Pallets might not get a lot of glory, but when it comes to modern logistics, they have definitely changed the game.
Pallets keep products organized and supported during transport and allow them to reach their destination safely. They make it easy to ship and store a huge variety of products across pretty much every industry.
If your business requires product shipping, it’s a good idea to become familiar with the most common pallet types and which are suited for each job. We’ve put together this helpful guide to give essential details on just that. Read on to learn more about the most common pallet types and which might work best for you.
Common Pallet Types
Wood pallets are by far the most common type of pallet in use today. The National Wooden Pallet and Container Association have put together a guide to develop quality measures and establish uniform standards for wooden pallets across all manufacturers, repairers, distributors, and users.
In addition to being the most common, wood pallets are also the most cost-efficient and easily customizable type of pallet. They’re a great all-around choice for a variety of manufacturers and are easily recycled or refurbished into new wooden pallets – making them an eco-friendly option as well.
Block pallets, sometimes referred to as deck-board pallets, typically have between four and twelve supports between the upper and lower decks and also feature four-way entry. These pallets are ideal for heavier loads and are one of the main styles of pallet design. They are also available without bottom boards.
Stringer pallets are another common type of pallet design, especially in the United States. These pallets feature stringers, or pieces of wood, between the top and bottom decks on opposite sides. This makes them two-way pallets but also makes them great for heavy loads.
Double-face pallets are made up of decks on the top and bottom. The bottom deck feature makes the pallet stronger and helps distribute weight evenly. There are reversible double-faced pallets that can be used on either side, top, or bottom. Non-reversible versions have one side with more planks for prolonged storage.
Solid deck pallets are pallets that don’t have any gaps or spaces on their top deck. These are advantageous when transporting smaller sized items – the continuous surface ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Which Pallet is Best for Your Business?
There are many different factors to note when deciding which pallet type is best for your business. Let’s break down some of the most important ones.
The first thing to take note of is the type of products you’re shipping. Heavier loads do best with block-style pallets since they’re able to handle more weight. Next, consider the dimensions of your product. The most common size for pallets in the US is 48×40 , which works across most industries.
You’ll also want to determine how often they’ll be moved around and whether they’ll need to be accessed from all sides. The type of equipment you’ll use to access the pallets, whether you have a forklift or a pallet jack, should factor in as well.
Also, keep in mind your shipping destination. Certain industries have specific laws and regulations surrounding pallet usage so, it’s important to make sure you understand and adhere to them.
Finally, you’ll want to consider your budget. Pallets come in many materials, each with varying price points, but wood is the most common and cost-effective option for use in the United States.
Selecting the wrong pallet type can be a costly and time-consuming mistake for your business. If you’re still unsure which pallet type would be best for you, contact Gorgo Group today. We are experts in every detail related to packing, shipping, and warehousing – and we’re happy to help guide you towards the right pallet type for your business needs.