Pallet Types — Your Best Choice Is What Works Best for You

The most common pallet used today for packing and shipping goods is a 48" x 40" wood pallet with 3-inch-wide boards. It is an inexpensive, easy-to-repair option for moving and delivering products and they are easily stacked for storage.

Wood pallets, however, are not the only option available today, and, depending on what products are being secured and shipped, they may not be the best choice for you. Plastic and metal pallets also are options for the shipping industry, and, while they are more costly than wood pallets, they have benefits that may make them more appropriate for your shipping needs.

Wood Pallets

The 48x40 pallet was established as the standard when shipping became a bigger industry around World War II. Today, there are six different international standard dimensions for wood pallets and even more in the US, the most used being the 48x40 GMA pallet.

• Cost-effective — Least expensive to make, durable if maintained, easy to repair.
• Versatile — Appropriate for a variety of storage needs and easily modified.
• Ideal for warehouse storage.
• Capable of carrying heavier loads than many plastic pallets.
• Ideal for open loop systems that don't reuse pallets, such as shipping overseas.

Plastic Pallets

Plastic pallet sizes are governed by the same standards as other pallets used in shipping but because they are molded, they can offer a wider range of styles and features. Their popularity continues to grow as part of the sustainable movement.

• Durable and long-lasting — Resistant to moisture, chemicals, and insects.
• Meet hygienic requirements — Easy to clean and sterilize.
• Higher fire safety rating than wood.
• Light weight and splinter free.
• Consistent quality and customizable — rackable and nestable for unique warehouse needs.
• Ideal for closed loop systems that allow reuse of pallets.

Metal Pallets

Metal pallets account for less than 1% of the pallet market, but they are crucial for industries shipping heavy loads, such as automotive and metal processing.

• Ideal for industrial applications — strong, lightweight, capable of heavy loads.
• Customizable — removable doors, open access, detachable panels, and legs.
• Fire resistant.
• Highly durable, with a lifespan two to three times that of plastic or wood pallets.
• In closed loop systems, longevity can mean cost savings despite higher manufacturing cost.

Choosing the Right Pallet

The best pallet for your business is the one that provides the best shipping protection for your goods and flexibility and durability for storage at a cost that makes sense. If you have questions, contact the experts at Tri County Pallet. We buy, sell, and recycle pallets for all types of industries.