Our Story
In 2008, Marcus Rivera stood in a Portland landfill and watched perfectly reusable wood pallets being crushed and buried alongside household trash. That moment changed everything. Within weeks, he rented a small warehouse, hired two friends, and began pulling pallets out of the waste stream one truckload at a time.
What started as a scrappy three-person operation on Portland's east side has grown into one of the Pacific Northwest's most respected pallet companies. Today, Pallets Eco employs over 150 people, operates two state-of-the-art facilities, and processes more than 500,000 pallets every year across buying, selling, recycling, and transportation.
Our founding belief has never wavered: every pallet deserves a second life, and sustainability and profitability are not competing goals but complementary ones. That belief drives every decision we make, from the materials we source to the communities we serve.
16+
Years in Business
150+
Team Members
1M+
Pallets Recycled
5
States Served
From My Desk to Yours
When I started Pallets Eco in 2008, I did not have a business plan, a marketing strategy, or a line of credit. What I had was a conviction that the way our industry treated wood pallets was wasteful, short-sighted, and entirely fixable. I saw thousands of pallets being discarded every day in the Portland metro area alone, pallets that had years of useful life left in them. It struck me as a problem that was also an enormous opportunity.
Sixteen years later, I am proud to say that conviction has been validated a million times over, literally. We have recycled more than one million pallets, saved an estimated 17,000 trees, and built a company that over 150 families depend on for their livelihoods. We have done it without a single dollar of outside investor capital, without cutting corners on quality, and without ever losing sight of why we exist: to keep usable materials out of landfills and put them back to productive work.
But I would be dishonest if I said the journey has been easy. The early years were grueling. I drove the truck, repaired pallets, delivered orders, invoiced clients, and swept the warehouse floor, often in the same day. There were months when I questioned whether the business would survive. What kept me going was the tangible impact. Every pallet we saved from a landfill was proof that the model worked. Every new client who chose recycled pallets over new ones reinforced the idea that businesses are ready for sustainability when someone makes it practical and affordable.
Today, our vision extends far beyond Portland. We want to build the national model for circular pallet management, a system where no pallet ever reaches a landfill, where every piece of wood is repaired, reused, or converted into something valuable. We are investing in technology, expanding our geographic reach, and partnering with organizations that share our values. By 2030, I want Pallets Eco to process over one million pallets annually and help our clients collectively avoid 20,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year.
To our customers: thank you for trusting us with your supply chain. To our employees: you are the heart and soul of this company, and I am grateful for every one of you. To the pallet industry at large: the future is circular, and we are just getting started.
With gratitude,
Marcus Rivera
Founder & CEO, Pallets Eco
Our Journey
From a small Portland startup to a leading sustainable pallet company, here are the milestones that shaped who we are today. Each step forward reinforced our commitment to doing more with less.
Founded in Portland, Oregon
Marcus Rivera founded Pallets Eco in a modest 5,000 sq ft warehouse on the east side of Portland. With a three-person crew and a single flatbed truck, the company began by collecting discarded pallets from local manufacturers and refurbishing them for resale. The founding vision was simple yet revolutionary: prove that wood pallets never need to reach a landfill.
First Major Corporate Client
After a year of grassroots outreach, Pallets Eco secured its first contract with a regional grocery distribution chain, supplying 5,000 refurbished pallets per month. This partnership validated the business model and demonstrated that large enterprises were ready to embrace sustainable pallet sourcing as a core part of their supply chain strategy.
Hired First Dedicated Repair Crew
With demand growing faster than anticipated, Pallets Eco hired its first dedicated pallet repair crew of eight skilled carpenters. The crew introduced standardized repair procedures that improved consistency and allowed the company to handle over 8,000 pallets per month. This was also the year Robert Jackson joined as a floor supervisor, eventually rising to Recycling Operations Lead.
Moved to 27 Artley Rd
Growing demand required a bigger home. Pallets Eco relocated to its current headquarters at 27 Artley Rd in Savannah, a 40,000 sq ft facility with dedicated zones for inspection, repair, recycling, and inventory staging. The new space tripled processing capacity overnight and allowed the team to invest in automated sorting equipment.
Scaled Recycling to 200K Pallets Annually
With improved infrastructure and a growing workforce, recycling operations hit the 200,000 pallets-per-year mark. This milestone meant thousands of tons of wood diverted from Pacific Northwest landfills each year. Pallets Eco also introduced its mulch and biomass byproduct program, turning non-repairable wood into valuable secondary products.
Launched Quality Grading System
Pallets Eco formalized its proprietary three-tier grading system (Grade A, B, and C) for all refurbished pallets. Angela Nguyen was brought on board to develop and implement the grading rubric, establishing a multi-point inspection process that became the gold standard in the regional pallet industry. Customer satisfaction scores rose dramatically as buyers gained confidence in consistent grading.
Launched Heat Treatment (ISPM 15) Program
Responding to client demand for export-compliant pallets, the company invested in a certified heat treatment kiln. The ISPM 15 stamp allowed customers to ship internationally without phytosanitary concerns, opening new markets for Pallets Eco and broadening the range of industries served, from food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and electronics.
Launched In-House Transportation Fleet
Rather than relying on third-party carriers, Pallets Eco invested in its own fleet of fuel-efficient trucks. Starting with five vehicles, the fleet allowed for tighter delivery schedules, lower costs, and guaranteed pickup and delivery windows across Oregon and Southern Washington. Within a year the fleet expanded to twelve vehicles.
Reached 100 Employees
What started as a three-person operation grew to 100 full-time employees, including skilled carpenters, logistics coordinators, quality inspectors, and sustainability analysts. The company launched its employee development program, offering tuition reimbursement, safety certifications, and a clear career advancement path for every team member.
Launched Portland Youth Trades Program
Pallets Eco partnered with local high schools and Portland Community College to launch its youth trades apprenticeship program. The initiative offered paid summer internships in woodworking, logistics, and sustainability to underserved youth in the Portland metro area. The first cohort of 12 apprentices included students who would later join the company full-time.
Achieved Carbon-Neutral Certification
Through a combination of rooftop solar panels, fleet electrification, methane-capture biomass processing, and verified carbon offsets, Pallets Eco became one of the first pallet companies in the United States to achieve independently audited carbon-neutral certification. The milestone was covered by The Oregonian and drew national industry attention.
Expanded Service to Five Western States
With a proven operational model and a fleet of 20+ vehicles, the company extended regular service coverage to Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado, and parts of Idaho and Nevada. Strategic partnerships with regional carriers also enabled one-off deliveries nationwide, solidifying Pallets Eco as a West Coast sustainability leader.
Achieved Zero-Waste-to-Landfill at Portland HQ
Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, Pallets Eco reached a landmark environmental milestone: zero waste to landfill at its primary Portland facility. Every scrap of wood, metal, cardboard, and plastic generated on-site was reused, recycled, or converted to energy. The company also implemented pandemic safety protocols that kept the workforce healthy without a single operational shutdown.
Surpassed 1 Million Pallets Recycled
A landmark achievement: Pallets Eco crossed the one-million-pallets-recycled milestone. Independent analysis estimated that this effort saved approximately 17,000 trees, prevented over 5,000 tons of CO2 emissions, and diverted roughly 12,000 tons of wood waste from landfills. The company hosted a community celebration at its Portland facility.
Introduced Custom Pallet Design Studio
Recognizing that one size does not fit all, Pallets Eco opened a dedicated design studio within its facility. Equipped with CAD software and rapid prototyping capabilities, the studio enables clients to collaborate with engineers on custom pallet dimensions, load-bearing specifications, and material blends tailored to unique product requirements.
Won National Green Logistics Award
The Sustainable Supply Chain Council recognized Pallets Eco with its annual Green Logistics Award for excellence in waste reduction, circular economy innovation, and measurable environmental impact. The award committee highlighted the company's comprehensive approach that spans buying, selling, recycling, and transporting pallets under one eco-conscious roof.
Opened Second Processing Facility
To meet surging demand, Pallets Eco opened a second 55,000 sq ft processing facility, doubling total capacity. The new site features state-of-the-art automated pallet grading lines, an expanded heat treatment kiln, and an on-site biomass-to-energy converter that powers the building. Combined capacity now exceeds 500,000 pallets per year.
Portland HQ Office Tour
We welcome facility tours by appointment. Here is what you will see when you visit our 40,000 sq ft Savannah headquarters at 27 Artley Rd. Tours typically last 45 to 60 minutes and are led by a senior team member.
Reception & Welcome Center
Your tour begins in our bright, modern reception area. The lobby features a living wall of native Oregon plants, a timeline mural tracing our history from 2008 to today, and a display case showcasing awards and certifications. Our front desk team will check you in, provide a visitor badge, and offer complimentary coffee or tea before your guide arrives.
Operations Floor
The heart of our facility is the 15,000 sq ft operations floor where pallets are inspected, graded, and repaired. You will see our automated sorting conveyor, where pallets are fed through optical sensors that detect cracks, warping, and dimensional deviations. Skilled carpenters work at repair stations, replacing damaged boards and reinforcing stringers with pneumatic nailers. The floor processes up to 2,000 pallets per shift.
Recycling Yard
Adjacent to the main building, our outdoor recycling yard covers over 10,000 sq ft. Here, pallets that cannot be economically repaired are dismantled by our recycling crew. Usable boards are sorted and stacked for repair stock. Remaining wood is fed into our industrial chipper, producing mulch and biomass fuel. Metal fasteners are magnetically separated and collected for scrap recycling. The yard processes an average of 500 pallets per day.
Quality Lab
Our on-site quality lab is where science meets craftsmanship. The lab is equipped with a pin-type moisture meter and a resistance-style deep probe for measuring internal moisture content of wood, ensuring pallets meet specifications for both domestic and export use. A hydraulic load testing rig applies static and dynamic loads to sample pallets, verifying they meet rated capacities with safety margins. The lab runs tests on every production batch.
Fleet Garage & Charging Station
Our fleet garage houses 25+ vehicles including flatbed trucks, box trucks, and tractor-trailers. You will see our maintenance bay where vehicles receive regular inspections and preventive maintenance. The garage also features a bank of Level 2 and DC fast chargers for our six electric trucks and ten hybrid vehicles. A route planning command center with live GPS tracking screens shows the real-time location of every vehicle in the fleet.
Training Center & Design Studio
The second floor of our headquarters houses a dedicated training center with a 40-seat classroom, safety simulation equipment, and hands-on workstations for new employee onboarding. Next door is the Custom Pallet Design Studio where Elena Martinez and her engineering team use CAD workstations and a rapid prototyping bench to design and test custom pallets. Clients are welcome to sit in on collaborative design sessions during tours.
Want to schedule a tour? Email us or visit the contact page.
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
At Pallets Eco, our mission is to transform the pallet industry through sustainable practices that benefit both businesses and the planet. We are dedicated to reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and providing high-quality pallet solutions that support the circular economy.
We envision a future where no pallet ends up in a landfill. By offering comprehensive buying, selling, recycling, and transportation services under one roof, we make it easy for businesses to participate in a greener supply chain without sacrificing quality or reliability.
Every pallet we handle represents an opportunity to make a positive environmental impact. Whether we are refurbishing a used pallet, sourcing new sustainable materials, or optimizing a customer's logistics, we approach every task with purpose and care.
Our Vision
We see a world where the pallet industry operates as a fully closed loop, where wood, plastic, and metal pallets circulate indefinitely through repair, refurbishment, and recycling rather than flowing from forest to factory to landfill. Our vision is to lead that transformation nationwide.
By 2030, we aim to process over one million pallets annually, expand our service footprint to 15 states, and help our clients collectively avoid 20,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year. We believe that the pallet industry can become a net-positive force for the environment.
Achieving this vision requires collaboration. We are actively building partnerships with manufacturers, retailers, waste haulers, and policymakers to create the infrastructure and incentives that make circular pallet management the default, not the exception.
Our Core Values
These six principles guide every decision, from the warehouse floor to the boardroom.
Sustainability
Every decision we make is guided by our commitment to reducing waste and protecting the environment for future generations. We measure every project against its carbon footprint and resource consumption. From the wood we source to the fuel in our trucks, sustainability is not an afterthought but the starting point.
Quality
We maintain rigorous quality standards across all our products and services, ensuring every pallet meets or exceeds industry requirements. Our multi-point inspection process catches defects before pallets leave our facility. We stand behind every product with clear grading, documentation, and a satisfaction guarantee.
Innovation
We continuously invest in new technologies and processes to improve efficiency, reduce our environmental footprint, and deliver better solutions. From automated pallet grading lines to biomass-to-energy converters, we adopt tools that move the industry forward. Innovation keeps us competitive and keeps our customers ahead.
Community
We believe in building strong relationships with local businesses, supporting our workforce, and contributing positively to our Portland community. We hire locally, donate to neighborhood programs, and volunteer as a team throughout the year. Our success is inseparable from the health of the communities where we operate.
Integrity
Transparent pricing, honest grading, and straightforward communication define how we do business. We never oversell the condition of a pallet or bury fees in fine print. Our clients trust us because we deliver exactly what we promise, every single time, and own our mistakes when they happen.
Safety
The well-being of our employees, partners, and customers is non-negotiable. We maintain rigorous workplace safety protocols, conduct weekly training sessions, and invest in protective equipment and ergonomic tools. Our incident rate is well below the industry average, and we aim to keep it that way through continuous vigilance.
Our Technology
We invest heavily in technology that improves quality, accelerates throughput, and reduces waste. Here is the equipment and software powering our operations.
Proprietary Inventory Management System
Our in-house-built inventory management platform tracks every pallet from intake to sale or recycling. Each pallet batch is assigned a unique barcode at arrival, scanned at every processing stage (inspection, grading, repair, heat treatment, and staging), and linked to a customer order upon shipment. The system provides real-time inventory counts by type, grade, size, and location across both facilities, enabling our sales team to confirm availability instantly and our operations team to optimize production scheduling. The platform processes over 2,000 scan events per day and maintains a 99.8% inventory accuracy rate.
Automated Sorting & Grading Line
Our primary sorting conveyor uses optical sensors and dimensional laser gauges to assess incoming pallets at a rate of 120 pallets per hour. The system measures length, width, and height to verify dimensional compliance, detects cracks and broken boards using high-resolution cameras, and flags pallets with excessive moisture using inline capacitance sensors. Pallets are automatically routed to one of four output lanes: Grade A (direct resale), Grade B (minor repair), Grade C (economy), or Recycle (dismantle). The automated line has reduced manual sorting labor by 60% and improved grading consistency to over 98%.
Moisture Testing Equipment
Moisture content is critical for pallet quality, especially for food-grade and export applications. Our quality lab operates two types of moisture meters: pin-type meters for surface readings and resistance-style deep probes that measure moisture at the core of thick stringers. We test samples from every incoming and outgoing batch to ensure wood moisture stays within the 12% to 19% range recommended by the NWPCA. Pallets exceeding acceptable moisture levels are air-dried in our covered staging area before being approved for sale. Detailed moisture records are maintained for traceability and compliance with ISPM 15 heat treatment verification.
Load Testing Rigs
Every custom pallet design and every new batch of standard pallets is tested on our hydraulic load testing rig before approval. The rig simulates static loads (pallets sitting on a warehouse floor), dynamic loads (pallets being moved by forklifts), and racking loads (pallets supported only at the edges on warehouse racking). We test to failure to determine ultimate capacity and verify that operational ratings include appropriate safety margins, typically 3:1 for static and 2:1 for dynamic loads. Test results are documented and shared with clients upon request. The rig can apply up to 20,000 pounds of force and records load-deflection data in real time.
GPS Fleet Tracking & Route Optimization
Every vehicle in our 25-truck fleet is equipped with GPS tracking that updates location data every 30 seconds. Our logistics team uses route optimization software that factors in delivery windows, traffic patterns, vehicle capacity, and fuel efficiency to plan the most efficient daily routes. The system has reduced average delivery miles per order by 18% since implementation, saving fuel and cutting emissions. Clients can receive estimated arrival windows and real-time updates on their deliveries. We are currently building a self-service client portal for on-demand tracking.
Biomass-to-Energy Converter
Installed at our second processing facility in 2024, our biomass-to-energy converter transforms non-repairable wood waste into electricity and heat. The system uses a controlled gasification process that converts wood chips into syngas, which drives a generator producing up to 150 kW of power. This supplies approximately 30% of the facility's electricity needs and significantly reduces the amount of waste wood that would otherwise require external disposal. Emissions from the converter are filtered through a multi-stage scrubber system and meet all Oregon DEQ air quality standards.
Our Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated professionals who lead Pallets Eco with passion, expertise, and a shared commitment to sustainability. Together, they bring over 120 years of combined experience in logistics, engineering, environmental science, technology, and business management.
Marcus Rivera
Founder & CEO
With over 20 years in the logistics and materials-handling industry, Marcus founded Pallets Eco in 2008 to prove that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. He holds an MBA from Portland State University and previously managed supply chain operations for a Fortune 500 retailer. Marcus sets the company vision, oversees strategic growth, and serves on the board of the Oregon Sustainable Business Network. He is a frequent speaker at sustainability conferences and has been featured in The Oregonian, Portland Business Journal, and Supply Chain Management Review.
Expertise
Strategic Leadership, Supply Chain, Business Development
Sarah Kim
Director of Operations
Sarah oversees day-to-day operations across both processing facilities, managing a team of 80+ floor staff and supervisors. Her background includes a decade of supply chain management at a national logistics firm and a Six Sigma Black Belt certification. Sarah implemented the automated pallet grading system that increased throughput by 35% and reduced inspection errors to near zero. She also led the pandemic response plan in 2020 that kept all employees safe while maintaining full production capacity throughout the crisis.
Expertise
Operations Management, Six Sigma, Process Optimization
James Torres
Head of Sustainability
James drives all environmental initiatives, carbon-neutral strategy, and regulatory compliance at Pallets Eco. He holds a Master's in Environmental Science from Oregon State University and spent five years at the EPA before joining the team. James oversees lifecycle assessments, manages the company's certified carbon offset portfolio, and authors the annual sustainability report shared with clients and stakeholders. He also serves as the liaison with the Climate Action Registry for annual carbon-neutral recertification and manages relationships with environmental nonprofits.
Expertise
Environmental Science, Carbon Accounting, Regulatory Compliance
Lisa Patel
VP of Sales & Partnerships
Lisa builds and maintains relationships with over 500 business clients, from local craft breweries to Fortune 1000 manufacturers. She focuses on creating tailored pallet programs that align with each customer's budget, volume, and sustainability goals. Lisa holds a Bachelor's in Marketing from the University of Washington and brings 12 years of B2B sales experience to the team. Under her leadership, revenue from recurring accounts has grown 40% year-over-year, and client retention rates exceed 94%.
Expertise
B2B Sales, Account Management, Strategic Partnerships
David Chen
Fleet & Logistics Manager
David manages the company's fleet of 25 vehicles and coordinates all pickup and delivery operations across five states. He leverages route optimization software and real-time GPS tracking to minimize fuel consumption while maximizing on-time delivery rates above 97%. Before Pallets Eco, David spent eight years as a logistics coordinator for a Pacific Northwest freight company. He spearheaded the transition to hybrid and electric vehicles in the fleet, reducing fuel costs by 22% since 2019.
Expertise
Fleet Management, Route Optimization, CDL Operations
Angela Nguyen
Quality Assurance Manager
Angela leads the quality assurance team, overseeing the multi-point inspection process that every pallet passes through before leaving the facility. She developed the proprietary grading rubric used for all refurbished pallets and ensures ISPM 15 compliance for heat-treated export products. Angela holds a degree in Industrial Engineering from Cal Poly and brings seven years of QA experience. She also manages the quality lab, where moisture testing and load testing are performed on sample batches every week.
Expertise
Quality Control, ISPM 15, Industrial Engineering
Robert Jackson
Recycling Operations Lead
Robert oversees the entire recycling pipeline, from pallet intake and sorting through dismantling, wood chipping, and byproduct distribution. He manages a crew of 30 skilled workers and coordinates with mulch distributors, biomass energy facilities, and scrap metal recyclers. Robert is a certified Waste Management Professional and has been with Pallets Eco since 2010. He played a key role in achieving zero-waste-to-landfill status at the Portland facility and continues to optimize the recycling pipeline for maximum material recovery.
Expertise
Waste Management, Recycling Processes, Team Leadership
Elena Martinez
Custom Solutions Engineer
Elena runs the Custom Pallet Design Studio, working directly with clients to engineer pallets for specialized applications. She uses CAD modeling and structural analysis to design pallets that meet exact load-bearing, dimensional, and material specifications. Elena holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Oregon and previously designed packaging solutions for a major electronics manufacturer. She has designed over 200 unique pallet configurations since joining the team and holds two pending patents for innovative pallet joint designs.
Expertise
CAD Design, Structural Engineering, Rapid Prototyping
Tyler Washington
Finance & Administration Director
Tyler manages all financial operations including budgeting, accounts receivable, vendor payments, and payroll for 150+ employees. He also oversees HR administration, benefits programs, and compliance with federal and state labor regulations. Tyler is a CPA with 15 years of experience in manufacturing finance and joined Pallets Eco in 2016 to help scale the company through its rapid growth phase. He implemented the financial controls and reporting systems that support the company's transparent pricing model and annual revenue exceeding $45 million.
Expertise
Financial Management, HR Administration, Compliance
Karen O'Brien
Marketing & Community Manager
Karen leads all marketing efforts, brand communications, and community engagement programs. She manages the company website, social media channels, press relationships, and sponsorship programs. Karen holds a Communications degree from Lewis & Clark College and spent six years at a Portland-based sustainability nonprofit before joining Pallets Eco in 2019. She has grown the company's social media following by 300% and secured coverage in major regional and national publications including Oregon Business Magazine and GreenBiz.
Expertise
Brand Strategy, Community Outreach, Content Marketing
Priya Mehta
Safety & Compliance Officer
Priya joined Pallets Eco in 2020 to formalize and elevate the company's safety program. She holds a Master's in Occupational Health and Safety from the University of Washington and is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP). Priya oversees OSHA compliance, conducts weekly safety audits, manages incident reporting, and leads the safety training curriculum for all employees. Under her leadership, the company achieved its OSHA VPP Star Worksite designation and has maintained zero major incidents for over five consecutive years.
Expertise
OSHA Compliance, Risk Assessment, Safety Training
Carlos Ramirez
IT & Systems Manager
Carlos manages all technology infrastructure at Pallets Eco, including the proprietary inventory management system, barcode scanning hardware, the customer portal, GPS fleet tracking, and internal communications platforms. He holds a Computer Science degree from Oregon Institute of Technology and previously worked as a systems engineer at a Portland logistics software startup. Carlos built the real-time inventory dashboard that allows the sales team to check pallet availability instantly and is currently developing the client-facing tracking portal.
Expertise
Systems Architecture, Inventory Software, Fleet Technology
Financial Transparency
We believe our clients, employees, and community deserve to understand how we run our business financially. Unlike many companies in our industry, Pallets Eco has never taken outside investment. Every dollar of growth has been earned through hard work, reinvested with care, and directed toward our mission.
Revenue Growth
100% Bootstrapped
Pallets Eco has never raised venture capital, private equity, or any form of external investment. Marcus Rivera funded the company from personal savings in 2008, and every dollar of growth since then has come from revenue. This means we have zero investor pressure to prioritize short-term profits over long-term sustainability. Every financial decision is made with our employees, customers, and environmental mission in mind, not quarterly returns for outside stakeholders.
Reinvestment in Sustainability
Each year, we reinvest a minimum of 12% of net revenue directly into sustainability initiatives. This includes solar panel installations, fleet electrification, the biomass-to-energy converter, carbon offset purchases, the Trees for Tomorrow tree planting program, and employee sustainability training. In 2024 alone, our sustainability reinvestment totaled over $2.4 million. We publish these figures in our annual sustainability report, which is available to any client or stakeholder upon request.
Where the Money Goes
Of our annual revenue, approximately 45% goes to employee wages and benefits, 20% to raw materials and supplies, 15% to fleet operations and logistics, 12% to sustainability reinvestment, and 8% to overhead, technology, and administration. We maintain healthy cash reserves to weather economic downturns without layoffs, a commitment we upheld through the challenges of 2020 when we retained 100% of our workforce.
Supply Chain Philosophy
The quality of our output depends on the quality of our input. We take supply chain relationships seriously and treat every vendor, supplier, and partner as an extension of our own team.
Vendor Partnerships
We maintain long-term relationships with over 200 pallet suppliers across the Pacific Northwest, including manufacturers, warehouses, distribution centers, and retail chains. We do not treat vendors as transactional contacts. Instead, we negotiate fair buyback prices, offer flexible pickup scheduling, and provide recycling certificates that help our vendors meet their own sustainability goals. Many of our vendor relationships are over five years old, and several date back to our founding year.
Quality Source Material
Not all used pallets are created equal, and we are selective about what enters our facility. Our purchasing team evaluates potential pallet sources based on wood species, average condition, contamination risk, and consistency of supply. We prefer hardwood species like oak and maple for their durability and load-bearing properties, but we also process softwoods like pine and spruce for applications where lighter weight is preferred. Every incoming load is inspected before acceptance, and we maintain detailed records of source quality by vendor.
New Lumber Sourcing
For new pallet manufacturing and repair stock, we source lumber exclusively from FSC-certified or equivalent sustainably managed forests. Our primary lumber suppliers are based in Oregon and Washington, keeping transportation distances short and supporting the regional forestry economy. We verify chain of custody documentation for every lumber purchase and can provide FSC certification to clients who require it for their own supply chain compliance.
Hardware & Fastener Suppliers
The nails, screws, and brackets used in pallet repair and manufacturing come from domestic suppliers who meet our specifications for material grade, corrosion resistance, and pull-out strength. We test fastener samples from every new batch and maintain approved supplier lists that are reviewed annually. Using high-quality fasteners is essential for pallet structural integrity and directly impacts the safety and performance of our products.
Third-Party Carrier Vetting
For deliveries outside our fleet coverage area, we partner with a vetted network of regional carriers. Each carrier undergoes a qualification process that includes insurance verification, safety record review, on-time performance history, and environmental practices assessment. We require all carrier partners to maintain a minimum CSA safety rating and carry $1 million in cargo insurance. We monitor carrier performance quarterly and replace underperforming partners proactively.
Ethical Procurement Policy
We maintain a written ethical procurement policy that prohibits doing business with suppliers who use child labor, violate environmental regulations, or engage in discriminatory practices. Our purchasing team conducts annual supplier reviews that include compliance checks against our ethical standards. We believe that sustainability starts at the very beginning of the supply chain, and we are committed to ensuring that every material we purchase is sourced responsibly.
Safety Record
Safety is embedded in every aspect of our operations. Our record speaks for itself: zero major incidents in over five consecutive years, an OSHA VPP Star designation, and an incident rate 60% below the industry average.
0
Major Incidents (5 Years)
60%
Below Industry Incident Rate
4,800+
Safety Training Hours/Year
100%
OSHA VPP Compliance
OSHA VPP Star Worksite
Our Portland headquarters holds the OSHA Voluntary Protection Program Star designation, the highest level of recognition for workplace safety and health excellence. This designation requires demonstrated management commitment, employee involvement, worksite analysis, hazard prevention, and safety training that exceeds OSHA standards. We undergo periodic OSHA evaluations and have maintained Star status since 2021.
Weekly Safety Briefings
Every Monday morning begins with a 15-minute safety briefing for all floor staff. Briefings cover incident reports from the previous week (if any), seasonal hazard awareness (heat stress in summer, ice in winter), equipment maintenance updates, and refreshers on proper lifting, forklift operation, and personal protective equipment usage. Attendance is mandatory and tracked for compliance.
Annual Training Hours
Each employee receives a minimum of 32 hours of safety training annually, totaling over 4,800 hours company-wide. Training includes forklift certification, fire extinguisher use, hazardous material handling, first aid and CPR, lockout/tagout procedures, and emergency evacuation drills. New employees complete 16 hours of safety onboarding before they are permitted on the operations floor.
Incident Reporting & Near-Miss Program
We maintain a confidential incident and near-miss reporting system that encourages employees to report safety concerns without fear of retaliation. Every report is reviewed by our Safety & Compliance Officer within 24 hours, and corrective actions are implemented within 72 hours. Near-miss reports are analyzed monthly for trends, and the data drives improvements to our processes, equipment, and training programs.
Personal Protective Equipment
All floor and yard employees are provided with high-visibility vests, steel-toe boots, cut-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection at no cost. Equipment is replaced on a scheduled basis or immediately upon wear. Specialized PPE, including respirators for wood dust and fall protection harnesses for elevated work, is available for specific tasks. PPE compliance is monitored daily by shift supervisors.
Emergency Preparedness
We conduct quarterly emergency evacuation drills, maintain fully stocked first aid stations at six locations throughout the facility, and have eight trained first responders on staff at all times during operating hours. Our emergency action plan is posted at every exit and reviewed annually with input from the local fire department. AED defibrillators are installed at both the main office and the operations floor.
Diversity & Inclusion
A diverse workforce is a stronger workforce. We are committed to building a team that reflects the rich diversity of the Portland community and the broader Pacific Northwest.
Workforce Demographics
Inclusive Hiring Practices
We use structured interviews, blind resume reviews, and diverse hiring panels to reduce bias in our recruiting process. We post open positions with community organizations serving underrepresented groups, partner with Portland-area refugee resettlement agencies, and attend job fairs at community colleges and vocational schools. We do not require a college degree for the majority of our positions, and we evaluate candidates based on skills, work ethic, and willingness to learn.
Language Programs
With eight languages spoken across our workforce, clear communication is essential. We provide free workplace English classes twice a week for employees who want to improve their English skills, and all critical safety signage, training materials, and employee handbooks are available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Bilingual team leads serve as bridges between language groups on the operations floor, and we provide translation support for HR meetings and benefits enrollment.
Community Outreach
Our diversity efforts extend beyond our own walls. We sponsor the annual Portland Diversity in Trades Fair, donate to scholarships at Portland Community College for students from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing trades certifications, and mentor young adults through our Portland Youth Trades Program. We also partner with organizations like Worksource Oregon and Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO) to create pathways to employment for new Americans.
Research & Development
Innovation does not happen by accident. We dedicate resources, time, and talent to researching new pallet designs, testing advanced materials, and partnering with academic institutions to push the boundaries of what sustainable pallet solutions can achieve.
Pallet Design Innovations
Our Custom Solutions Engineer, Elena Martinez, leads ongoing R&D into next-generation pallet designs. Current projects include a lightweight hybrid pallet that combines recycled wood with reinforced composite stringers, reducing weight by 25% without sacrificing load capacity. We are also developing a nestable wood pallet design that reduces empty return shipping volume by 40%, lowering transportation costs and emissions for clients with high-volume reverse logistics. All new designs undergo extensive load testing and field trials before commercial release.
Material Testing Lab
Our quality lab doubles as a material testing facility where we evaluate new wood species, composite materials, coatings, and fastener types for potential use in pallet construction. We test material properties including density, hardness, moisture absorption, nail withdrawal resistance, and resistance to fungal decay. Results are compiled into an internal materials database that informs design decisions and helps our engineering team select the optimal materials for every custom project. We test over 50 material samples per quarter.
University Partnerships
We maintain active research partnerships with Oregon State University's College of Forestry and the University of Oregon's Department of Mechanical Engineering. OSU students have conducted three studies on our behalf examining optimal wood treatment methods for extending pallet lifespan, the environmental lifecycle impact of recycled versus new pallets, and the feasibility of biochar production from pallet wood waste. UO engineering students participate in a senior capstone program where they design and prototype innovative pallet solutions using our facility and materials.
Patents & Intellectual Property
Elena Martinez currently has two patent applications pending with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The first covers a novel interlocking joint design for pallet stringers that eliminates the need for metal fasteners in certain low-load applications, reducing material cost and improving recyclability. The second covers a modular pallet system where standardized deck sections can be swapped out individually when damaged, extending overall pallet lifespan by an estimated 50%. Both designs are in field-trial testing with select clients and are expected to enter commercial production in 2025.
Our Culture
We are builders, problem-solvers, and environmental stewards. Working at Pallets Eco means joining a team that takes pride in honest work, supports each other like family, and knows that what we do every day makes the planet a little healthier.
Purpose-Driven Work
Every employee understands how their role contributes to our mission. Whether you are operating a forklift, designing a custom pallet, or managing a client account, your work directly prevents waste and protects natural resources. That sense of purpose is something our team values deeply.
Safety First, Always
Our OSHA VPP Star designation is not just a plaque on the wall. We hold weekly safety briefings, invest in top-tier protective equipment, and empower every team member to halt operations if they see a hazard. Our incident rate is 60% below the industry average, and we intend to keep it there.
Growth Opportunities
We offer tuition reimbursement up to $5,000 per year, internal promotion pathways, cross-training programs, and mentorship from senior leadership. Over 40% of our current supervisors and managers were promoted from entry-level positions. We believe in growing talent from within.
Team Camaraderie
From monthly team lunches and quarterly barbecues to our annual company camping trip in the Columbia River Gorge, we invest in relationships beyond the work floor. We celebrate birthdays, milestones, and achievements together because a connected team is a stronger team.
Competitive Benefits
Full-time employees receive comprehensive health and dental insurance, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off starting at three weeks, paid parental leave, and an annual wellness stipend. We believe that taking care of our people is as important as taking care of the planet.
Open-Door Leadership
Our founders and senior leaders maintain an open-door policy. Ideas, feedback, and concerns flow freely in both directions. We hold monthly all-hands meetings where leadership shares company performance, upcoming projects, and answers questions transparently. Everyone has a voice at Pallets Eco.
Awards & Certifications
We are honored to be recognized by industry organizations, government agencies, and our peers for our commitment to sustainability, quality, and community impact.
Pacific Northwest Employer of the Year
Northwest Business Alliance
Recognized for outstanding employee development programs, competitive benefits, inclusive hiring, and a workplace culture that prioritizes safety, growth, and purpose-driven work.
National Green Logistics Award
Sustainable Supply Chain Council
Recognized for excellence in waste reduction, circular economy innovation, and measurable environmental impact in pallet logistics.
Best Workplace in Sustainability
Oregon Business Magazine
Named one of Oregon's top workplaces for companies committed to environmental stewardship and employee well-being.
Circular Economy Pioneer Award
Pacific Northwest Green Business Alliance
Honored for demonstrating how industrial companies can build profitable businesses around reuse, recycling, and waste elimination.
EPA WasteWise Gold Achievement
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Received Gold-level recognition for exceptional waste prevention, recycling, and source reduction accomplishments.
Small Business Environmental Champion
Portland Chamber of Commerce
Awarded to the local business demonstrating the greatest commitment to environmental responsibility and community benefit.
Carbon Neutral Certification
Climate Action Registry
Independently audited and verified as carbon-neutral across all Scope 1, Scope 2, and select Scope 3 emissions.
Community Involvement
Pallets Eco is deeply rooted in the Portland community and the broader Pacific Northwest. We believe that a successful company has a responsibility to uplift the neighborhoods, people, and ecosystems around it. Here are some of the ways we give back.
Portland Youth Trades Program
We partner with local high schools and community colleges to offer paid summer internships and apprenticeships in woodworking, logistics, and sustainability. Since 2017, we have trained over 60 young adults, with many joining our full-time team after graduation.
Trees for Tomorrow Initiative
For every 10,000 pallets recycled, we fund the planting of 500 native trees in Pacific Northwest forests. To date, the program has resulted in over 8,500 trees planted in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation and Friends of Trees Portland.
Habitat for Humanity Donations
We donate reclaimed lumber and repurposed pallet wood to Habitat for Humanity chapters in Oregon and Washington. Our materials have contributed to the construction and renovation of 15+ affordable homes since 2014.
Local Food Bank Logistics Support
Pallets Eco provides free pallet delivery and pickup services to the Oregon Food Bank and several Portland-area food pantries. We help these organizations manage their warehouse pallets at no cost, ensuring donated food is stored safely and efficiently.
Annual Community Clean-Up Day
Every spring, our entire team volunteers for a company-wide neighborhood clean-up in Portland's industrial district. We collect litter, clear invasive plants along the Willamette River, and partner with the city to improve green spaces near our facility.
Vocational Rehabilitation Partnership
We work with Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation Services to provide job placement and training for adults with disabilities. Our facility offers adapted workstations and mentorship, and we have successfully integrated 14 individuals into full-time roles since 2019.
Portland Public Schools STEM Days
Twice a year, we host STEM field trip days for local middle school students. Kids tour the facility, learn about recycling science, see our automated sorting technology in action, and participate in a hands-on pallet design challenge using cardboard prototyping kits.
Environmental Commitment
Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us. It is the foundation of everything we do. Here is a detailed look at the impact we have made and the goals we are working toward.
1M+
Pallets Recycled
17K
Trees Saved
5K+
Tons CO2 Prevented
12K
Tons Diverted from Landfills
8.5K
Trees Planted
100%
Renewable Energy at HQ
What We Have Achieved
- Carbon-neutral certified since 2018 across Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, verified annually by the Climate Action Registry.
- 100% of electricity at our Portland headquarters comes from renewable sources, including rooftop solar and a green energy utility contract.
- Zero-waste-to-landfill at our primary facility since 2020; every scrap of wood, metal, and cardboard is reused or recycled.
- Fleet includes six electric trucks and 10 hybrid vehicles, with full electrification targeted by 2028.
- Biomass-to-energy converter at our second facility generates 30% of on-site power from non-repairable wood waste.
Our 2030 Sustainability Goals
- Process 1 million+ pallets annually, keeping over 25,000 tons of material out of landfills each year.
- Achieve net-negative carbon emissions by investing in verified forestry and methane-capture offsets beyond our operational footprint.
- Fully electrify our entire delivery fleet, eliminating all diesel and gasoline consumption from our operations.
- Plant 25,000 trees through our Trees for Tomorrow program, partnering with reforestation organizations across the Pacific Northwest.
- Obtain B Corp certification, joining a global network of companies meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance.
When you partner with Pallets Eco, you are not just getting great pallet solutions. You are actively contributing to a healthier planet. We provide detailed sustainability reports to our clients, quantifying the exact environmental impact of every pallet transaction so you can include it in your own ESG reporting.
Together, we can build a more sustainable future for the logistics industry, one pallet at a time.
Pallets Eco at a Glance
A snapshot of our scale, reach, and impact as of 2024.
150+
Full-Time Employees
500K+
Pallets Processed Annually
2
Processing Facilities
95K
Sq Ft Total Facility Space
25+
Delivery Vehicles
5
States Regularly Served
500+
Active Business Clients
97%
On-Time Delivery Rate
16
Years in Operation
1M+
Lifetime Pallets Recycled
7
Industry Awards Won
60+
Youth Apprentices Trained
$45M
Annual Revenue
94%
Client Retention Rate
200+
Pallet Vendor Partners
8
Languages Spoken on Staff
Partners & Certifications
We hold certifications from leading industry and environmental organizations, ensuring our products and processes meet the highest standards.
Career Opportunities
We are always looking for talented, motivated individuals who share our passion for sustainability and quality craftsmanship. From warehouse operations and logistics to engineering and sales, Pallets Eco offers meaningful careers with competitive pay, excellent benefits, and real growth potential.
Current openings include positions in pallet inspection and repair, CDL truck drivers, quality assurance technicians, account managers, and sustainability analysts. We also welcome general applications from candidates who want to be considered for future openings.
Health & Dental
Comprehensive coverage for you and your family
401(k) Match
Company-matched retirement savings plan
Tuition Help
Up to $5,000/year for continuing education
PTO & Leave
3 weeks PTO plus paid parental leave
Career Growth
40% of supervisors promoted from within
Wellness
Annual wellness stipend and gym access
Request a Quote
Interested in partnering with Pallets Eco? Fill out the form below and our team will get back to you within one business day.