Wood Pallets
Sustainably sourced, expertly crafted wood pallets for every application. From the industry-standard 48x40 GMA to fully custom solutions, our wood pallets combine strength, reliability, and environmental responsibility. Available in new and recycled options with Grade A, B, and C quality tiers.
Types of Wood Pallets
We manufacture and supply seven distinct types of wood pallets, each designed for specific handling requirements, load conditions, and industry applications. Understanding the differences helps you select the most cost-effective option for your operation.
Stringer Pallets
The most common pallet type in North America, accounting for roughly 80% of all wood pallets in circulation. Stringer pallets use two or three parallel pieces of dimensional lumber (called stringers, typically 2x4 or 3x4) running the full length of the pallet to support the top and bottom deck boards. The stringers can be notched to allow partial 4-way fork entry, or left unnotched for strict 2-way entry.
Top deck boards nailed to 2 or 3 stringers. Bottom boards (3-5) nailed to stringer undersides.
Dynamic: 2,000-2,800 lbs | Static: 4,000-5,600 lbs
Block Pallets
Premium pallets built with 4, 6, or 9 blocks of solid wood (typically 3.5" x 3.5" x 3.5") positioned between the top and bottom deck boards. Block pallets provide true 4-way forklift and pallet jack access from all four sides without any notching, making them the preferred choice for warehouses using multiple aisle orientations and for international shipping where EUR/EPAL standards dominate.
9-block (most common): 4 corner blocks, 4 edge blocks, 1 center block. Deck boards on top and bottom.
Dynamic: 2,500-4,000 lbs | Static: 5,000-8,000 lbs
Two-Way Pallets
Designed for facilities where pallets are always approached from the same two directions. Two-way pallets have solid stringers running the length, allowing fork entry only from the two open ends. While less flexible than 4-way designs, they offer maximum structural strength for their weight since the stringers are uninterrupted. Common in conveyor-based operations and narrow-aisle warehouses.
Solid (un-notched) stringers with full-length lumber. No fork openings on the stringer sides.
Dynamic: 2,500-3,000 lbs | Static: 5,000-6,000 lbs
Four-Way Pallets
The most versatile pallet design, allowing forklifts and pallet jacks to enter from all four sides. Four-way entry is achieved either through notched stringers (partial 4-way) or block construction (full 4-way). This flexibility reduces handling time, accommodates various warehouse layouts, and makes loading and unloading trucks faster and more efficient.
Block pallets with 9 blocks, or stringer pallets with notched stringers allowing partial 4-way access.
Dynamic: 2,000-4,000 lbs | Static: 4,000-8,000 lbs (varies by construction)
Reversible Pallets
Built with identical top and bottom decks, reversible pallets can be flipped over and used from either side. This doubles the effective lifespan of the pallet, since when one deck becomes worn, the pallet can simply be flipped. Reversible pallets also provide a flat surface on both sides, which is beneficial for stacking stability and when pallets are used as work surfaces.
Equal number and quality of deck boards on both faces. Supported by blocks or special stringer design.
Dynamic: 2,500-3,500 lbs | Static: 5,000-7,000 lbs
Wing Pallets
Wing pallets feature deck boards that extend beyond the stringers or blocks on two or four sides, creating overhanging "wings." This overhang allows stretch wrap or banding to be applied beneath the deck board edges, improving load security. Wing pallets are common in the beverage and canning industries where round containers need extra wrapping support.
Standard stringer or block base with extended deck boards. Wings typically 1" to 2" overhang per side.
Dynamic: 2,000-2,800 lbs | Static: 4,000-5,600 lbs
Flush Pallets
The most common design where all deck boards are cut flush (even) with the outer edges of the stringers or blocks. Flush pallets have clean, uniform edges that are easy to wrap, stack, and handle. They fit precisely into racking systems and shipping containers without wasted space or interference from protruding edges.
Deck boards cut to match the exact outer dimensions of the stringer or block base. No overhang.
Dynamic: 2,000-4,000 lbs | Static: 4,000-8,000 lbs (depends on base type)
Wood Species We Use
We carefully select wood species based on your performance requirements, budget, and sustainability goals. Each species has distinct mechanical properties that affect pallet weight, strength, durability, and cost.
Southern Yellow Pine (SYP)
The dominant pallet wood in North America, SYP accounts for over 40% of all pallets manufactured in the United States. Harvested from sustainably managed plantations across the Southeastern US (from Texas to Virginia), SYP grows quickly and is widely available year-round. It offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, machines well, and accepts heat treatment for ISPM 15 compliance without degradation.
Red Oak
Red oak is one of the most abundant hardwoods in North America and delivers excellent durability, impact resistance, and load capacity for pallet applications. Its open grain structure makes it slightly more susceptible to moisture than white oak, but its lower cost and wide availability make it a popular choice for heavy-duty pallets and reusable pallet programs.
White Oak
White oak is the premium choice for pallets that must resist moisture, chemicals, and harsh environments. Its closed, tyloses-filled grain structure makes it naturally water-resistant -- a property that sets it apart from red oak and most other domestic hardwoods. White oak pallets excel in outdoor storage, food processing, chemical handling, and any environment where decay resistance is critical.
Maple (Hard & Soft)
Hard maple (sugar maple) is one of the strongest and hardest domestic woods, making it exceptional for pallets in high-wear environments. Soft maple (red maple) offers 70-80% of hard maple's strength at a lower price point. Both species machine well, hold fasteners securely, and provide excellent stiffness -- a critical property for pallets used in racking systems where deflection must be minimized.
Poplar / Tulipwood
Yellow poplar (tulipwood) is the lightest of the domestic hardwoods and offers a unique combination: the classification and fastener-holding of a hardwood with a weight closer to softwood. It machines beautifully, resists splitting when nailed, and takes heat treatment without significant degradation. An excellent choice when you need hardwood durability without hardwood weight.
Mixed Hardwood
Our mixed hardwood pallets combine various hardwood species (typically red oak, maple, ash, birch, and beech) to deliver consistent performance at a moderate price point. By blending species from our regional sawmill partners, we maintain steady supply even when individual species face seasonal shortages. Mixed hardwood pallets meet most industry requirements for hardwood classification.
Standard Size Specifications
Detailed specifications for every standard wood pallet size we manufacture. All sizes available in stringer and block configurations, new and recycled, with heat treatment options.
Grocery, retail, general warehousing, consumer goods
The industry-standard GMA pallet accounts for nearly one-third of all pallets in North America. Required by most major retailers including Walmart, Target, and Costco. Two GMA pallets fit side-by-side in a standard 53-foot trailer (30 per load).
Telecommunications, paint, chemical drums, can goods
Square design optimized for stacking drums and cylindrical containers. Widely used in the telecom industry for cable reels and equipment. Also common in the paint and coatings industry for 5-gallon pail arrangements.
Drums, barrels, large containers, military
Full-size square pallet designed for 55-gallon drum arrangements (typically 4 drums per pallet). Also used for IBC totes and large square containers. Common in military logistics for ammunition and supply pallets.
Small goods, printing, specialty, retail display
Compact pallet for smaller loads and tight storage spaces. Popular in the printing industry for paper reams and in specialty retail for point-of-purchase displays. Allows more pallets per trailer when products do not require full-size platforms.
Automotive parts, large machinery components
The recognized standard for the automotive industry. Designed to accommodate the specific dimensions of automotive parts bins and shipping containers. Commonly used in returnable pallet programs between OEMs and Tier 1/2 suppliers.
Chemical processing, military, cement, beverage
Versatile size bridging the gap between GMA and square formats. Popular in chemical distribution for pail and drum configurations. Used extensively by the US military for supply logistics.
Dairy products, square goods, specialty
The standard pallet size for the dairy industry, designed for milk crate stacking. Square format also works well for other products packaged in square containers or crates.
Beverage, bottling, paper, publishing
Optimized for beverage case stacking and paper product distribution. The narrower depth (36") allows more pallets per trailer when loaded in certain configurations, improving shipping economics for lighter loads.
Chemical drums (200L), bulk chemicals
Square format sized specifically for 200-liter (44-gallon) drum arrangements. Common in the chemical industry where drum dimensions drive pallet size selection.
Any -- built to your exact needs
Need a non-standard size? We manufacture custom wood pallets to any dimension, from small 12"x12" display platforms to oversized 72"x72" industrial platforms. Minimum order quantities may apply for truly custom sizes.
Quality Grades Explained
Our transparent grading system follows NWPCA guidelines and helps you select the right quality for your specific needs and budget. Every pallet is individually inspected and graded before sale.
Grade A
Premium / Like NewCriteria
- No broken, missing, or cracked boards
- No protruding nails or fasteners
- Minimal staining or discoloration (light watermarks acceptable)
- No mold, mildew, or fungal growth
- Structurally sound with full integrity in all components
- Boards uniform in thickness and spacing
- Clean appearance suitable for customer-facing environments
- Typically used 0-2 times previously
Export shipments, retail display, pharmaceutical distribution, food and beverage, customer-facing applications, trade shows, premium product packaging
Premium tier -- highest price, best appearance and condition. Typically $15-$25 per unit (48x40 stringer).
Grade B
Standard / Good ConditionCriteria
- All boards present and structurally intact
- Minor cosmetic imperfections allowed (light stains, slight discoloration)
- No more than 2 boards may show professional repairs
- No protruding nails (hammered flush or replaced)
- Full load-bearing capacity maintained
- No significant splits, cracks, or damage to stringers/blocks
- May show signs of normal use and weathering
- Typically used 3-8 times previously
General warehousing, manufacturing floor transport, distribution center operations, domestic shipping, internal logistics, B2B supply chains
Standard tier -- best value for most operations. Typically $8-$15 per unit (48x40 stringer).
Grade C
Economy / BudgetCriteria
- Structurally inspected and certified safe for rated load
- Visible cosmetic wear and aging
- Multiple board repairs are common and acceptable
- Staining, markings, and ink transfers present
- Color variation between boards is normal
- Minor warping acceptable if pallet sits flat
- All fasteners secure (no protruding nails)
- May have been used 10+ times previously
One-way domestic shipping, heavy-duty storage, construction sites, internal plant transport, non-appearance-sensitive applications, event staging
Economy tier -- lowest cost per unit. Typically $5-$10 per unit (48x40 stringer).
New Wood Pallets vs Recycled
Both new and recycled wood pallets have their place. This comparison helps you decide which option delivers the best value for your specific application.
| Feature | New Pallets | Recycled Pallets |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Uniform, clean, consistent color | Varies -- color variation, some wear marks |
| Structural Strength | 100% of rated capacity | 85-100% of rated capacity (grade dependent) |
| Contamination Risk | None (no prior use) | Minimal (inspected and graded) |
| Customization | Full -- any size, species, treatment | Limited to available stock |
| Price (48x40) | $15-$25 per unit | $5-$15 per unit |
| Lead Time | 3-7 business days | 1-3 business days (in stock) |
| ISPM 15 / HT | Available on all units | Available (re-treatment may be needed) |
| Environmental Impact | New wood from managed forests | Diverts waste, extends wood lifecycle |
| Best For | Export, pharma, food, retail display | Domestic shipping, warehousing, budget |
| Warranty | 12-month structural warranty | 90-day structural warranty |
Heat Treatment & ISPM 15
The International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM 15) is a global regulation adopted by over 180 countries that requires all solid wood packaging materials used in international trade to be treated to eliminate pests. Non-compliance can result in shipment rejection, quarantine, or destruction at the destination port -- along with fines and costly delays.
Heat Treatment (HT) Process
Wood is placed in a kiln and heated until the core temperature of every piece reaches 56 degrees Celsius (132.8 degrees Fahrenheit) for a minimum of 30 continuous minutes. Our kilns are equipped with core temperature probes that record the entire treatment cycle for quality verification.
The IPPC Wheat Stamp
After treatment, each pallet receives the official IPPC (International Plant Protection Convention) stamp, commonly called the wheat stamp. This stamp includes our unique facility number, the treatment code (HT for heat treatment), our country code (US), and the IPPC logo. Customs officials worldwide recognize this mark.
Methyl Bromide (MB) Alternative
While ISPM 15 allows methyl bromide fumigation as an alternative, this chemical is being phased out under the Montreal Protocol due to ozone depletion. We exclusively use heat treatment, which is chemical-free, environmentally safe, and accepted by all importing countries without restriction.
Moisture Content Considerations
Heat treatment and kiln drying are related but distinct processes. HT targets pest elimination at 56 degrees C. Kiln drying additionally reduces moisture content to below 19%, which helps prevent mold growth during ocean transit. For export pallets, we recommend combining HT with kiln drying for maximum protection.
Benefits of Heat Treatment
- 100% chemical-free process -- safe for food and pharmaceutical
- Meets ISPM 15 requirements for all 180+ participating countries
- Eliminates all wood-boring insects, larvae, and pathogens
- No residual odors, chemicals, or contamination risk
- Environmentally responsible -- no ozone-depleting chemicals
- Accepted by all major import countries without exception
- Reduces moisture content, lowering mold risk
- Does not compromise structural integrity of the wood
- Our kilns are audited annually by APHIS-accredited inspectors
- Full documentation provided for customs compliance
Weight Capacities by Type
Load capacity varies by pallet type, wood species, and construction. These are typical ratings for standard construction with standard nail patterns. Custom-engineered pallets can achieve higher capacities.
| Pallet Type | Dynamic Load | Static Load | Racking Load | Pallet Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stringer 48x40 (SYP) | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 37-48 lbs |
| Block 48x40 (SYP) | 2,800 lbs | 5,600 lbs | 2,500 lbs | 45-55 lbs |
| Stringer 48x40 (Hardwood) | 2,800 lbs | 5,600 lbs | 2,200 lbs | 50-70 lbs |
| Block 48x40 (Hardwood) | 3,500 lbs | 7,000 lbs | 2,800 lbs | 55-75 lbs |
| Heavy-Duty Block (Oak) | 4,000 lbs | 8,000 lbs | 3,200 lbs | 65-85 lbs |
| Stringer 48x48 (SYP) | 2,800 lbs | 5,600 lbs | 2,200 lbs | 42-55 lbs |
| Block 42x42 (SYP) | 2,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 38-48 lbs |
* Load ratings assume evenly distributed weight across the full pallet surface. Concentrated or point loads reduce effective capacity. Contact us for specific load testing data.
Nail Patterns & Construction Methods
The nail pattern is a critical factor in pallet strength and durability. We use premium ring-shank and helical-shank nails that provide superior holding power compared to smooth nails.
Standard Pattern
Two nails per board-to-stringer junction for standard loads. Spiral (ring-shank) nails provide 40% better holding power than smooth shank. This is our default for most applications and provides an excellent balance of strength and cost.
Reinforced Pattern
Three nails per junction for heavy loads or demanding handling conditions. Recommended for pallets that will be used in automated systems, high-rack storage, or transported long distances where vibration loosens fasteners.
Screw-Nailed
Threaded nails (screw nails) for maximum holding power and pull-out resistance. Required for certain military specifications and recommended for export pallets, heavy racking applications, and pallets subject to significant dynamic forces.
Moisture Content Standards
Standard Domestic
Below 25% moisture content. Air-dried or green lumber acceptable for most domestic shipping and warehousing applications.
Heat Treated (ISPM 15)
Core temperature reaches 56 degrees C for 30 minutes. Moisture content typically reduced to 18-22% as a byproduct of the heat treatment process.
Kiln Dried (KD)
Below 19% moisture content (often 12-15%). Required for pharmaceutical, cleanroom, and mold-sensitive applications. Reduces weight and shrinkage.
Environmental Benefits of Wood Pallets
Wood is one of the most sustainable packaging materials on the planet. As a natural, renewable resource, wood captures carbon during growth, requires minimal energy to process, and can be fully recycled at end of life. The wood pallet industry is a model of circular economy practices.
Carbon Sequestration
Every wood pallet stores carbon absorbed during tree growth. A typical 48x40 pallet sequesters approximately 27 lbs of CO2, keeping it out of the atmosphere throughout its useful life and beyond (when recycled to mulch or wood products).
Renewable Resource
US forests grow more wood each year than is harvested. Our SFI-certified sourcing ensures that for every tree used, more are planted. The US has more standing timber today than 50 years ago.
Circular Economy
Wood pallets enter a circular system: manufacture, use, return, inspect, repair, reuse. At end of useful life, they become mulch, animal bedding, compost, or biomass energy. Over 95% of wood pallets are recovered.
Low Energy Manufacturing
Producing a wood pallet requires approximately 1/6th the energy of producing an equivalent plastic pallet and 1/8th the energy of a steel pallet. Sawmills often power their operations with wood waste biomass.
Biodegradable
Unlike plastic or metal, wood pallets that escape the recovery system will naturally decompose without leaving persistent pollutants. A wood pallet in a landfill decomposes in 2-5 years.
SFI Certified Sourcing
We source from Sustainable Forestry Initiative certified suppliers. SFI certification ensures responsible forestry, biodiversity protection, water quality maintenance, and community engagement.
Industry Applications
Our wood pallets serve a wide range of industries, each with specific requirements for grade, treatment, size, and construction. Here are our recommendations for each sector.
Food & Beverage
Grade A HT Stringer 48x40ISPM 15 heat treatment required. Grade A or B. SYP or poplar preferred for clean appearance. Pallets must be free from mold, chemical contamination, and insect damage. FDA-compliant options available.
Pharmaceutical
Grade A HT Block 48x40Grade A only. Heat-treated, kiln-dried to below 20% moisture content. Clean, uniform appearance. Some facilities require fumigation-free certification. Full traceability documentation available.
Retail & Consumer Goods
Grade A Stringer 48x40Grade A for display-ready applications. Standard GMA 48x40. Half pallets (48x20) and quarter pallets (24x20) increasingly popular for in-store merchandising and club store displays.
Manufacturing
Grade B Block 48x40 or CustomGrade B or C for cost efficiency. Heavy-duty block pallets for machinery and heavy parts. Custom sizes for specific product lines. Returnable pallet programs reduce long-term cost.
Construction & Building
Grade C Hardwood Block CustomHeavy-duty hardwood pallets for concrete products, steel, lumber, and heavy equipment. Oversized dimensions common. Grade C acceptable. Weather treatment extends outdoor life.
Agriculture
Grade B/C HT Stringer 48x40Weather-treated pallets for outdoor field storage. Grade B/C recycled pallets offer best economics for seasonal use. Treatment against moisture and decay is recommended.
Automotive
Grade B Block 48x45Industry-standard 48x45 size. Block pallets preferred for 4-way access in assembly plants. Returnable pallet programs with durable hardwood or mixed hardwood construction.
E-Commerce & Fulfillment
Grade B Stringer 48x40Standard GMA 48x40 for warehouse compatibility. Grade B for cost efficiency. Consistent dimensions critical for automated conveyor and robotic picking systems.
Care & Maintenance Tips
Proper handling and storage can double or triple the lifespan of your wood pallets. Follow these guidelines to get the most value from your pallet investment.
Inspect Before Use
Check for broken boards, protruding nails, cracked stringers, and signs of decay before loading. Remove damaged pallets from service immediately to prevent product damage and worker injury.
Do Not Overload
Always respect the rated load capacity for your specific pallet type and loading condition (static, dynamic, racking). Concentrated point loads can exceed capacity even when total weight is within limits.
Proper Fork Placement
Center fork tines in the fork openings. Ensure forks extend at least 75% through the pallet. Avoid tilting loads or making sharp turns that create lateral forces the pallet was not designed to handle.
Avoid Dragging
Never drag a pallet across the floor. This damages the bottom boards and weakens the stringer-to-deck connection. Always lift pallets fully clear of the ground before moving.
Store Properly
Stack empty pallets on flat surfaces, no more than 15 high. Store under cover when possible. Keep off bare ground to prevent moisture absorption. Ensure air circulation around stacked pallets.
Repair Promptly
Fix minor damage (loose boards, backed-out nails) promptly before it becomes major damage. A $2 board replacement is far cheaper than discarding a $15 pallet. We offer repair kits and services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about our wood pallets. Can not find what you are looking for? Contact our team and we will be happy to help.
What is the most common wood pallet size in the United States?
The 48" x 40" GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) pallet is by far the most common, accounting for approximately 30% of all pallets produced in North America. It is the standard required by most major retailers, grocery chains, and warehouses. Two GMA pallets fit side-by-side in a standard 53-foot trailer, allowing 30 pallets per truckload.
What is the difference between a stringer pallet and a block pallet?
Stringer pallets use 2-3 long boards (stringers) running the full length to support the deck boards. They allow 2-way entry or partial 4-way entry when notched. Block pallets use 6-9 wooden blocks between the top and bottom decks, allowing true 4-way entry from all sides. Block pallets are stronger and more versatile but cost 15-25% more than stringer pallets.
Do I need ISPM 15 heat-treated pallets for international shipping?
Yes, if you are shipping wood pallets internationally. ISPM 15 is a global regulation adopted by over 180 countries that requires all solid wood packaging materials (pallets, crates, dunnage) to be heat-treated to 56 degrees Celsius core temperature for 30 minutes. This eliminates wood-boring pests. Pallets must bear the official IPPC wheat stamp. Non-compliant pallets can be rejected at customs, quarantined, or destroyed, causing costly delays.
How much weight can a standard wood pallet hold?
A standard 48x40 GMA stringer pallet made from Southern Yellow Pine has a typical dynamic load capacity (while being moved by forklift) of 2,500 lbs, a static load capacity (sitting on the floor) of 5,000 lbs, and a racking load capacity (supported only at edges in beam racking) of 2,000 lbs. Hardwood pallets and block designs can handle significantly more. Always verify the specific capacity for your pallet type and load conditions.
What is the difference between Grade A, Grade B, and Grade C pallets?
Grade A pallets are in premium, like-new condition with no broken boards, minimal staining, and clean appearance -- ideal for export and customer-facing uses. Grade B pallets are structurally sound with minor cosmetic wear, small repairs, and slight discoloration -- the best value for general warehouse use. Grade C pallets are budget-friendly with visible wear, multiple repairs, and staining, but still structurally safe for rated loads -- perfect for one-way shipping and internal transport.
How long do wood pallets last?
Lifespan depends heavily on usage conditions, handling quality, and pallet grade. A new Grade A softwood pallet in a well-managed closed-loop system can last 15-20 trips or 3-5 years. Hardwood pallets in similar conditions can last 5-10 years or 50+ trips. Recycled pallets average 5-10 additional trips after refurbishment. Proper handling (avoiding drops, dragging, and overloading) is the single biggest factor in extending pallet life.
Can you make custom-size wood pallets?
Absolutely. We manufacture custom wood pallets in any dimension from 12"x12" up to 72"x72" and beyond. Custom options include: specific wood species, special treatment (heat treatment, kiln drying, preservative treatment), custom nail patterns, branded markings, non-standard entry configurations, and engineered load ratings. Minimum order quantities may apply for truly unique sizes. Contact us with your specifications for a quote.
Are wood pallets recyclable?
Yes, wood pallets are one of the most recycled products in the world. The lifecycle includes: repair and reuse (the preferred option), recycling into mulch and animal bedding, conversion to biomass energy, and composting. Over 95% of wood pallets in the US are recovered for reuse or recycling. At Pallets Eco, we operate a full take-back and recycling program for end-of-life pallets.
What is the moisture content specification for wood pallets?
For standard domestic pallets, moisture content below 25% is generally acceptable. For export pallets requiring ISPM 15 heat treatment, the wood must reach 56 degrees C core temperature regardless of moisture content. For pharmaceutical and food applications, we can kiln-dry pallets to below 19% moisture content, which also reduces the risk of mold growth during storage and transit. Moisture content is measured with calibrated pin-type meters at multiple points.
How should I store wood pallets to maximize their lifespan?
Store pallets indoors or under cover whenever possible. Stack empty pallets no more than 15 high on flat, level ground. Keep pallets off bare earth to prevent moisture wicking. Ensure adequate air circulation around stacked pallets. Rotate stock (first-in, first-out) to prevent prolonged storage degradation. Inspect pallets before each use and remove any with structural damage. In outdoor storage, use pallet covers or tarps to protect from rain and UV exposure.
Get a Quote on Wood Pallets
Tell us your size, quantity, grade, and application requirements. We will provide a detailed, competitive quote within 24 hours -- usually same day.