We have put together the below information on pallet sizes and specs as a useful reference for all our customers whether frequent users of our pallet shipping service or just adhoc clients of our pallet delivery and pallet storage services. For our quick Pallet Size Reference Guide, click here.
Pallet construction & Types of Pallet
Pallets come in all manner of sizes and configurations, and for the first time user being asked whether their stock is on Standard or Euro pallets can be an unexpected hurdle, especially if the stock is not in the same location as they are. All pallets fall into two very broad categories: “stringer” pallets and “block” pallets.
Stringer pallet
Stringer pallets use a frame of three parallel pieces of timber (called stringers). The top deckboards are then affixed to the stringers to create the pallet structure. Stringer pallets are also known as “two-way” pallets, since a pallet-truck may only lift it from two directions instead of four. Forklifts can lift a stringer pallet from all four directions, though lifting by the stringers is more secure.
Block pallet
Block pallets (also referred to as Manoj pallets) are typically stronger than stringer pallets. Block pallets utilize both parallel and perpendicular stringers to better facilitate efficient handling. A block pallet is also known as a “four-way” pallet, since a pallet-truck may be used from any side to move it.
Materials used to make pallets
The cheapest pallets are made of softwood are often considered expendable, to be discarded as trash along with other wrapping elements, at the end of the trip. These pallets are simple stringer pallets, and liftable from two sides. For obvious reasons these are most frequently used for all our fulfilment services and for most of our pallet storage requirements.
Pallets can also be made from hardwood, plastic, paper or cardboard, aluminum and even steel. The pallet construction specifications will depend on the pallet’s intended use: general, FDA, storage, chemical, export; the expected load weight; type of wood desired: recycled, hard, soft, kiln Dried or combo (new & recycle); and even the type of fasteners desired to hold the pallet together: staples or nails can all be specified depending on what ultimate use and destination the pallet and cargo have.
Paper pallets are often used for light loads, but engineered paper pallets are increasingly used for loads that compare with wood. Paper pallets are also used where recycling and easy disposal is important.
Plastic pallets are usually extremely durable, and resist weathering, rot, chemicals and corrosion as well as often being stackable . Plastic pallets are exempt by inspection for biosafety concerns where goods are crossing international borders, and are easily sanitized for international shipping.
Steel pallets are strong and are used for heavy loads, high-stacking loads, long term dry storage, and loads moved by abusive logistic systems. They are often used for military ammunition. Metal pallets make up less than 1% of the market. Materials include carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Of these, carbon steel offers excellent durability at the lowest cost. Stainless steel doesn’t require a paint coating, and is preferred for such applications as clean room environments. Aluminum offers the durability of steel at a lighter weight. Carbon steel units are expensive compared to wood, and stainless and aluminum cost about 2-3 times that of carbon steel. Long term costs, however, can be lower than wood.
Aluminum pallets are stronger than wood or plastic, lighter than steel, and resist weather, rotting, plastic creep and corrosion. They are sometimes used for air-freight, long-term outdoor or at-sea storage, or military transport.
