Frequently Asked Questions

Pallets Eco is a full-service pallet company based in Portland, Oregon, founded in 2008. We specialize in buying, selling, recycling, repairing, and transporting pallets of all types, including wood, plastic, metal, and composite materials. Our mission is to provide sustainable pallet solutions that reduce waste, support the circular economy, and help businesses meet their environmental goals while maintaining top-tier quality and reliability. We operate two processing facilities with a combined capacity of over 500,000 pallets per year.

We regularly serve six states across the western United States: Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Texas. Our Portland headquarters and regional offices in Seattle, Sacramento, Denver, Boise, and Austin provide local service in those metro areas. For customers outside our primary footprint, we can arrange third-party logistics for one-off or recurring deliveries anywhere in the continental United States. Contact us to discuss your specific location and we will find a solution.

Our standard business hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We are closed on Sundays and major holidays. For urgent needs outside of regular hours, you can email urgent@pallets-eco.com with "URGENT" in the subject line and our on-call operations manager will respond within two hours. After-hours service may incur additional fees, which will be quoted transparently before any work begins.

Yes, we work with both new and used pallets across our full range of services. We manufacture and source brand-new pallets built to specification, and we maintain a large inventory of high-quality reconditioned pallets that are inspected, repaired, and graded to meet industry standards. Used pallets offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to buying new, and they perform reliably when properly graded and refurbished. Our sales team can help you determine which option best fits your application and budget.

We offer pallets in a variety of materials to suit different applications and industries. Our inventory includes traditional hardwood and softwood pallets, lightweight and durable plastic pallets ideal for cleanroom and export use, heavy-duty metal pallets for industrial applications, and composite pallets that combine materials for optimized performance. Our team can recommend the best material for your specific use case, load requirements, and budget based on decades of industry experience.

As of 2024, our two processing facilities have a combined capacity of over 500,000 pallets per year. This includes pallets that are bought, sold, repaired, recycled, heat treated, and transported. Since our founding in 2008, we have processed well over one million pallets cumulatively. Our capacity continues to grow as we invest in automation and expand our facilities, and we are on track to reach one million pallets per year by 2030.

Pallets Eco is 100% locally owned and independently operated. Our founder and CEO, Marcus Rivera, started the company in Portland in 2008 and has never taken outside investment capital. We are proud to be a bootstrapped company that has grown entirely through reinvested revenue. This independence means we make decisions based on our mission, our employees, and our customers rather than outside investor pressure. Our annual revenue exceeds $45 million and we employ over 150 people.

We sell a comprehensive range of pallets including standard 48x40 GMA pallets, Euro pallets (800x1200mm), half pallets, custom-sized pallets, and specialty pallets designed for specific industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, automotive, and electronics. Our inventory spans new, Grade A refurbished, Grade B good-condition, and Grade C economy pallets in wood, plastic, composite, and metal materials. If you need a pallet type we do not currently stock, we can source or manufacture it within 5 to 10 business days.

Pricing depends on several factors: pallet material (wood, plastic, metal, or composite), size, grade (A, B, or C), quantity, and whether you need special features like heat treatment or custom dimensions. New pallets are priced higher than refurbished ones, and bulk orders receive significant per-unit discounts. We provide transparent, itemized quotes with no hidden fees so you can make an informed decision. Contact our sales team at sales@pallets-eco.com for a customized quote tailored to your exact specifications.

Absolutely. We offer competitive volume pricing for orders of 100 pallets or more, with deeper discounts at higher tiers such as 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000+ units. We also offer recurring order agreements for businesses with consistent monthly or weekly pallet needs, which lock in favorable pricing, guarantee inventory availability, and include dedicated account management. Our bulk customers typically save 15% to 30% compared to standard per-unit pricing.

Every used pallet in our inventory goes through a rigorous multi-point inspection and grading process before it is approved for sale. Grade A pallets are in like-new condition with minimal cosmetic wear and full structural integrity. Grade B pallets are in good working condition with some cosmetic imperfections such as minor staining or surface marks but no structural defects. Grade C pallets are economy-grade, suitable for one-way shipping, storage, or applications where appearance is not critical. All grades are clearly labeled and documented.

Yes, we offer full custom pallet sizing through our in-house Custom Pallet Design Studio. Whether you need non-standard dimensions, specific load-bearing capacities, notched stringers, anti-slip surfaces, or specialized deck configurations, our engineering team will work with you to design and build pallets tailored to your exact requirements. Custom orders typically have a lead time of 5 to 10 business days depending on complexity and volume.

You can place an order by filling out the quote request form on our website, emailing sales@pallets-eco.com, or contacting your dedicated account manager if you are an existing client. Include the pallet type, material, grade, quantity, any special requirements, delivery address, and your preferred timeline. Our sales team will respond within 4 business hours with a detailed quote. Once approved, we schedule production or pull from inventory and coordinate delivery.

Yes, we maintain a substantial inventory of plastic pallets in several standard sizes and configurations. Plastic pallets are ideal for food processing environments, pharmaceutical cleanrooms, export shipments where ISPM 15 compliance is not required, and applications where moisture resistance and ease of cleaning are priorities. We carry nestable, stackable, and rackable plastic pallets in both new and refurbished conditions. Plastic pallets are more expensive upfront than wood but often have a longer lifespan and lower total cost of ownership for high-cycle applications.

Absolutely. We encourage prospective clients to visit our Portland facility for a tour or request sample pallets before committing to a large order. We can ship up to three sample pallets to your location for evaluation at a nominal shipping cost, which is credited toward your first order. Samples allow you to verify dimensions, grade quality, load capacity, and compatibility with your equipment before purchasing in volume.

Selling your used pallets to us is straightforward. Email vendors@pallets-eco.com or fill out the quote request form on our website and select "Sell" as your service type. Tell us about the types of pallets you have (material, size, approximate quantity, and condition), and our purchasing team will evaluate the opportunity and provide a buyback quote within two business days. If you accept, we schedule a convenient pickup at your facility at no cost to you within our service area.

We accept most standard pallet types including wood (hardwood and softwood), plastic, and composite pallets in any condition, from like-new to damaged. We buy standard 48x40 GMA pallets, Euro pallets, and many custom sizes. Even broken or heavily worn pallets have value because we recycle the materials. The only pallets we cannot accept are those contaminated with hazardous substances, pesticides, or other regulated materials. Contact us if you are unsure and we will advise you on whether your pallets qualify.

Buyback pricing depends on the pallet type, size, material, condition, and quantity. Pallets in better condition command higher prices because they can be refurbished and resold with minimal processing. We assess pallets on a per-load basis and provide a firm price before pickup. Our pricing is competitive and transparent, and we always explain the factors behind our offer. For ongoing pallet supply relationships, we can negotiate fixed pricing agreements that provide stability for both parties.

Yes, we provide free pickup service for pallet buyback and recycling within our regular service areas across Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Texas. For locations outside these areas, pickup fees may apply depending on distance and volume. We schedule pickups at times convenient for your operations, and our fleet can handle everything from a few stacks to full truckloads. Contact us to arrange a pickup window that works for your schedule.

There is no strict minimum, but for free pickup service, we generally ask for at least 50 pallets per load to make the logistics economical. If you have fewer than 50 pallets, we can still work with you, though there may be a small pickup fee or we may bundle your pickup with a nearby route. For businesses that generate pallets regularly, we can set up a recurring pickup schedule regardless of per-visit volume, which often eliminates minimum requirements.

Yes, walk-in drop-offs are accepted at our Portland headquarters during business hours (Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM). Drive your vehicle to the receiving area on the east side of the building and check in with our operations staff. We will inspect the pallets on-site and provide an immediate buyback offer. Payment for walk-in drop-offs is typically processed within 5 business days via your preferred payment method.

For established vendor accounts, payment is processed within 5 to 7 business days of pallet pickup or drop-off. We pay via ACH bank transfer or company check, depending on your preference. New vendors may experience slightly longer processing on their first transaction while we set up the account. For high-volume or recurring vendor relationships, we can arrange weekly payment cycles to improve your cash flow.

Our recycling process begins with collection from your facility, either through a scheduled recurring pickup or a one-time arrangement. Once pallets arrive at our facility, they are sorted by condition using our automated grading line. Pallets that can be economically repaired are refurbished and returned to circulation. Those that are too damaged for repair are carefully dismantled: usable boards and stringers are salvaged for repair stock, and the remaining wood is chipped and processed into landscaping mulch, animal bedding, or biomass fuel. Metal fasteners are separated and sent to scrap metal recyclers.

We recycle wood pallets of all species (hardwood and softwood), plastic pallets, composite pallets, and pallet collars and covers. We also process loose pallet lumber, broken crates, and other wood packaging materials. Metal components such as nails, screws, and brackets are separated and recycled as scrap metal. We cannot accept materials contaminated with hazardous substances. If you have mixed loads of packaging waste, contact us and we will help you sort out what we can handle.

Nothing goes to waste in our process. Repaired pallets re-enter the supply chain for commercial use. Salvaged boards become repair stock for refurbishing other pallets. Wood chips are distributed as landscaping mulch, animal bedding, or biomass fuel for energy generation. At our second facility, a biomass-to-energy converter turns wood waste into electricity that powers the building. Metal fasteners are sent to scrap metal processors. Our primary facility has achieved zero-waste-to-landfill status since 2020.

On average, recycling a single pallet prevents approximately 11 pounds of CO2 from entering the atmosphere compared to manufacturing a new pallet from virgin timber or sending the old one to a landfill. This accounts for the avoided logging, milling, transportation, and decomposition emissions. Since our founding, Pallets Eco has prevented over 5,000 tons of cumulative CO2 emissions through our recycling and refurbishment programs. We provide detailed environmental impact calculations for all corporate clients.

Yes, we provide detailed recycling certificates and environmental impact reports to all clients who use our recycling services. These documents quantify the number of pallets recycled, the weight of material diverted from landfills, the estimated trees saved, and the CO2 emissions prevented. These certificates are formatted for easy inclusion in your ESG reports, sustainability disclosures, and corporate environmental compliance filings. Certificates are issued quarterly or on demand.

Yes, we offer recurring recycling pickup programs for businesses that generate used pallets on a regular basis. Pickup frequency can be weekly, biweekly, monthly, or on a custom schedule based on your pallet generation rate. Recurring pickup clients receive priority scheduling, guaranteed pickup windows, and quarterly environmental impact summaries. Contact recycling@pallets-eco.com to set up a recurring program tailored to your needs.

In most cases, yes. Pallets with standard paint markings, shipping labels, or light surface stains can be recycled through our normal process. However, pallets coated with heavy industrial paint, chemical treatments other than standard heat treatment, or unknown coatings may require special handling. We evaluate each case individually during intake inspection. Contact us with details about the coating and we will advise on recyclability and any additional processing requirements.

Our skilled repair crew can fix a wide range of pallet damage including broken or cracked deck boards, split or fractured stringers, missing boards, loose or protruding nails, warped deck sections, and damaged notches. We replace individual components rather than discarding the entire pallet, which saves material and cost. Repairs use kiln-dried replacement lumber that matches the original species and thickness to maintain structural consistency. Pallets with more than 40% of their components damaged are typically more cost-effective to recycle than repair.

When pallets arrive at our facility, they pass through our automated inspection line which identifies the type and extent of damage. Pallets flagged for repair are routed to our repair stations where skilled carpenters assess each unit individually. Damaged boards are removed using pneumatic pry bars, replacement boards are cut to exact dimensions from our lumber stock, and new components are secured using industrial-grade pneumatic nailers. Each repaired pallet is re-inspected and graded before returning to inventory. The entire process from intake to completion typically takes 1 to 3 business days.

In most cases, significantly so. Repairing a standard 48x40 wood pallet typically costs 30% to 60% less than purchasing a new one, depending on the extent of damage. A pallet needing one or two replacement boards is on the lower end of that range, while one requiring stringer reinforcement and multiple boards is on the higher end. Beyond cost, repair is also the most environmentally responsible option because it extends the pallet lifecycle and avoids the carbon footprint of manufacturing a new pallet from virgin materials.

Standard repair turnaround is 1 to 3 business days from the time pallets arrive at our facility. For high-volume repair orders (500+ pallets), turnaround may extend to 5 business days depending on current workload and the complexity of repairs needed. We offer expedited repair service for an additional fee, with next-business-day completion available for orders within the Portland metro area. Your account manager will provide an accurate timeline when you submit a repair request.

Yes, we offer repair-and-return service where you send us your damaged pallets and we repair them to your specified grade standard, then return them to you. This is a popular option for businesses that own their pallet inventory and want to maximize the lifespan of their existing stock. We provide a per-pallet repair quote after initial assessment, and you only pay for pallets we actually repair. Pallets deemed beyond economical repair can be recycled at your request.

Several simple practices can significantly extend pallet life. Store pallets in a covered area to reduce moisture exposure, which is the leading cause of wood decay and warping. Stack empty pallets no more than 15 high to prevent bottom-tier crushing. Train forklift operators to enter pallet openings squarely rather than at an angle, which is the most common cause of stringer damage. Avoid dragging pallets across concrete floors. Rotate your pallet inventory so the same pallets are not repeatedly subjected to the heaviest loads. These practices can extend average pallet lifespan by 30% to 50%.

Yes, we operate our own fleet of 25+ delivery vehicles, including flatbed trucks, box trucks, and tractor-trailers. We offer convenient delivery and pickup services throughout our six-state service area. Deliveries go directly to your warehouse, manufacturing facility, loading dock, or distribution center. Pickup services are available for pallet buyback and recycling programs. We also coordinate with third-party carriers for shipments outside our regular service footprint.

For in-stock standard pallets within our primary service areas, we typically deliver within 2 to 3 business days from order confirmation. Custom orders and specialty pallets require 5 to 10 business days depending on complexity. We also offer expedited and same-day delivery options for urgent needs within the Portland metro area, subject to availability. Your account manager will confirm an exact delivery date when you place your order, and you will receive tracking information once your shipment is dispatched.

Yes, all deliveries from our fleet are tracked via GPS. Once your order ships, you will receive an email notification with a tracking reference and an estimated arrival window. For large or recurring orders, your dedicated account manager can provide real-time updates. We are currently developing an online client portal for self-service tracking, which we expect to launch in 2025. In the meantime, you can email operations@pallets-eco.com any time for a status update.

Our own fleet regularly delivers across Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Texas. For deliveries to other states in the continental US, we partner with vetted regional carriers to ensure reliable service and competitive rates. Contact us with your delivery address and we will confirm coverage, pricing, and estimated transit time. We have successfully coordinated deliveries to all 48 contiguous states.

Our fleet includes flatbed trucks for standard pallet deliveries, enclosed box trucks for weather-sensitive or cleanroom-grade shipments, and tractor-trailers for large-volume orders. We also operate six fully electric trucks and ten hybrid vehicles as part of our commitment to reducing fleet emissions. All vehicles are maintained to the highest safety standards, and our drivers hold CDL certifications and undergo regular safety training. Our fleet is GPS-tracked with 30-second location updates.

Yes, we can arrange liftgate delivery for locations that do not have a loading dock or forklift available. Liftgate service uses a hydraulic platform on the rear of the truck to lower pallets to ground level. There is a small additional fee for liftgate delivery, which will be included in your quote. If you need liftgate service, mention it when placing your order so we can dispatch an appropriately equipped vehicle.

Yes, we actively optimize routes to include backhaul opportunities. If we are delivering pallets to your location and you also have pallets to sell or recycle, we can combine the delivery and pickup into a single trip, which reduces transportation costs for both parties and lowers carbon emissions. Let your account manager know if you have outbound and inbound pallet needs, and we will coordinate the logistics to maximize efficiency.

We accept a variety of payment methods to make doing business with us as convenient as possible. These include company checks, ACH bank transfers, wire transfers, and all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). For established accounts, we also offer net-30 and net-60 payment terms upon credit approval. We do not currently accept cryptocurrency or cash for large transactions, though cash is accepted for small walk-in purchases at our Portland facility.

Yes, we offer net-30 and net-60 payment terms for qualified business accounts. To apply, complete our credit application form, which your account manager will provide during onboarding. Approval is typically processed within 3 to 5 business days and is based on standard credit checks and business references. Approved accounts enjoy the flexibility of invoiced billing, which simplifies purchasing for recurring orders and eliminates the need for payment at the time of order.

No. Transparency is one of our core values. Every quote we provide is fully itemized, showing per-unit pricing, delivery or pickup fees (if applicable), any surcharges for special services like heat treatment or custom fabrication, and applicable taxes. There are no hidden fees, setup charges, or surprise line items. If the scope of an order changes after quoting, we will provide an updated quote for your approval before proceeding with any additional work.

You can request a free, no-obligation quote by filling out the form on our website, emailing sales@pallets-eco.com, or contacting your regional office. Include the pallet type, material, grade, quantity, delivery address, and timeline. Our sales team responds to quote requests within 4 business hours during the workweek. Quotes are valid for 30 days and include detailed line-item pricing so you can make an informed decision.

Yes. We offer tiered volume discounts that increase with order size. Orders of 100+ pallets receive our first discount tier, with deeper savings at 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000+ units. Recurring monthly or weekly order programs receive the best rates, and we can lock in pricing for 6- or 12-month terms to protect you from market fluctuations. Our bulk customers typically save between 15% and 30% compared to standard pricing.

Delivery fees are quoted separately from pallet pricing so you have full visibility into each cost component. For large orders within our primary service areas, delivery is often included at no additional charge as part of our volume pricing. For smaller orders or deliveries to remote locations, a delivery fee is added based on distance and load size. Your quote will clearly itemize both the pallet cost and the delivery fee so there are no surprises.

We are confident in our pricing and believe we offer the best value in the market when you consider our quality, service, sustainability certifications, and delivery reliability. While we do not have a formal price-match policy, we encourage you to share competing quotes with your account manager. We will review the comparison and do our best to offer a competitive solution. In many cases, we can adjust volume tiers, delivery terms, or service bundles to meet your budget.

ISPM 15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a set of guidelines developed by the International Plant Protection Convention to prevent the international spread of plant diseases and pests through wood packaging. It requires that wood pallets used in international trade be heat treated to a core temperature of 56 degrees Celsius for at least 30 minutes and stamped with a certified mark. Our in-house kiln is fully certified, and we produce ISPM 15 compliant pallets for export use with proper stamping recognized by customs authorities worldwide.

We use a three-tier grading system that our quality assurance team applies consistently to every refurbished pallet. Grade A pallets are in like-new condition with intact stringers, no broken boards, minimal staining, and full load-bearing capacity. Grade B pallets are structurally sound with some cosmetic imperfections such as minor discoloration, surface marks, or slight board wear. Grade C pallets are economy-grade, suitable for one-way use or storage. Each pallet is individually inspected and graded before leaving our facility.

Every pallet that enters and leaves our facility undergoes a multi-point inspection covering structural integrity, board condition, stringer condition, fastener security, dimensional accuracy, moisture content, and surface cleanliness. Our quality assurance team uses both visual inspection and automated grading technology with optical sensors to ensure consistency. Pallets that fail inspection are routed to our repair line or recycling pipeline depending on the severity of the issue. Inspection records are maintained for full traceability.

Yes. All new pallets come with a structural warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for the rated load capacity. Grade A and Grade B refurbished pallets are guaranteed to meet the performance specifications described at the time of sale. If any pallet fails to meet its stated grade upon delivery, we will replace it at no cost. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction, and we stand behind the quality of every pallet that leaves our facility.

Our standard 48x40 GMA wood pallets are rated for 2,500 pounds dynamic load (when being moved by a forklift), 2,800 pounds static load (when resting on a flat surface), and 2,200 pounds racking load (when supported only at the edges on warehouse racking). These ratings apply to Grade A and Grade B pallets. Grade C pallets have lower ratings and are recommended for lighter-duty applications. For heavy-duty requirements exceeding these ratings, our Custom Solutions team can engineer pallets rated up to 10,000+ pounds.

Consistency is managed through a combination of our automated grading line, standardized repair procedures, and batch-level quality sampling. For large orders, our quality assurance team pulls random samples from every production batch (typically 1 in 50 pallets) and performs detailed inspections including dimensional verification, load testing, and moisture measurement. If any sample fails, the entire batch is held for re-inspection before shipping. This approach ensures that every pallet in your order meets the stated grade specification.

Yes, we have been independently audited and certified as carbon neutral since 2018. Our certification covers Scope 1 (direct emissions from our fleet and facilities) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased electricity) emissions. We achieve this through a combination of rooftop solar panels, a green energy utility contract, fleet electrification, biomass-to-energy conversion, and verified carbon offsets. Our certification is renewed annually through the Climate Action Registry with full third-party verification.

We hold several key certifications: Carbon Neutral Certification from the Climate Action Registry, EPA WasteWise Gold Partnership, FSC Chain of Custody Certification for responsibly sourced wood, ISPM 15 Heat Treatment Certification for export-compliant pallets, Oregon Sustainable Business Certification, and EPA SmartWay Transport Partnership. We are also an active member of the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) and are pursuing B Corp certification with an expected completion date in 2025.

Yes. When you partner with Pallets Eco for pallet purchasing, recycling, or management, we can calculate the exact environmental impact of your pallet-related activities and provide documentation for your sustainability reporting. For clients who want to go further, we offer the ability to purchase additional verified carbon offsets through our forestry and methane-capture portfolio, which can be applied to your company's broader emissions reduction goals. Our sustainability team will work with you to tailor the right program.

Absolutely. We provide quarterly sustainability impact reports to all clients, formatted for easy integration into ESG disclosures, annual sustainability reports, and corporate environmental filings. These reports include pallets recycled, CO2 emissions prevented, trees saved, landfill waste diverted, and renewable energy usage. Our sustainability team is happy to work with your reporting team to ensure the data meets your specific frameworks, whether GRI, SASB, CDP, or internal standards.

Choosing a recycled or refurbished pallet over a new one made from virgin timber significantly reduces environmental impact. A refurbished pallet requires approximately 80% less energy to produce than a new one, generates roughly 70% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and avoids the need to harvest new trees entirely. Over the lifecycle of a recurring pallet program, these savings compound dramatically. Our team can model the exact environmental benefit for your specific order volumes and provide a detailed comparison report.

Trees for Tomorrow is our flagship reforestation initiative. For every 10,000 pallets we recycle, we fund the planting of 500 native trees in Pacific Northwest forests. We partner with the Arbor Day Foundation and Friends of Trees Portland to select planting sites and species appropriate for the local ecosystem. To date, we have planted over 8,500 trees through this program. Our goal is to reach 25,000 trees planted by 2030. Clients who participate in our recycling programs receive annual updates on the trees planted on their behalf.

Yes, we publish an annual sustainability report that covers our environmental impact, carbon footprint, waste diversion metrics, fleet emissions, renewable energy usage, community programs, and progress toward our 2030 goals. The report is authored by our Head of Sustainability, James Torres, and reviewed by an independent environmental consultant. It is available to all clients, stakeholders, and the general public upon request. Email sustainability@pallets-eco.com to receive a copy.

ISPM 15 is an international phytosanitary standard that requires wood packaging materials used in international trade to be treated to eliminate pests that could spread across borders. Most countries, including all EU member states, Canada, China, Australia, and Japan, require ISPM 15 compliance for imported wood pallets. Non-compliant shipments can be rejected at customs, quarantined, or destroyed, causing costly delays. Our in-house certified heat treatment kiln ensures your export pallets meet ISPM 15 standards and carry the proper compliance stamp.

Yes, we provide all necessary documentation for international shipments, including ISPM 15 compliance certificates, phytosanitary treatment records, pallet packing lists with dimensions and weights, and material declarations. We can also provide certificates of origin for countries that require them. Our export coordinator works directly with your customs broker or freight forwarder to ensure paperwork is complete before your shipment departs. Email export@pallets-eco.com for assistance with any international documentation needs.

We do not perform fumigation on-site because we believe heat treatment is the superior method for ISPM 15 compliance. Heat treatment is chemical-free, leaves no residue, and is accepted by all countries that enforce ISPM 15. Some older regulations permitted methyl bromide fumigation, but many countries are phasing it out due to environmental concerns. If your specific situation requires fumigation for non-ISPM 15 purposes, we can coordinate with a certified third-party fumigation provider on your behalf.

Our ISPM 15 compliant pallets have been used in shipments to over 30 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Oceania. Frequent destinations include Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, China, Australia, and Brazil. Each country may have specific labeling or documentation requirements beyond ISPM 15, and our export team is familiar with the nuances of the most common trade lanes. Contact us with your destination and we will confirm all requirements.

Yes. ISPM 15 regulations apply only to wood packaging materials. Plastic pallets, metal pallets, and composite pallets that do not contain natural wood are exempt from ISPM 15 heat treatment requirements. This makes plastic pallets an attractive option for international shippers who want to simplify customs compliance. However, some countries may still require a material declaration confirming the pallet does not contain wood. We can provide this documentation with your plastic pallet order.

Yes, we regularly deliver pallets directly to freight forwarders, consolidation warehouses, container loading facilities, and port terminals throughout the Pacific Northwest. We work with major ports in Portland, Seattle, Tacoma, Oakland, and Long Beach. Our logistics team will coordinate delivery timing with your freight schedule to ensure pallets arrive when your container is ready for loading. Provide your forwarder contact and booking details, and we will handle the rest.

To apply for net-30 or net-60 credit terms, contact your account manager or email billing@pallets-eco.com and request our credit application form. The application asks for basic business information, two business references, and authorization for a standard business credit check. We process applications within 3 to 5 business days and notify you of the decision by email. Approved credit limits are based on your business profile and expected order volume. There is no fee for the application.

For clients on recurring delivery programs, invoices are generated automatically after each delivery and sent to your accounts payable email address. Invoices include a detailed line-item breakdown of pallets delivered, per-unit pricing, delivery fees, and any applicable taxes. We also provide a monthly summary statement that rolls up all transactions for the period. Invoices can be delivered in PDF format via email or through EDI integration for enterprise clients.

To set up ACH (Automated Clearing House) payments, request our ACH authorization form from your account manager or email billing@pallets-eco.com. The form requires your bank name, routing number, account number, and authorized signatory information. Once submitted, ACH setup is typically completed within 3 business days. ACH payments are processed automatically on invoice due dates, simplifying your accounts payable process and eliminating the need to issue individual checks.

Yes. If your organization is tax-exempt (such as a government agency, nonprofit, or educational institution), provide a copy of your tax-exemption certificate to billing@pallets-eco.com and we will set up your account accordingly. Once the certificate is on file, all future invoices will be generated without sales tax. We require an updated certificate annually to maintain tax-exempt status on your account.

If you notice any discrepancy on an invoice, email billing@pallets-eco.com with your invoice number and a description of the issue. Our billing team will investigate within 2 business days and issue a corrected invoice or credit memo if warranted. We do not charge late fees on disputed amounts while an investigation is active. Disputed items are tracked in our system to ensure resolution, and you will receive written confirmation when the issue is closed.

Yes. For clients who place multiple orders per month, we can configure your account to receive a single consolidated monthly invoice rather than individual invoices per delivery. The consolidated invoice includes a summary of all transactions during the billing period with detailed line items for each order. This simplifies your accounts payable processing and reduces paperwork. Contact billing@pallets-eco.com to switch to consolidated billing.

Always wear appropriate PPE when handling pallets, including steel-toe boots, work gloves, and safety glasses. Use proper lifting technique (bend at the knees, keep back straight) when moving pallets manually, and use mechanical equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks for loads over 60 pounds. Inspect pallets visually before handling to check for protruding nails, broken boards, or splinters. Never stand on a pallet as a work platform, and keep fingers away from gaps between boards when stacking or unstacking.

We recommend stacking empty standard 48x40 wood pallets no more than 15 units high on a flat, level surface. Exceeding this height increases the risk of stack collapse and bottom-tier pallet damage from compression. If you are stacking on an uneven surface or in a high-wind outdoor area, reduce the maximum height to 10 pallets and consider using banding or stretch wrap to secure the stack. Always place the heaviest and most structurally sound pallets at the bottom of the stack.

Standard 48x40 GMA wood pallets are rated for 2,500 pounds dynamic load (forklift movement), 2,800 pounds static load (stationary floor storage), and 2,200 pounds racking load (warehouse racking). Never exceed the rated load for the type of use. When loading, distribute weight evenly across the entire deck surface and ensure the center of gravity is low and centered. Overloading pallets causes board deflection, stringer cracking, and increases the risk of load shift during transport, which is a significant safety hazard.

Wood pallets are combustible and should be stored in compliance with local fire codes and NFPA 13 standards. Keep pallet stacks at least 8 feet from building walls and occupied areas. Do not store pallets near heat sources, open flames, or electrical panels. Outdoor pallet storage should be at least 25 feet from buildings. Install appropriate fire suppression systems (in-rack sprinklers for racked storage) and maintain clear access aisles for emergency equipment. Limit the total volume of pallets stored in any single area according to your local fire marshal guidelines.

Standard used pallets pose minimal chemical risk. Our pallets are either untreated or heat treated (which uses no chemicals). We do not accept pallets that have been treated with methyl bromide, pesticides, or other hazardous chemicals. However, used pallets from unknown sources may have been exposed to spilled chemicals during their prior use. If you receive pallets with unusual stains, odors, or residues, do not use them for food-contact applications and contact us for guidance. All of our pallets are inspected for contamination before sale.

First, ensure the injured person receives appropriate medical attention immediately. Document the incident including the pallet involved (note any identifying marks, barcodes, or grade labels), the circumstances, and witness statements. If the pallet was supplied by Pallets Eco, contact quality@pallets-eco.com with the incident details and pallet information. We will investigate promptly, and if the pallet was defective or mis-graded, we take full responsibility and will work with you to resolve the matter. We maintain $2 million per-occurrence general liability insurance for this purpose.

We are currently developing a self-service client portal that will allow customers to view real-time inventory availability, track deliveries via GPS, access invoice history, download recycling certificates, and place reorders. The portal is expected to launch in 2025. In the meantime, your account manager can provide real-time updates on order status, inventory levels, and delivery tracking via email. We also send automated shipment notifications with tracking references for every delivery.

Every pallet batch processed at our facility is assigned a unique barcode that is scanned at each stage of processing: intake, inspection, grading, repair, heat treatment, staging, and shipment. This allows us to maintain a complete chain of custody and 99.8% inventory accuracy. We are currently piloting an RFID tagging program for high-value and high-cycle pallet pools, which would allow automated tracking without line-of-sight scanning. The RFID pilot is expected to expand to full-scale deployment by late 2025.

Our primary automated system is the optical sorting and grading conveyor, which processes 120 pallets per hour using cameras, laser dimensional gauges, and capacitance moisture sensors. We also use automated nail guns and board-cutting stations on our repair lines, a magnetically-separated metal recovery system in the recycling yard, and GPS-based route optimization software for fleet management. Our biomass-to-energy converter operates with automated feed and combustion controls. We continuously evaluate new automation opportunities to improve quality, throughput, and worker safety.

We currently support EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) integration for enterprise clients who want to automate purchase orders, order confirmations, advance shipping notices, and invoicing. EDI setup requires coordination between our IT team and yours, and typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to implement and test. We are also exploring REST API options for our upcoming client portal. Contact our IT department at systems@pallets-eco.com to discuss integration options and technical requirements for your specific ERP or procurement system.

Disposal regulations vary by state and municipality. In Oregon, wood pallets are classified as solid waste and must be disposed of at permitted facilities. Many jurisdictions prohibit burning pallets due to air quality regulations and the potential release of treated-wood chemicals. Some cities have banned pallet disposal in standard landfills to encourage recycling. The best practice is always to recycle pallets through a licensed recycler like Pallets Eco rather than disposing of them. We can help you navigate local disposal regulations and provide a recycling alternative that keeps you compliant.

Oregon has some of the most progressive waste management regulations in the country. The Oregon DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) encourages businesses to recycle wood waste including pallets and offers technical assistance for waste reduction programs. Oregon also has specific air quality regulations that apply to facilities that process or burn wood waste, which our operations fully comply with. Our biomass-to-energy converter meets all Oregon DEQ air quality emission standards, and our recycling operations are permitted and inspected regularly.

We comply with all applicable EPA regulations, including the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) for solid waste management, the Clean Air Act for emissions from our biomass converter, and EPA WasteWise program guidelines for waste prevention and recycling. We are an EPA WasteWise Gold partner, which recognizes our exceptional waste prevention, recycling, and source reduction accomplishments. We also participate in the EPA SmartWay Transport Partnership, which commits our fleet operations to fuel efficiency and emissions reduction targets.

Yes. We provide comprehensive documentation that supports our clients environmental compliance and reporting obligations. This includes recycling certificates quantifying materials diverted from landfill, CO2 emissions prevented, waste manifests for tracked material streams, ISPM 15 treatment records, and sustainability impact summaries. All documentation is formatted for inclusion in EPA reports, state environmental filings, ESG disclosures, and third-party audits. Our sustainability team can work with your compliance officer to ensure documentation meets your specific regulatory requirements.

Yes, custom pallet design is one of our core capabilities. Our Custom Pallet Design Studio, led by a Mechanical Engineering graduate with two pending patents, uses CAD modeling and structural analysis software to design pallets that meet your exact dimensional, load-bearing, and material specifications. Whether you need an odd-sized pallet, an extra-heavy-duty platform, a nestable design for storage efficiency, or an export-compliant specialty pallet, we can engineer and manufacture it. We also offer rapid prototyping so you can test before committing to a full order.

The process begins with a consultation where you share your requirements: dimensions, weight capacity, material preferences, compliance needs (like ISPM 15), and any unique features. Our engineer creates a CAD design and structural analysis, which we review with you. If you approve, we produce a prototype within 3 to 5 business days for physical testing. Once the prototype is confirmed, we move to full production with a typical lead time of 5 to 10 business days depending on volume. Throughout the process, you have a single point of contact.

Yes, we operate certified heat treatment kilns at our Portland headquarters and Sacramento regional facility that process pallets to ISPM 15 standards. Heat treatment involves raising the core temperature of the wood to 56 degrees Celsius and maintaining it for at least 30 minutes, which eliminates pests and pathogens. Each heat-treated pallet receives an official ISPM 15 compliance stamp that is recognized by customs authorities worldwide. We can heat treat pallets from our inventory or treat customer-supplied pallets.

Absolutely. We regularly produce pallets engineered for specific static, dynamic, and racking load capacities. Our engineering team performs structural analysis using industry-standard software to ensure the pallet design meets your load requirements with appropriate safety margins. We can design for light-duty applications under 1,000 pounds all the way up to heavy-duty industrial platforms rated for 10,000+ pounds. Load specifications are documented, verified through physical load testing, and included with your order documentation.

Yes, we offer a range of custom features that can be added to any pallet design. Anti-slip coatings or rubber grip strips prevent product shifting during transport. Corner protectors and rubber bumpers reduce impact damage to products and facility walls. Branded markings including company logos, handling instructions, and weight ratings can be applied via stenciling or hot branding. Drainage holes for pallets used in wash-down environments and chamfered edges for automated conveyor systems are also available. Discuss your needs with our engineering team during the design consultation.

Getting started is easy and takes just a few steps. First, reach out to us via the quote form on our website, by emailing info@pallets-eco.com, or by contacting one of our regional offices. Tell us about your business, your pallet needs, and your preferred services (buying, selling, recycling, repair, or a combination). Our sales team will assign you a dedicated account manager who will walk you through our product options, pricing, and delivery logistics. There is no lengthy application process or commitment required to get your first order.

No. There is no setup fee, account minimum, or annual commitment to work with Pallets Eco. You can place a one-time order or set up an ongoing program. For businesses that want to establish credit terms (net-30 or net-60), we do require a brief credit application, but there is no fee associated with it. We believe in earning your repeat business through quality and service, not locking you into contracts or charging upfront fees.

For standard in-stock pallets within our regular service areas, first orders typically ship within 2 to 3 business days of order confirmation. If you need a specific grade, size, or volume that requires sourcing or production, lead times range from 5 to 10 business days. Custom pallet orders include a design and prototyping phase that may add additional time. Our sales team will provide an accurate delivery estimate when you place your order so you can plan accordingly.

Yes. Every business client is assigned a dedicated account manager who serves as your single point of contact for orders, questions, scheduling, and support. Your account manager learns your business, understands your pallet needs, and proactively suggests ways to optimize your program for cost, efficiency, and sustainability. For larger accounts, you may also have access to our operations and sustainability teams for logistics coordination and environmental reporting.

Absolutely, and we encourage it. We offer complimentary facility tours at our Portland headquarters by appointment. Tours typically last 45 to 60 minutes and include our inspection and grading floor, repair workshop, recycling operations, quality lab, heat treatment kiln, fleet garage, and custom design studio. It is a great way to see our quality standards in action and meet the team that will be handling your pallets. Email info@pallets-eco.com to schedule a tour at a time that works for you.

We serve a wide range of industries including food and beverage manufacturing, pharmaceutical and medical device companies, automotive parts suppliers, electronics manufacturers, retail distribution centers, e-commerce fulfillment operations, agricultural producers, construction material suppliers, and chemical companies. Our diverse client base spans from local craft breweries needing a few dozen pallets per month to Fortune 1000 manufacturers ordering tens of thousands. Regardless of your industry, our team can recommend the right pallet type, grade, and program for your specific application.