Frequently Asked Questions

Pallet pricing depends on size, material, grade, order volume, and current lumber markets. Recycled pallets generally cost less than new ones, and per-pallet pricing usually improves at truckload quantities because delivery is spread over more pallets. Pricing is by quote from partner suppliers in our network: request a quote with your exact specifications and we will pass it to a supplier for current pricing.

Minimums are set by the partner supplier who fulfils your order and vary from supplier to supplier. As a general rule, pricing becomes more cost-effective at larger quantities because delivery costs are spread over more pallets. Smaller orders can often be accommodated, but the delivery cost per pallet will be higher. Full truckload orders typically achieve the best per-unit pricing.

Yes. Delivery is available through partner suppliers in our network serving San Diego County. Lead times and delivery fees depend on the supplier, the size of the order, and what they have in stock. Some suppliers can offer faster turnaround for in-stock sizes. Mention your timeline when you request a quote and the supplier will confirm what is possible.

Often, yes. Sampling is a good idea before any large first-time order, especially for recycled pallets where you want to verify the grade meets your expectations. Many partner suppliers can provide a small sample for your inspection before you commit to a full order. Ask about samples when you request a quote; terms are set by the supplier.

Often, yes. Partner suppliers in our network buy used pallets, especially standard sizes such as 48x40 in bulk quantities. Pricing depends on the condition, size, and quantity of the pallets you are selling. Severely damaged pallets with broken stringers may be taken at a lower price or at no charge for recycling. Send us your pallet count and condition and we will pass your request to a supplier for a buyback quote.

Scheduled pallet pickup is available through partner suppliers in our network. Once you agree on pricing with the supplier, they arrange a truck to collect your pallets on an agreed date. Make sure the pallets are accessible by forklift; loading arrangements vary by supplier. For ongoing pallet removal, many suppliers can set up a recurring pickup schedule (weekly, biweekly, or monthly) so used pallets do not pile up on your dock.

Partner suppliers generally take pallets in a wide range of conditions, from like-new to heavily damaged. Pallets in better condition command higher buyback prices. Even pallets that appear unusable often contain salvageable boards and stringers that can be used to repair other pallets. Pallets contaminated with hazardous materials such as toxic chemicals or biohazards are generally not accepted.

Pallets that cannot be economically repaired are dismantled for parts. Usable boards and stringers are pulled for use in repairing other pallets. The remaining wood can be ground into mulch, animal bedding, or biomass fuel rather than being sent to landfill. See our sustainability page for more on how pallet recycling works.

In most cases, yes. Reusing or repairing a pallet avoids building a new one, which reduces demand for new lumber and the energy used to produce it. Recycling wood that can no longer be repaired keeps bulky wood waste out of landfills, where it decomposes and can produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The exact benefit depends on how far pallets travel and how many more trips they make.

Yes, through partner suppliers in our network. Businesses that go through pallets regularly can arrange scheduled pickups with a supplier, who either buys the pallets back or hauls them away for recycling, depending on their condition and volume. Describe your volume and how often pallets build up when you request a quote.

In North America, the 48x40-inch GMA pallet is by far the most common size. In Europe, the 1200x800mm EUR 1 pallet dominates. In Asia, the 1100x1100mm T11 standard is most prevalent. Check our size guide for a complete comparison of all major standards worldwide, including dimensions, weight capacities, and applications.

Yes. Partner suppliers in our network can build custom pallets to a wide range of dimensions, from small display pallets to oversized heavy equipment platforms. Lead times depend on the supplier, the quantity, and the complexity of the design. Share your product dimensions and logistics requirements when you request a quote so the supplier can design a pallet that suits your load, trailers, and handling equipment.

Start by measuring your packaged product or unit load footprint. The ideal pallet should be 1-2 inches larger than your product on each side to prevent overhang while minimizing wasted space. Next, consider your transport mode (trailer, container, air freight) and storage infrastructure (racking, conveyor). For most domestic shipments in North America, the 48x40 GMA pallet is the right choice. For export, match the destination country's standard. If you are unsure, describe your product in your quote request and the partner supplier can recommend a size.

Grade A (Premium) pallets are in near-new condition with no repairs, clean wood, and no staining. Grade B (Standard) pallets have been used multiple times and may have 1-2 repaired boards with moderate weathering, but are structurally sound. Grade C (Economy) pallets show heavy use with multiple repairs and significant weathering, but still meet minimum structural requirements. Grading criteria vary somewhat between suppliers, so confirm what each grade means with your supplier. See our grading guide for typical criteria.

Lifespan depends on the grade, wood type, load weight, and handling conditions. A Grade A hardwood pallet used in a controlled warehouse environment will generally make more trips than a Grade B pallet, and Grade C pallets are best suited to one-way or short-cycle use. Pallets used in outdoor environments, extreme temperatures, or with very heavy loads will have shorter lifespans. Proper pallet handling — avoiding drops from height, not dragging pallets across concrete, and using appropriately sized forklifts — significantly extends pallet life.

Yes. Partner suppliers can supply ISPM-15 stamped pallets on request. ISPM-15 heat treatment raises the core wood temperature to 56°C (132.8°F) for a minimum of 30 minutes, eliminating wood-boring pests as required for international shipments, and treated pallets carry the official IPPC mark. Ask for heat-treated pallets when you request a quote; turnaround depends on the supplier.

Clean, high-grade recycled pallets are commonly used in food distribution, but suitability depends on your product and your facility's food safety rules. Pallets for food applications should be free of contamination, mold, chemical residue, and pest damage. Some operations require new or heat-treated pallets. If you have specific food safety requirements, include them in your quote request so the partner supplier can confirm what they can provide.

Pallet prices track lumber commodity markets. When lumber prices rise, new pallet prices tend to rise with them, which makes recycled pallets relatively more attractive during high-lumber periods. Recycled pallet prices also move with the market, but they are often less volatile than new pallet prices because their supply comes from pallets already in circulation.

Some suppliers offer fixed-price or term contracts for regular buyers. A fixed price protects your budget from lumber market volatility. Contract pricing usually depends on current market conditions, your projected volume, and the contract length, and suppliers may require a minimum monthly commitment. Include your projected monthly volume and preferred grade in your quote request and we will pass it to a partner supplier in our network.

We take requests from businesses in San Diego County; availability depends on partner suppliers in our network. Include your city or ZIP code in your quote request. Delivery timing and freight costs depend on the supplier and the distance.

It depends on the pallet size, how high the empty pallets are stacked, the pallet weight, and the trailer. A full truckload of empty 48x40 pallets is typically several hundred pallets; for 48x48 and larger sizes, capacity decreases due to the wider footprint. Your supplier can work out the exact truck capacity for your order based on the pallet dimensions, stack height limitations at your site, and weight restrictions. Truckload orders usually get the best per-pallet pricing because delivery cost is spread across more pallets.

Yes, most pallet deliveries require a forklift at the receiving location. Pallets are delivered stacked on flatbed trailers and must be unloaded with a forklift. If your site does not have a forklift, some suppliers can unload with a truck-mounted forklift or deliver smaller orders on a liftgate truck, usually for an additional charge. Mention your unloading capabilities in your quote request so the supplier can plan the right equipment.

Many partner suppliers can schedule delivery for a specific day and a morning or afternoon window. If you have a dock appointment system or a tight receiving window, mention it in your quote request so the supplier can confirm whether they can meet it. Weekend delivery may be possible by arrangement with some suppliers.

ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is an international standard, adopted by many countries, that requires solid wood packaging materials used in international trade to be treated to prevent the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases. If you are shipping products internationally using wood pallets, crates, or dunnage, ISPM-15 applies to you. The regulation requires heat treatment (raising the wood core temperature to 56°C for 30 minutes) or methyl bromide fumigation (now restricted in many countries), and the pallet must be stamped with the official IPPC mark. Non-compliant shipments can be refused entry, quarantined, or destroyed at the destination port. Check the destination country's current requirements before you ship.

Kiln time depends on the wood species, moisture content, and kiln load size. Softwoods like pine and spruce generally reach the required core temperature faster than dense hardwoods like oak and maple. Green (unseasoned) wood takes longer than kiln-dried wood because the moisture must be driven off first. Overall turnaround from order to pickup or delivery depends on the supplier's kiln schedule, so ask about timing when you request a quote.

Heat treatment at ISPM-15 temperatures (56°C / 132.8°F) does not significantly reduce the structural strength of pallet wood. These temperatures are well below the point where heat starts to degrade wood fibers. However, heat treatment does reduce the moisture content of the wood, which can cause minor shrinkage and may slightly loosen nail joints. After treatment, pallets should be stored in a dry environment to prevent re-absorption of moisture.

Yes, recycled pallets can be heat treated to meet ISPM-15 requirements just like new pallets. The only requirement is that the wood itself reaches the required core temperature — the age or previous use of the pallet is irrelevant to the treatment process. Partner suppliers can supply heat-treated recycled pallets on request. This is a popular option for companies that want the cost savings of recycled pallets for their export shipments. Keep in mind that a pallet that is repaired or remanufactured may need to be re-treated and re-marked; confirm the requirements with your supplier.

Lead times for custom pallets depend on the supplier, the quantity, the complexity of the design, and lumber availability. Simple custom sizes (standard construction but non-standard dimensions) are usually quicker than complex designs with reinforced stringers, special deck patterns, or painted or branded finishes. For very large orders, suppliers may produce and deliver in batches. The supplier will confirm a lead time with your quote.

Often, yes. Common pallet species include Southern Yellow Pine, oak, maple, and poplar, and suppliers can source other species on request, which may add to the lead time. If you need a specific species for regulatory, performance, or customer requirements, say so when requesting a quote and the partner supplier will confirm availability and pricing.

Some partner suppliers offer branding and painting for pallets used in customer-facing applications such as retail floor displays, trade shows, and promotional events. Options can include stenciled logos, painted decks, and printed labels. Expect a per-unit upcharge and possibly a minimum order to cover setup costs. Describe what you need in your quote request and we will check with suppliers in our network.

Yes. Partner suppliers who build custom pallets can design one around your product. The process starts with your product specifications: packaged dimensions, unit weight, stacking configuration, and how many units you want per pallet layer. A good design also accounts for your transport mode (truck, container, air freight), storage method (racking, floor stacking, conveyor), and any regulatory requirements (ISPM-15, food safety). Ask the supplier for a dimensional drawing and cost estimate before production begins.

Oversized pallets up to roughly 10 feet long can typically be built from standard lumber, with the exact maximum depending on the supplier. Larger pallets are possible with engineered lumber or laminated beams, but they require custom structural analysis to ensure adequate load capacity. For oversized pallets, block construction is often recommended rather than stringer construction because blocks provide better load distribution across the larger span. The practical maximum is usually limited by your forklift capacity and doorway clearances. Share your application requirements in your quote request and the partner supplier can recommend a design.