Pallet Types Guide
Understanding different pallet constructions and their best applications to help you choose the right type for your needs.
Two Main Construction Types
The fundamental difference between pallet types is how they support the deck boards. Understanding this helps you choose the right pallet for your operations.
Stringer Pallets
The American Standard
Stringer pallets use three parallel pieces of lumber (stringers) running lengthwise to support the deck boards. The stringers are typically 2x4 or 3x4 lumber. This is the most common pallet type in North America, making up about 70% of all pallets.
Entry Type
2-way entry standard. 4-way partial entry with notched stringers.
Load Capacity
2,500 lbs dynamic, 5,000 lbs static (standard GMA)
Advantages:
- Lower cost than block pallets
- Easier and cheaper to repair
- Widely available throughout North America
- Compatible with most handling equipment
- GMA standard (48x40) is a stringer pallet
- Lighter weight for shipping savings
Best For:
Block Pallets
The European Standard
Block pallets use wooden blocks (typically 9 blocks in a 3x3 pattern) to support both top and bottom deck boards. This construction provides true 4-way entry and greater durability. The EUR pallet and CHEP pallets are block pallets.
Entry Type
True 4-way entry from all sides. No notching needed.
Load Capacity
Often higher than stringers—up to 6,000+ lbs static
Advantages:
- True 4-way forklift and pallet jack entry
- More durable and longer lasting
- Better for automated systems (AS/RS)
- Higher load capacities
- Preferred for international shipping (EUR standard)
- Lower damage rates in handling
Best For:
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Stringer Pallets | Block Pallets |
|---|---|---|
| Forklift Entry | 2-way (4-way partial with notch) | True 4-way |
| Cost | Lower ($8-18) | Higher ($15-30) |
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Repair Ease | Easy, cheap | More complex |
| Weight | 35-45 lbs | 50-70 lbs |
| Automation Compatible | Limited | Excellent |
| Common Sizes | 48x40 (GMA) | 48x40, 800x1200mm (EUR) |
Deck Configurations
Beyond the support structure, pallets differ in their deck board arrangement.
Single-Face
Deck boards on top only. No bottom deck. Lightweight and economical.
Pros
- + Lowest cost
- + Lightest weight
- + Easy stacking
Cons
- − One-way use only
- − Not for racking
- − Limited durability
Double-Face Non-Reversible
Deck boards top and bottom, but designed to use one side up.
Pros
- + Stronger than single-face
- + Racking compatible
- + Good durability
Cons
- − Cannot flip over
- − Heavier
Double-Face Reversible
Identical top and bottom decks. Can be used either side up.
Pros
- + Extends lifespan
- + Versatile use
- + Best durability
Cons
- − Highest cost
- − Heaviest
Solid Deck
No gaps between deck boards. Continuous surface.
Pros
- + No product fall-through
- + Easy cleaning
- + Smooth surface
Cons
- − Heavier
- − More expensive
- − Drainage issues
Specialty Pallet Types
Beyond standard wood pallets, specialized designs serve specific industries and applications.
Wing Pallets
Deck boards extend beyond the stringers on two or four sides, creating "wings" for easier handling.
Flush Pallets
Deck boards are flush with stringers on all sides. Clean, uniform edges.
Export Pallets
Heat-treated and ISPM-15 certified. Designed for international shipping compliance.
Plastic Pallets
Made from HDPE or PP plastic. Immune to moisture, insects, and contamination.
Metal Pallets
Steel or aluminum construction. Extremely durable and fire-resistant.
Presswood Pallets
Made from compressed wood fiber and resin. Uniform dimensions, no fasteners.
Corrugated Pallets
Heavy-duty cardboard construction. Lightweight and fully recyclable.
Nestable Pallets
Designed to nest inside each other when empty, saving 60%+ space.
Rackable Pallets
Reinforced construction specifically designed for rack storage systems.
Pallet Materials Comparison
Different materials serve different needs. Here's how they compare.
| Material | Cost | Durability | Weight | Best Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Softwood (Pine) | $ | Good | Light | General purpose, domestic shipping |
| Hardwood (Oak) | $$ | Excellent | Heavy | Heavy loads, multiple-use cycles |
| Plastic (HDPE) | $$$ | Excellent | Medium | Food, pharma, closed-loop systems |
| Metal (Steel) | $$$$ | Outstanding | Very Heavy | Heavy industry, long-term storage |
| Presswood | $ | Moderate | Light | Export, one-way shipping |
| Corrugated | $ | Low | Very Light | Air freight, displays, single use |
How to Choose the Right Pallet Type
Answer these questions to narrow down your best pallet option.
What is your load weight?
Under 2,000 lbs: Standard stringer pallet works fine. 2,000-4,000 lbs: Consider block pallets or reinforced stringers. Over 4,000 lbs: Block pallets, metal, or custom heavy-duty designs.
How will pallets be moved?
2-way forklift only: Stringer pallets are perfect. 4-way entry needed: Block pallets or notched stringers. Pallet jacks: Need sufficient clearance—6" standard entry.
Will you ship internationally?
Yes: Need ISPM-15 heat-treated wood OR plastic/metal/presswood. No: Any material works for domestic shipping.
Is hygiene critical?
Food/pharma: Plastic pallets recommended. Easy to wash, no splinters or harboring pests. General use: Wood is fine.
Single use or multiple trips?
One-way: Economy wood, presswood, or corrugated. Multiple uses: Higher-grade wood or plastic for ROI.
Will pallets be racked?
Yes: Need rackable grade with proper beam support. Weight rating for racking is typically 50% of static load. No: Any pallet type suitable for your load.
Pallet Types We Stock
Austin Pallets maintains inventory of the most common types. Custom orders available.
GMA Stringer (48x40)
Always in stock
Grades: A, B, C, New
Block Pallets (48x40)
Regular stock
Grades: A, B, New
Heat-Treated (HT)
Always in stock
Grades: A, New
Custom Sizes
Build to order
Grades: New
Need Help Selecting a Pallet Type?
Our experts can assess your needs and recommend the right pallet type for your application. Free consultation for all new customers.