Pallets
Wood and plastic pallets for warehousing, shipping, and material handling. Standard GMA, block, euro, and custom sizes available in new and graded used conditions.
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What Are Pallets?
A pallet is a flat, portable platform used as a base for assembling, storing, handling, and transporting goods as a unit load. Pallets are the unsung backbone of modern logistics -- nearly every product you purchase has traveled on a pallet at some point in its supply chain. The pallet industry supports billions of dollars in global trade every year, with an estimated 2 billion pallets in circulation in the United States alone.
Pallets are typically constructed from wood, plastic, metal, or composite materials. Wood pallets dominate the market, accounting for roughly 90-95% of all pallets in use. They come in two primary construction types -- stringer pallets and block pallets -- each offering distinct advantages depending on the application, racking system, and load requirements.
The standard North American pallet measures 48 inches by 40 inches (the GMA standard), but dozens of other sizes exist for specific industries and international markets. Choosing the right pallet size, material, and construction type directly impacts operational efficiency, product safety, and transportation costs.
At PackMesa, we supply both new and quality-graded used pallets in all major sizes and construction types. Whether you need a single stack of Grade B pallets for warehouse storage or a truckload of heat-treated export pallets, we deliver competitive pricing and reliable inventory from our Mesa, Arizona facility.
Specifications
Pallet Types
We carry all major pallet construction types. Each design offers specific advantages depending on your load, racking, and handling requirements.
Stringer Pallets
The most common pallet design in North America. Uses 2x4 or 3x4 stringers running lengthwise between the top and bottom deckboards. Available in 2-way and partial 4-way entry (when stringers are notched). Excellent price-to-performance ratio for standard warehouse and shipping applications.
- Most economical option
- Widely available
- 2-way or partial 4-way entry
- Easy to repair
- Ideal for push-back and drive-in racking
Block Pallets
Uses blocks of solid wood or compressed material at all four corners, plus the center and midpoints along each side (typically 9 blocks). Provides true 4-way fork entry, making them superior for operations that require access from any direction. Stronger and more durable than stringer pallets.
- True 4-way entry
- Higher load capacity
- Better for automated systems
- Longer lifespan
- Preferred by major retailers
Euro Pallets (EUR/EPAL)
Standardized block pallets measuring 1200mm x 800mm (approximately 47.2" x 31.5"). Governed by the European Pallet Association (EPAL) and used throughout Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Required for many international supply chains and retail distribution networks.
- International standard (EUR sizing)
- 4-way entry
- EPAL certified quality
- Fully compatible with EU logistics
- Ideal for export to Europe
Plastic Pallets
Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP) using injection molding or structural foam processes. Designed for clean environments such as food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and electronics. Available in nestable, stackable, and rackable configurations.
- No nails or splinters
- Moisture and chemical resistant
- Easy to sanitize
- Consistent weight and dimensions
- Exempt from ISPM-15 rules
Wood vs. Plastic Pallets
Both materials have their strengths. This comparison will help you decide which is right for your operation.
| Feature | Wood Pallets | Plastic Pallets |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $8 - $25 (new) | $30 - $120+ (new) |
| Lifespan | 3 - 5 years (avg) | 10+ years |
| Cost Per Trip | Lower initial, higher long-term | Higher initial, lower long-term |
| Weight | 30 - 70 lbs | 15 - 55 lbs |
| Load Capacity | Up to 5,000+ lbs | Up to 3,000 lbs (rackable) |
| Repairability | Easily repaired | Not repairable |
| Hygiene | Porous, can harbor bacteria | Non-porous, easy to sanitize |
| Moisture Resistance | Low (absorbs moisture) | High (waterproof) |
| Export Compliance | Requires ISPM-15 HT stamp | Exempt from ISPM-15 |
| Sustainability | Renewable, recyclable | Recyclable, longer life |
| Fire Safety | Combustible | Fire-retardant options available |
| Nails / Splinters | Yes, can snag or injure | No nails or splinters |
ISPM-15 Heat Treatment for Export Pallets
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is an international regulation that governs the treatment of wood packaging materials (WPM) used in international trade. Developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), it requires that all wood pallets, crates, and dunnage be heat treated to a core temperature of 56 degrees Celsius for a minimum of 30 minutes.
The purpose of ISPM-15 is to prevent the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases that can live in raw wood. Compliance is enforced at ports of entry worldwide, and shipments arriving on non-compliant pallets can be refused, quarantined, or destroyed at the shipper's expense.
All ISPM-15 compliant pallets bear the official IPPC stamp, which includes the country code, producer number, and the treatment mark (HT for heat treated or MB for methyl bromide, though MB is being phased out). PackMesa supplies ISPM-15 certified pallets for all export applications. Plastic pallets are inherently exempt from ISPM-15 requirements since they are not a natural wood product.
Quality Grading System
Every used pallet we sell is inspected and assigned a quality grade. You always know exactly what you are getting.
Brand new pallets manufactured to exact specifications. Full structural integrity, clean appearance, and consistent dimensions. Best for food-grade applications, export, automated systems, and situations where appearance matters.
Savings vs. New: 0%
Used once or twice with minimal wear. All boards intact, no major staining or damage. Structurally equivalent to new. Some may show minor forklift marks. Ideal for retail distribution, rack storage, and most shipping applications.
Savings vs. New: 30-40%
Moderate use with some cosmetic wear. May have repaired boards, slight staining, or forklift marks. Fully structurally sound. Best value for general warehouse use, shipping, and storage where appearance is secondary.
Savings vs. New: 50-60%
Heavy use with visible wear, possible board repairs, staining, and cosmetic damage. Structurally functional but not suitable for rack storage. Ideal for one-way shipping, floor storage, temporary use, or recycling programs.
Savings vs. New: 65-75%
Pricing Comparison
Used pallets offer substantial savings. Actual pricing depends on size, quantity, and current market conditions -- contact us for a custom quote.
| Pallet Type | New Price Range | Used Price Range | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48x40 GMA Wood (Stringer) | $10 - $18 | $4 - $10 | 40-65% |
| 48x40 Block Pallet | $15 - $28 | $6 - $14 | 45-60% |
| 48x48 Heavy Duty | $18 - $32 | $8 - $16 | 50-55% |
| ISPM-15 Heat Treated | $14 - $24 | $6 - $12 | 45-55% |
| Plastic (Nestable) | $30 - $60 | $12 - $30 | 50-60% |
| Plastic (Rackable) | $60 - $120 | $25 - $55 | 50-60% |
Prices are approximate and vary by quantity, condition, and market. Contact us for current quotes.
Common Applications
Industries Served
We supply pallets to businesses across all major industries in the greater Mesa and Phoenix metropolitan area.
How to Choose the Right Pallet
Selecting the right pallet involves matching the construction type, material, and size to your specific operation. Consider these factors.
1. Determine Your Load Requirements
Calculate the maximum weight your pallet must support in static (floor), dynamic (forklift), and racking configurations. Always choose a pallet rated above your maximum anticipated load.
2. Consider Fork Entry Needs
If your warehouse requires access from all four sides, choose a block pallet or notched stringer. If access from two sides is sufficient, a standard stringer pallet is more economical.
3. Evaluate Your Environment
Wet, cold, or clean-room environments favor plastic pallets. Standard warehouse and distribution environments work well with wood. Chemical exposure requires plastic or treated wood.
4. Check Export Requirements
International shipments require ISPM-15 certified heat-treated wood pallets, or you can use plastic pallets which are exempt. Domestic shipping has no treatment requirement.
5. Match to Racking Systems
Selective racking, push-back, drive-in, and flow racks each have specific pallet requirements. Racking loads stress pallets differently than floor storage. Verify compatibility with your rack manufacturer.
6. Calculate Total Cost of Ownership
Factor in purchase price, expected number of trips, repair costs, and disposal. For high-cycle applications (100+ trips), plastic pallets often have a lower total cost despite the higher upfront price.
Repair vs. Replace: A Practical Guide
Knowing when to repair and when to replace saves money and prevents safety incidents.
Repair When...
- Only 1-2 deckboards are broken or missing
- A single stringer has a minor crack (not a full break)
- Nails have popped out but the boards are intact
- Lead board (front deckboard) needs replacement
- Repair cost is less than 50% of replacement cost
- The pallet is a specialty or hard-to-source size
Replace When...
- Multiple stringers are cracked or broken through
- The pallet is visibly warped or twisted
- More than 3 deckboards need replacement
- Signs of mold, rot, or insect infestation are present
- The pallet has been contaminated by chemicals or fluids
- Repair cost exceeds 50% of a new or Grade A pallet
Pallet Maintenance Tips
Proper handling and maintenance extends pallet life, reduces costs, and prevents workplace injuries.
Inspect Regularly
Check pallets before each use for cracked stringers, broken deckboards, protruding nails, and signs of mold or pest activity. Remove damaged pallets from service immediately.
Store Properly
Store pallets in dry, covered areas when possible. Pallets stored outdoors absorb moisture, leading to mold, rot, and reduced load capacity. Stack no more than 15 empty pallets high.
Handle with Care
Ensure forklift operators engage forks fully before lifting. Dragging pallets, dropping loads, and partial fork engagement are the leading causes of pallet damage.
Repair Promptly
Small repairs (a single broken board or loose nail) are inexpensive and extend pallet life significantly. Delaying repairs leads to cascading damage and safety hazards.
Match Pallet to Load
Never exceed the rated load capacity. Overloading pallets causes board deflection, stringer failure, and creates dangerous situations in racking systems.
Rotate Your Stock
Rotate pallets in your facility so the same ones are not used repeatedly while others sit idle. Even wear distribution extends overall fleet life.
Industry-Specific Recommendations
Different industries have different pallet requirements. Here are our recommendations for common sectors.
48x40 GMA block pallets, Grade A or new. 4-way entry required for most distribution centers. Many retailers mandate block pallets specifically.
Plastic pallets or new wood pallets. FDA-compliant environments require non-porous surfaces. HDPE plastic pallets with antimicrobial additives are ideal.
Plastic pallets with smooth, sealed surfaces. Clean-room compatible. No wood allowed in most pharma facilities due to contamination risk.
Plastic pallets for chemical resistance. If wood is used, ensure it is compatible with the chemicals being stored. Spill containment pallets available for hazmat.
ISPM-15 heat-treated wood pallets or plastic pallets. Ensure the IPPC stamp is clearly visible. Euro pallets (1200x800mm) for European destinations.
48x40 GMA stringer or block pallets, Grade A or B. High turnover environments benefit from used pallets. Consider lightweight pallets to reduce shipping costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard pallet size in the United States?
The standard pallet size in the US is 48 inches by 40 inches, commonly referred to as the GMA pallet (Grocery Manufacturers Association). This size is used by approximately 30% of all pallets produced in North America and is the default for retail distribution, grocery, and general freight.
What does ISPM-15 mean and do I need it?
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a regulation that requires all wood packaging materials used in international trade to be heat treated (HT) or fumigated to prevent the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases. If you are shipping goods internationally using wood pallets, ISPM-15 compliance is mandatory. The pallets must bear the official IPPC stamp showing the HT mark, country code, and producer number. Plastic pallets are exempt from ISPM-15.
What is the difference between 2-way and 4-way entry pallets?
A 2-way entry pallet can only be accessed by forklifts from two sides (the front and back). A 4-way entry pallet can be accessed from all four sides. Block pallets provide true 4-way entry, while stringer pallets can offer partial 4-way entry if the stringers are notched. 4-way entry pallets are more versatile in tight warehouse spaces and are preferred for most distribution operations.
Should I buy new or used pallets?
It depends on your application. New pallets are best for food-grade operations, export (where consistent ISPM-15 certification is needed), automated warehouse systems, and customer-facing shipments. Used pallets are excellent for general warehouse use, floor storage, shipping within domestic supply chains, and any operation where cost savings of 30-75% are desirable without sacrificing structural integrity. Our Grade A used pallets are structurally equivalent to new.
How many pallets fit on a truck?
A standard 53-foot dry van trailer can hold approximately 20-22 standard GMA (48x40) pallets on a single layer, depending on how they are oriented. Loaded in the "pinwheel" pattern (alternating orientation), you can fit 22 pallets. Double-stacked, a trailer can hold 40-44 pallets. Flatbed trailers vary but generally accommodate 20-24 pallets per layer.
When should I repair a pallet versus replace it?
Repair a pallet when the damage is limited to 1-2 broken deckboards or a single cracked stringer, and the rest of the pallet is structurally sound. Repair costs typically run $2-$5 per pallet. Replace a pallet when multiple stringers are cracked, the pallet is warped, more than 3 boards need replacing, or the pallet has significant mold or contamination. The general rule: if the repair cost exceeds 50% of a new pallet price, replace it.
What is the weight capacity of a standard GMA pallet?
A standard new GMA stringer pallet typically supports 2,500 lbs as a static load (stationary on the floor), 2,200 lbs as a dynamic load (in motion on a forklift), and 1,400-2,000 lbs as a racking load (supported only on its edges in a rack). Block pallets and heavy-duty designs can handle significantly more, with some rated for 5,000 lbs or more in dynamic loading.
Do you offer pallet buyback or recycling programs?
Yes. PackMesa operates a full pallet buyback, repair, and recycling program. We purchase used pallets in any condition, from Grade A down to broken pallets suitable for repair stock or recycling. Contact us for current buyback pricing and pickup options in the Mesa, AZ area.
Get a Pallet Quote Today
Whether you need 10 pallets or 10,000, PackMesa delivers competitive pricing, fast turnaround, and reliable quality from our Mesa, AZ facility.
Tell us your size, quantity, grade preference, and delivery requirements. We respond to all quote requests within 24 hours.