Pallets in Utah

Wood vs. plastic pallets

The first decision is material. Wood pallets are the industry default — inexpensive, repairable, high load capacity, and easy to source in volume. Plastic pallets cost more up front but are lighter, consistent in weight and dimension, won't splinter or harbor pests, are washable, and last for many more trips — which makes them the choice for closed-loop systems, food and pharma, cleanrooms, and automated racking and conveyor lines that demand a uniform pallet.

• Wood: lowest cost, highest availability, repairable, recyclable. Best for shipping, one-way loads and general warehousing.
• Plastic: lightweight, hygienic, dimensionally consistent, long service life. Best for closed loops, food/pharma, export (no ISPM-15 treatment needed), and automation.

Stringer vs. block pallets

Wood pallets come in two structural designs. Stringer pallets use two-by-four "stringers" running between the top and bottom decks and are typically two-way entry (notched for four-way fork access). Block pallets use solid blocks at nine points, allowing true four-way forklift and pallet-jack entry from every side — stronger, more durable, and the standard for block-style programs like CHEP. Block pallets generally carry more weight and survive more trips; stringer pallets are lighter and cheaper.

Recycled pallet grades: #1 vs. #2

Recycled wood pallets are sorted into grades. A #1 (Grade A) pallet has been repaired as needed, has no broken boards, and looks close to new — appropriate for shipping product to customers. A #2 (Grade B) pallet is structurally sound but more weathered and may have had stringer repairs; it is the economical choice for in-house movement, one-way shipments and non-critical loads. Buying recycled — especially #2 — is the single biggest way to cut pallet spend without sacrificing function.

ISPM-15 heat-treated pallets for export

Any solid-wood packaging crossing an international border must comply with ISPM-15: the wood must be heat-treated (HT) to kill pests and stamped with the IPPC "wheat stamp" mark. If you export, you need certified heat-treated pallets — using untreated wood can get a shipment quarantined or rejected at customs. Plastic pallets are exempt from ISPM-15 entirely, which is one reason exporters often switch to plastic for international lanes. We stock stamped HT pallets and can advise on the most cost-effective export option.

Custom sizes & pallet recycling

Beyond the 48"×40" GMA standard, we supply common alternate footprints (42"×42", 48"×48", 36"×36" and others) and build custom-sized pallets for oversized or unusual loads. If your operation generates surplus or broken pallets, ask about pallet buy-back and recycling — it keeps usable pallets in circulation, clears your yard, and can offset the cost of your next order.