes a longitudinal rear portion  86   a  and a pair of inner lateral portions  86   b  extending forwardly from the rear portion  86   a . Hinge separation lines  88  extend parallel to the inner lateral portions  86   b , and connector separation lines  90  extend laterally between the hinge separation line  88  and the outer lateral portions  84   b . A pair of hinge portions  92  are defined between pairs of the inner lateral portions  86   b  and the hinge separation lines  88 , wherein the hinge portions  92  are hingedly connected to the central panel  24  at a first hinge score line  94  and are hingedly connected to the tongue  82  at a second hinge score line  96 . 
     When the first and second beam bodies  46 ,  48  are erected, positioning the fourth flap panels  52   d ,  56   d  in overlapping engagement on the central panel  24 , the first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b ,  72   a ,  72   b  are located adjacent to rear portions of respective second locking structures  78   a ,  78   b ,  80   a ,  80   b . The tongue  82  can be pivoted upward and over an adjacent portion of a respective fourth flap panel  52   d ,  56   d , wherein the hinge portions  92  can extend generally perpendicular to the central panel  24  through the rectangular notches  74  to retain the fourth flap panels  52   d ,  56   d  against movement in the lateral direction. Further, pivoting of the tongue  82  into overlapping relation over the fourth flap panel  52   d ,  56   d  positions the lock tab structure  98  over the body tab structure  76  with the longitudinal rear portion  86   a  of the lock tab structure  98  generally aligned with the tab outer end  76   a  at a location longitudinally distal from the hinge portions  92 . Hence, upward movement of the tongue  82 , away from its locking position against the fourth flap panel  52   d ,  56   d , can be resisted by engagement of the lock tab structure  98  against the body tab structure  76 . 
     The erected pallet stabilizer  8  can be placed between two pallets P positioned, for example, in a trailer for shipping, see  FIG. 7 , thereby filling a space between the pallets P and limiting or preventing shifting of either one of the pallets P toward the other pallet P. In a use position, the pallet stabilizer  8  is oriented with the central panel  24  above the beam bodies  46 ,  48 , and with the beam bodies  46 ,  48  extending longitudinally between the two pallets P. The support members  68   a ,  68   b  can rest on upper surfaces S of the pallets P to vertically support the pallet stabilizer  8  with ends of the beam bodies  46 ,  48  positioned closely adjacent to a side of a respective pallet P. It may be noted that, since the elongated direction C of the flutes for the corrugated material extends in the longitudinal direction, the corrugated material is oriented to resist crushing in the longitudinal direction of the beam bodies  46 ,  48 . 
     The orientation of the elongated direction C of the flutes further can facilitate resistance to bending of the central panel  24  in the location where the support members  68   a ,  68   b  extend longitudinally from the beam bodies  46 ,  48 . However, it should also be understood that the present construction does not necessarily preclude a user from reconfiguring the pallet stabilizer  8 , such as by intentionally bending one of the support members  68   a ,  68   b  upward, i.e., perpendicular to the plane of the central panel  24 . For example, in a use of the pallet stabilizer  8  between a pallet and a trailer wall, one of the support members  68   a ,  68   b  could be bent perpendicular to the trailer wall (not shown) to permit one end of the beam bodies  46 ,  48  to be positioned against trailer wall, while the other of the support members  68   a ,  68   b  can remain parallel to the plane of the central panel  24  for supporting an opposing end of the pallet stabilizer  8  on an upper surface of a pallet. 
     In order to accommodate different loading configurations for placing the pallets in a trailer, and to accommodate different trailer widths, it may be necessary to provide different beam lengths to the beam bodies  46 ,  48  of the pallet stabilizer  8 . Hence, in accordance with an aspect of the present blank  10 , the blank  10  can be configured to provide one or more predetermined lengths for the beam bodies  46 ,  48 , to thereby position the longitudinal ends of the beam bodies  46 ,  48  closely adjacent to the sides of respective pallets P, or adjacent to a side of a trailer. The predetermined lengths for the beam bodies  46 ,  48  can be selected, for example, with reference to known, i.e., preestablished/conventional, trailer widths that, in combination with the pallets, can create predetermined spaces that can be filled with the pallet stabilizer  8 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 6 , the first body flap  26  can include one or more length score lines  32   a ,  32   b  and  34   a ,  34   b  extending parallel to the respective longitudinal edges  32 ,  34  and defining respective length sections  32   a ′,  32   b ′ and  34   a ′,  34   b ′. The one or more length score lines  32   a ,  32   b  and  34   a ,  34   b  can be longitudinally aligned with respective first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b . The edges of the first body flap  26  can folded, or alternatively torn off, at the length score lines  32   a ,  32   b  and  34   a ,  34   b  to shorten the beam length defined by the first body flap  26 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 6 , either or both of the length sections  32   a ′ and  34   a ′ can be folded about the respective length score lines  32   a ,  34   a  to overlap the adjacent length sections  32   b ′ and  34   b ′ prior to folding the first body flap  26  to form the first beam body  46 . It may be understood that folding the length sections  32   a ′ and  34   a ′ can expose respective first locking structures  70   a ,  70   b  for engagement with longitudinally aligned ones of the second locking structures  78   a ,  78   b  on the central panel  24 . Similarly, a shorter length for the first beam body  46  can be provided by folding the first body flap edge sections defined by the pair of length sections  32   a ′,  32   b ′ and the pair of length sections  34   a ′,  34   b ′ about the respective length score lines  32   b  and  34   b , positioning the pairs of length sections  32   a ′,  32   b ′ and  34   a ′,  34   b ′ inwardly in overlapping relationship on the first body flap  26  prior to folding the first body flap  26  to form the first beam body  46 . It should be noted that the portions  32   c ,  34   c  of the lateral flap fold line  30  adjacent to the ends of the length sections  32   a ′,  32   b ′,  34   a ′,  34   b ′ can be formed with perforations or through cuts sufficient to facilitate separation of the length sections  32   a ′,  32   b ′,  34   a ′,  34   b ′ from the central panel  24 , whereas the remainder of the flap fold line  30  may be formed as a crease rule fold line, i.e., a non-separating fold line. 
     The second body flap  28  may be formed with a construction for forming predetermined shortened lengths for the second beam body  48  similar to the construction described above for the first body flap  26 . In particular, the second body flap  28  can include one or more length score lines  42   a ,  42   b  and  44   a ,  44   b  extending parallel to the respective longitudinal edges  42 ,  44  and defining respective length sections  42   a ′,  42   b ′ and  44   a ′,  44   b ′. The edges of the second body flap  28  can folded, or alternatively torn off, at the length score lines  42   a ,  42   b  and  44   a ,  44   b  to shorten the beam length defined by the second body flap  28 , in the same manner as described above for forming an alternative length of the first beam body  46 . Further, the portions  42   c ,  44   c  of the lateral flap fold line  40  adjacent to the ends of the length sections  42   a ′,  42   b ′,  44   a ′,  44   b ′ can be formed with perforations or through cuts sufficient to facilitate separation of the length sections  42   a ′,  42   b ′,  44   a ′,  44   b ′ from the central panel  24 , whereas the remainder of the flap fold line  40  may be formed as a crease rule fold line, i.e., a non-separating fold line. 
     It may be noted that the length score lines  32   a ,  32   b ,  34   a ,  34   b  and  42   a ,  42   b ,  44   a ,  44   b , of the first and second body flaps  26 ,  28  can be formed as perforated lines extending fully or partially through the blank  10  for facilitating either folding or tearing, i.e. separating, the respective length sections  32   a ′,  32   b ′,  34   a ′,  34   b ′ and  42   a ′,  42   b ′,  44   a ′,  44   b′.    
     Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , an optional configuration for a pallet stabilizer  108  and associated blank  110  is illustrated. Generally, the optional pallet stabilizer  108  is half of the pallet stabilizer  8  described above, wherein elements of the present pallet stabilizer  108  and blank  110  corresponding to the pallet stabilizer  8  and blank  10  described above are labeled with the same reference numerals increased by 100. 
     The blank  110  for forming the pallet stabilizer  108  comprises a planar piece of material including first and second longitudinal edges, generally designated  116  and  118 , respectively, and including first and second lateral edges, generally designated  120  and  122 , respectively. The blank  110  further comprises a generally planar central panel  124  including a first outer longitudinal side  116   a  coinciding with the first longitudinal edge  116  of the blank  110 , an opposing second outer longitudinal side  118   a  coinciding with the second longitudinal edge  118  of the blank  110 , and opposing first and second lateral sides  120   a ,  122   a . The second lateral side  122   a  coincides with the second lateral edge  122  and generally extends as continuous edge or side from the first outer longitudinal side  116   a  to the second outer longitudinal side  118   a.    
     The blank  110  further comprises a body flap  126 . The body flap  126  is hingedly joined to the central panel  124  along a lateral flap fold line  130  extending generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides  116   a ,  118   a . The body flap  126  includes first and second inner longitudinal edges  132 ,  134  spaced inward from the respective first and second outer longitudinal sides  116   a ,  118   a , wherein the first and second inner longitudinal edges  132 ,  134  extend laterally outward from the central panel  124  between the first flap fold line  130  and an outer edge of the first body flap  126  defined at the first lateral edge  120 . Further, the first and second inner longitudinal edges  132 ,  134  extend laterally outward from a pair of lateral side portions  120   a   1 ,  120   a   2  defining the first lateral side  120   a  of the central panel  124  on opposing longitudinal sides of the body flap  126 . 
     The body flap  126  comprises a first flap panel  152   a , a second flap panel  152   b , a third flap panel  152   c , and a fourth flap panel  152   d  connected in series at a first panel fold line  154   a , a second panel fold line  154   b , and a third panel fold line  154   c , respectively. The first, second, and third panel fold lines  154   a ,  154   b ,  154   c  may comprise crease rule fold lines. 
     The flap fold line  130  is defined at a connection between the flap panel  152   a  and the central panel  124 , wherein the flap fold line  130  is located laterally spaced inward from the lateral side portions  120   a   1 ,  120   a   2 . At least a portion of the flap fold line  130  can comprise a crease rule fold line. A pair of separation lines  160   a ,  160   b  extend laterally along the inner longitudinal edges  132 ,  134  from the first flap fold line  130  to the lateral side portions  120   a   1 ,  120   a   2 , separating the body flap  126  from the central panel  124  and permitting pivotal movement of the body flap  126  within the central panel  124 . 
     The body flap  126  includes a pair of longitudinally spaced first locking structures  170   a ,  170   b , and the central panel  124  includes a pair of longitudinally spaced second locking structures  178   a ,  178   b  located for engagement with respective ones of the first locking structures  170   a ,  170   b . Further, plural pairs of first locking structures  170   a ,  170   b  and corresponding second locking structures  178   a ,  178   b  can be provided as described above to accommodate different longitudinal dimensions of the body flap  126  to form different lengths of a beam body  146  for the erected pallet stabilizer  108 . 
     A first support member  168   a  is defined extending longitudinally outward from a first longitudinal end of the beam body  146 , corresponding to the inner longitudinal edge  132  of the body flap  126 . A second support member  168   b  is defined extending longitudinally outward from a second longitudinal end of the beam body  146 , corresponding to the inner longitudinal edge  134  of the body flap  126 . 
     The body flap  126  can include one or more length score lines  132   a ,  132   b  and  134   a ,  134   b  extending parallel to the respective longitudinal edges  132 ,  134  and defining respective length sections  132   a ′,  132   b ′ and  134   a ′,  134   b ′. The edges of the body flap  126  can folded, or alternatively torn off, at the length score lines  132   a ,  132   b  and  134   a ,  134   b  to shorten the beam length defined by the body flap  126 . The longitudinal dimension of the body flap  126  can be selectively reduced by folding or tearing off the length sections  132   a ′,  132   b ′ and  134   a ′,  134   b ′ as described above for the blank  10 . The portions  132   c ,  134   c  of the lateral flap fold line  130  adjacent to the ends of the length sections  132   a ′,  132   b ′,  134   a ′,  134   b ′ can be formed with perforations or through cuts sufficient to facilitate separation of the length sections  132   a ′,  132   b ′,  134   a ′,  134   b ′ from the central panel  124 , whereas the remainder of the flap fold line  130  may be formed as a crease rule fold line, i.e., a non-separating fold line. 
     The body flap  126  can be folded as described above for the body flap  26  of the blank  10  to the form the beam body  146  of a hollow beam structure  150 , see  FIG. 9 . Further, the first and second locking structures  170   a ,  170   b  and  178   a ,  178   b  can cooperate with each other as described for the first and second locking structures  70   a ,  70   b  and  78   a ,  78   b  to retain the fourth flap panel  152   d  in place on the central panel  124  following folding of the body flap  126  to form the beam body  146 . It may be noted that the erected pallet stabilizer  108  includes lateral extensions  164   a ,  164   b  to one side of the beam body  146  and includes a laterally extending portion of the central panel  124  spaced outward from the other side of the beam body  146 , as defined along the continuous lateral side  122   a  of the central panel  124 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 10-13 , a further optional configuration for a pallet stabilizer  208  and associated blank  210  is illustrated, wherein elements of the present pallet stabilizer  208  and blank  210  corresponding to the pallet stabilizer  8  and blank  10 , described above with reference to  FIGS. 1-7 , are labeled with the same reference numerals increased by 200. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , the blank  210  for forming the pallet stabilizer  208  comprises a planar piece of material including first and second longitudinal edges, generally designated  216  and  218 , respectively, and further extends in a lateral direction L 2  between first and second lateral edges, generally designated  220  and  222 , respectively. The blank  210  further comprises a generally planar central panel  224  including a first outer longitudinal side  216   a  coinciding with the first longitudinal edge  216  of the blank  210 , an opposing second outer longitudinal side  218   a  coinciding with the second longitudinal edge  218  of the blank  210 , and opposing first and second lateral sides  220   a ,  222   a . It may be noted that the elongated direction C of the flutes for the corrugated material of the blank  210  is oriented to extend parallel to the longitudinal direction L 1 . 
     The blank  210  further comprises first and second body flaps  226 ,  228 . The first body flap  226  is hingedly joined to the central panel  224  along a lateral flap fold line  230  extending generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides  216   a ,  218   a . The first body flap  226  includes first and second inner longitudinal edges  232 ,  234  spaced inward from the respective first and second outer longitudinal sides  216   a ,  218   a , wherein the first and second inner longitudinal edges  232 ,  234  extend laterally outward from the central panel  224  between the first flap fold line  230  and an outer edge of the first body flap  226  defined at the first lateral edge  220 . Further, the first and second inner longitudinal edges  232 ,  234  extend laterally outward from a pair of first lateral side portions  220   a   1 ,  220   a   2  defining the first lateral side  220   a  of the central panel  224  on opposing longitudinal sides of the first body flap  226 . 
     The second body flap  228  is hingedly joined to the central panel  224  along a lateral flap fold line  240  extending generally transverse to the first and second outer longitudinal sides  216   a ,  218   a . The second body flap  228  includes first and second inner longitudinal edges  242 ,  244  spaced inward from the respective first and second outer longitudinal sides  216   a ,  218   a , wherein the first and second inner longitudinal edges  242 ,  244  extend laterally outward from the central panel  224  between the second flap fold line  240  and an outer edge of the second body flap  228  defined at the second lateral edge  222 . Further, the first and second inner longitudinal edges  242 ,  244  extend laterally outward from a pair of second lateral side portions  222   a   1 ,  222   a   2  located on opposing longitudinal sides of the second body flap  228  and defining the second lateral side  222   a  of the central panel  224 . 
     The first and second body flaps  226 ,  228  are configured as foldable members to form respective first and second hollow beam bodies  246 ,  248  defining a hollow beam structure  250 , see  FIG. 12 . Referring to  FIG. 10 , the first body flap  226  comprises a first flap panel  252   a , a second flap panel  252   b , a third flap panel  252   c , and a glue tab  252   d  connected in series at a first panel fold line  254   a , a second panel fold line  254   b , and a third panel fold line  254   c , respectively. The first, second, and third panel fold lines  254   a ,  254   b ,  254   c  may comprise crease rule fold lines. The glue tab  252   d  can be formed with a relatively short lateral dimension, i.e., relative to the lateral dimensions of the flap panels  252   a ,  252   b ,  252   c , and can form an attachment structure for attaching a laterally outer end of the third flap panel  252   c  to the central panel  224  when the body flap  226  is erected to form the beam body  246 , as discussed further below. 
     The first flap fold line  230  is defined at a connection between the first flap panel  252   a  and the central panel  224 , wherein the first flap fold line  230  is located laterally spaced inward from the first lateral side portions  220   a   1 ,  220   a   2 . At least a portion of the flap fold line  230  can comprise a crease rule fold line. A pair of separation lines  260   a ,  260   b  extend laterally along the inner longitudinal edges  232 ,  234  from the first flap fold line  230  to the first lateral side portions  220   a   1 ,  220   a   2 , separating the first body flap  226  from the central panel  224  and permitting pivotal movement of the first body flap  226  within the central panel  224 . 
     The first body flap  226  can also include one or more length score lines  232   a ,  232   b  and  234   a ,  234   b  extending parallel to the respective longitudinal edges  232 ,  234  and defining respective length sections  232   a ′,  232   b ′ and  234   a ′,  234   b ′. The edges of the body flap  226  can be folded, or alternatively torn off, at the length score lines  232   a ,  232   b  and  234   a ,  234   b  to shorten the beam length defined by the body flap  226 . The longitudinal dimension of the body flap  226  can be selectively reduced by folding or tearing off the length sections  232   a ′,  232   b ′ and  234   a ′,  234   b ′ as described above for the blank  10 . The portions  232   c ,  234   c  of the lateral flap fold line  230  adjacent to the ends of the length sections  232   a ′,  232   b ′,  234   a ′,  234   b ′ can be formed with perforations or through cuts sufficient to facilitate separation of the length sections  232   a ′,  232   b ′,  234   a ′,  234   b ′ from the central panel  224 , whereas the remainder of the flap fold line  230  may be formed as a crease rule fold line, i.e., a non-separating fold line. 
     It may be noted that the number and location of length score lines illustrated for the first body flap  226  is not limited to the particular length score lines  232   a ,  232   b ,  234   a ,  234   b  illustrated herein. For example, an additional length score line  232   d ,  234   d  may be provided subdividing each of the respective length sections  232   a ′,  234   a ′ into additional length sections  232   a   1 ′,  232   a   2 ′ and  234   a   1 ′,  234   a   2 ′, wherein the additional length score lines  232   d ,  234   d  can facilitate selection of a length for the beam  246  to fit within and provide support in a space between adjacent pallets and/or truck sides. Further it may be understood that additional length score lines (not shown) may be provided, such as to subdivide the length sections  232   b ′,  234   b ′, and the relative width of the length sections  232   a ′,  232   b ′,  234   a ′,  234   b ′ and  232   a   1 ′,  232   a   2 ′,  234   a   1 ′,  234   a   2 ′ can be different than is illustrated herein. 
     The first body flap  226  can further include a support structure comprising a first support flap  271  configured to extend between two opposing panels forming the first beam body  246 . In the illustrated embodiment, the support flap  271  is formed in the second flap panel  252   b  and is defined by opposing side separation lines  271   a ,  271   b  substantially aligned along the first and second panel fold lines  254   a ,  254   b , and an end separation line  271   c  extending between the side separation lines  271   a ,  271   b . A support flap fold line  271   d  can be defined opposite from the end separation line  271   c  extending between the side separation lines  271   a ,  271   b . In addition, a finger notch or slot  271   e  can be formed in the first support flap  271  adjacent to the end separation line  271   c . It may be understood that the first support flap  271  defines a width that is substantially the same as a width of the first beam body  246 , as defined between the first and third flap panels  252   a ,  252   c . Further, the first support flap  271  can comprise a length, extending from the end separation line  271   c  to the support flap fold line  271   d  that is greater than half the distance from the first panel fold line  254   a  to the first flap fold line  230  and/or half the distance from the second panel fold line  254   b  to the third panel fold line  254   c . Alternatively, the first support flap  271  can comprise a length that is shorter or longer than is depicted herein. 
     The second body flap  228  comprises a first flap panel  256   a , a second flap panel  256   b , a third flap panel  256   c , and a glue tab  256   d  connected in series at a first panel fold line  258   a , a second panel fold line  258   b , and a third panel fold line  258   c , respectively. The first, second, and third panel fold lines  258   a ,  258   b ,  258   c  may comprise crease rule fold lines. The glue tab  256   d  can be formed with a relatively short lateral dimension, i.e., relative to the lateral dimensions of the flap panels  256   a ,  256   b ,  256   c , and can form an attachment structure for attaching a laterally outer end of the third flap panel  256   c  to the central panel  224  when the body flap  228  is erected to form the beam body  248 , as discussed further below. 
     The second flap fold line  240  is defined at a connection between the first flap panel  256   a  and the central panel  224 , wherein the second flap fold line  240  is located laterally spaced inward from the second lateral side portions  222   a   1 ,  222   a   2 . At least a portion of the flap fold line  240  can comprise a crease rule fold line. A pair of separation lines  262   a ,  262   b  extend laterally along the inner longitudinal edges  242 ,  244  from the second flap fold line  240  to the second lateral side portions  222   a   1 ,  222   a   2 , separating the second body flap  228  from the central panel  224  and permitting pivotal movement of the second body flap  228  within the central panel  224 . 
     The second body flap  228  can also include one or more length score lines  242   a ,  242   b  and  244   a ,  244   b  extending parallel to the respective longitudinal edges  242 ,  244  and defining respective length sections  242   a ′,  242   b ′ and  244   a ′,  244   b ′. The edges of the body flap  228  can be folded, or alternatively torn off, at the length score lines  242   a ,  242   b  and  244   a ,  244   b  to shorten the beam length defined by the body flap  228 . The longitudinal dimension of the body flap  228  can be selectively reduced by folding or tearing off the length sections  242   a ′,  242   b ′ and  244   a ′,  244   b ′ as described above for the blank  10 . The portions  242   c ,  244   c  of the lateral flap fold line  240  adjacent to the ends of the length sections  242   a ′,  242   b ′,  244   a ′,  244   b ′ can be formed with perforations or through cuts sufficient to facilitate separation of the length sections  242   a ′,  242   b ′,  244   a ′,  244   b ′ from the central panel  224 , whereas the remainder of the flap fold line  240  may be formed as a crease rule fold line, i.e., a non-separating fold line. 
     It may be noted that the number and location of length score lines illustrated for the second body flap  228  is not limited to the particular length score lines  242   a ,  242   b ,  244   a ,  244   b  illustrated herein. For example, an additional length score line  242   d ,  244   d  may be provided subdividing each of the respective length sections  242   a ′,  244   a ′ into additional length sections  242   a   1 ′,  242   a   2 ′ and  244   a   1 ′,  244   a   2 ′, wherein the additional length score lines  242   d ,  244   d  can facilitate selection of a length for the beam  248  to fit within and provide support in a space between adjacent pallets and/or truck sides. Further it may be understood that additional length score lines (not shown) may be provided, such as to subdivide the length sections  242   b ′,  244   b ′. Also, the relative width of the length sections  242   a ′,  242   b ′,  244   a ′,  244   b ′ and  242   a   1 ′,  242   a   2 ′,  244   a   1 ′,  244   a   2 ′ can be different than is illustrated herein. 
     It may be noted that the length score lines  232   a ,  232   b ,  234   a ,  234   b  and  242   a ,  242   b ,  244   a ,  244   b , of the first and second body flaps  226 ,  228  can be formed as perforated lines extending fully or partially through the blank  210  for facilitating either folding or tearing, i.e. separating, the respective length sections  232   a ′,  232   b ′,  234   a ′,  234   b ′ and  242   a ′,  242   b ′,  244   a ′,  244   b ′. Similarly, the length score lines  232   d ,  234   d  and  242   d ,  244   d  can be formed as perforated lines extending fully or partially through the blank  210  for facilitating either folding or tearing, i.e. separating, the respective length sections  232   a   1 ′,  232   a   2 ′,  234   a   1 ′,  234   a   2 ′ and  242   a   1 ′,  242   a   2 ′,  244   a   2 ′. 
     The second body flap  228  can further include a support structure comprising a second support flap  273  configured to extend between two opposing panels forming the second beam body  248 . In the illustrated embodiment, the support flap  273  is formed in the second flap panel  256   b  and is defined by opposing side separation lines  273   a ,  273   b  substantially aligned along the first and second panel fold lines  258   a ,  258   b , and an end separation line  273   c  extending between the side separation lines  273   a ,  273   b . A support flap fold line  273   d  can be defined opposite from the end separation line  273   c  extending between the side separation lines  273   a ,  273   b . In addition, a finger notch or slot  273   e  can be formed in the second support flap  273  adjacent to the end separation line  273   c . It may be understood that the second support flap  273  defines a width that is substantially the same as a width of the second beam body  248 , as defined between the first and third flap panels  256   a ,  256   c . Further, the second support flap  273  can comprise a length, extending from the end separation line  273   c  to the support flap fold line  273   d  that is greater than half the distance from the first panel fold line  258   a  to the second flap fold line  240  and/or half the distance from the second panel fold line  258   b  to the third panel fold line  258   c . Alternatively, the second support flap  273  can comprise a length that is shorter or longer than is depicted herein. 
     The first, second, and third flap panels  252   a ,  252   b ,  252   c  and  256   a ,  256   b ,  256   c  of the respective body flaps  226  and  228  can generally be folded as described above for the body flaps  26 ,  28  of the blank  10  to form the beam bodies  246 ,  248  of the hollow beam structure  250 , see  FIGS. 12 and 13 . The glue tabs  252   d ,  256   d  can be attached, e.g., via glued joints between the glue tabs  252   d ,  256   d  and the central panel  224 , extending in overlapping relation parallel to the central panel  224 . In an erected configuration of the beam bodies  246 ,  248 , the glue tabs  252   d ,  256   d  can extend outwardly from the respective third panel flaps  252   c ,  256   c , i.e., extending toward each other and toward a lateral center of the central panel  224 . 
     In an exemplary use of the blank  210 , an outer portion of each of the body flaps  226 ,  228  located laterally outwardly from the respective first panel fold lines  254   a ,  258   a , i.e., the second and third panel flaps  252   b ,  252   c  and  256   b ,  256   c , can be folded inwardly toward the central panel  224 , overlapping the respective first panel flaps  252   a ,  256   a  and locating the glue tabs  252   d ,  256   d  at the locations on the central panel  224  shown in  FIG. 11 . The glue tabs  252   d ,  256   d  may be attached to the central panel  224  at a manufacturer&#39;s joint to define a knocked down or collapsed configuration that can be provided to a user. The user can erect the pallet stabilizer by pivoting the pairs of first and third panel flaps  252   a ,  252   c  and  256   a ,  256   c  parallel to each other and transverse, e.g., perpendicular, to the central panel  224  to form up each of the beam bodies  246 ,  248  into a parallelepiped configuration. The support flaps  271 ,  273  can be pivoted into the respective beam bodies  246 ,  248 , and positioned transverse, e.g., perpendicular, to the second panel flaps  252   b ,  256   b , as depicted in  FIGS. 12 and 13 . In the pivoted position, the support flaps  271 ,  273  can frictionally engage the opposing pairs of first and third panel flaps  252   a ,  252   c  and  256   a ,  256   c  to maintain the support flaps  271 ,  273  in position and provide lateral support to the beam bodies  246 ,  248 , substantially preventing or resisting the beam bodies  246 ,  248  from moving to the collapsed position. 
     The first beam side of the first beam body  246 , defined by the first flap panel  252   a , can be spaced laterally inward from the first lateral side  220   a  defined by the first and second lateral side portions  220   a   1 ,  220   a   2 , such that a first pair of lateral extensions  264   a ,  264   b  are defined on the central panel  224 , see  FIGS. 10 and 12 . Similarly, the first beam side of the second beam body  248 , defined by the first flap panel  256   a , can be spaced laterally inward from the second lateral side  222   a  defined by the first and second lateral side portions  222   a   1 ,  222   a   2 , such that a second pair of lateral extensions  266   a ,  266   b  are defined on the central panel  224 . 
     The lateral extensions  264   a ,  266   a  comprise laterally opposing ends of a first support member  268   a  that extends longitudinally outward from first longitudinal ends of the first and second beam bodies  246 ,  248 . The lateral extensions  264   b ,  266   b  comprise laterally opposing ends of a second support member  268   b  that extends longitudinally outward from second longitudinal ends of the first and second beam bodies  246 ,  248 . Hence, the ends of the beam bodies  246 ,  248  are located longitudinally inward from the respective first and second longitudinal sides  216   a ,  218   a  of the central panel  224 . 
     It should be understood that aspects of the pallet stabilizer  208  described with reference to  FIGS. 10-13  can be incorporated in a pallet stabilizer configuration formed from a blank having a single body flap, such as is described above for the pallet stabilizer  110  with reference to  FIGS. 8 and 9 . For example, the pallet stabilizer  208  may be constructed with a single beam body, e.g., beam body  246 , supported at a generally central lateral location on the central panel  224 , e.g., in a manner similar to the construction described for the pallet stabilizer  110  with reference to  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
     While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.