The Complete Wooden Pallets Guide: Understanding Wooden Pallet Types and Wooden Pallet Grades

Pallets are generally classified in four ways: by pallet material, construction, size, and origin, and specialty purpose. Each type of pallet offers different advantages and disadvantages, pricing, and uses. What you may not know is that more than 90 percent of the pallets used domestically are wooden pallets. Wood pallets are used across virtually every industry and business sector due their versatility and relative low cost. 

In this wooden pallets guide, we take a deep dive into wooden pallet types and wooden pallet grades. Read on to learn more about wooden pallet types, grades, sizes, advantages and disadvantages, uses, and load capacities — plus our wooden pallets selection guide and best practices for selecting wooden pallets for your business. 

I: Wooden Pallet Types and Construction 

Wooden pallets are typically made for use with specific types of products and, as a result, come in a variety of types and construction designs. 

All wooden pallets are generally made up of three primary components: deck boards, stringers or blocks, and fasteners. Deck boards are the flat boards that comprise the top and bottom on a wooden pallet. Stringers or blocks, which we discuss in detail below, support the deck boards and weight of the wooden pallet. Fasteners include nails, staples, bolts, or screws that fasten deck boards to stringers or blocks. 

There are two types of face configurations for pallets: single and double faced. Single-faced pallets are constructed with a top deck (surface) but no bottom boards. Single-face pallets are best suited for one-way shipping and storage only (not for racking). Double-face pallets are constructed with decks on the top and bottom. They are best for long-term use, racking, and frequent handling.

Stringer vs. Block Pallets

Stringer pallets are constructed of three parallel support beams (stringers) running the length of the pallet and typically feature two-way entry. Stringer pallets are the most economical option, which is why they are typically used to reduce costs and for standard shipping. Stringer pallets are commonly used for transporting and warehousing retail and grocery products. The load capacity of stringer pallets ranges between 2,500 and 3,000 pounds.

In contrast, block pallets are constructed with nice blocks, each placed at the corners and center points of the pallet. Block pallets feature full four-way entry/access and cost 10 to 20 percent more than stringer pallets. They offer better weight distribution, easier handling, greater durability, and a longer lifetime. Block pallets are ideal for automated systems, heavy loads, racking, and frequent handling.  

Entry Configurations

As mentioned, wooden pallets come in a variety of entry/face configurations. Two-way entry configurations allow forklift entry from two sides only and typically come with a lower cost. Partial four-way entry configuration features notched stringers that allow limited four-way entry. Full four-way entry configuration allows entry from all sides and offers maximum flexibility.

II: Wooden Pallet Types: Species and Material Considerations

It’s also important to understand the differences between hardwood pallets, softwood pallets, and mixed wood pallets. Each option offers varying advantages and disadvantages relative to cost, durability, strength, lifespan, and weight capacity. It’s worth noting that availability and pricing for each option may vary greatly by geographic region. 

Hardwood Pallets

Hardwood pallets typically are made from oak, maple, hickory, or ash trees. They are higher density (40-50 pounds/cubic foot) than softwood pallets and offer greater strength and durability. While hardwood pallets are more expensive than softwood pallets, they usually have a five to 10 year lifespan. Hardwood pallets are heavier and more durable than other pallet types and their weight capacity is ideal for heavy loads (>2,000 pounds), multiple uses, pooling programs, and racking. 

Softwood Pallets

In contrast, softwood pallets are made from pine, spruce, or fir trees. They are lower density (25-35 pounds/cubic foot), lighter, and more affordable than hardwood pallets. However, their weight capacity typically is under 1,500 pounds and they have a three to five year lifespan. Softwood pallets are of adequate strength for many applications. They are ideal for lighter loads, one-way shipping, and budget-conscious applications. Notably, softwood pallets on average cost 30 to 50 percent less than hardwood pallets. 

Mixed Wood Pallets

Other wooden pallet types include mixed wood pallets, which balance cost with performance. Mixed wood pallets feature softwood deck boards and hardwood stringers or blocks. Recycled or remanufactured pallets frequently are constructed of mixed wood and are considered mixed wood pallets. 

Regional Considerations

Softwood and hardwood availability do vary according to geographic location. Within the United States, you’re likely to see more hardwood availability across the Midwest and East Coast. The West Coast typically has more softwood availability and in southern states southern yellow pine is readily available. Where you are geographically located impacts not only availability, but also pricing. 

Standard Wood Pallet Sizes and Specifications

Wooden pallets also come in variety of sizes and specifications according to usage and geographic area. Size matters because sizing impacts compatibility and efficiency relative to container sizes, warehouse racking, transportation, and regional shipping requirements. Here, we outline some of the most common and popular sizes for wooden pallets. 

North American Standards

Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) pallets: 48”x40” 

• Most common (35% of all pallets)
• Standard for grocery, retail, CPG
• Height: typically 5.5-6 inches
• Weight capacity: 2,500-3,000 pounds
• Optimized for standard trailers

Other Common Sizes

• 48" × 48": Drums, chemicals, telecom
• 42" × 42": Telecom, paint
• 48" × 45": Automotive
• 40" × 48": Dairy, cement
• 36" × 36": Beverage

International Standards 

European (EUR) Pallets: 31.5” by 47.2” (1200mm by 800mm)

• Standard throughout Europe
• Highly regulated specifications
• Licensed production (EPAL)

Key ISO Sizes:

• 48" × 40" (North America)
• 1200mm × 800mm (Europe)
• 1100mm × 1100mm (Asia)
• 1165mm × 1165mm (Australia)

Why Size Matters:

• Container optimization
• Warehouse racking compatibility
• Regional shipping requirements
• Transportation efficiency

Wooden Pallet Grades, Quality, and Load Capacity

As you consider wooden pallet types for your business application, you’ll want to consider wooden pallet grades, quality, and pallet load capacity as well. Wooden pallets are assigned grades that correspond with their relative quality and load capacities. Generally speaking, new pallets are of the highest quality, offer the maximum capacity, and are more expensive than other grades of pallets. Used or recycled pallets are of variable quality, have a shorter remaining life span, and are 30 to 50 percent cheaper than new pallets. With repaired or remanufactured wood pallets, any damaged components have been replaced, offering mid-tier pricing when compared with new or used pallets.  

Wooden Pallet Grades

Grade A (Premium) Wood Pallets

Pallets that are Grade A are in new or like-new condition. They are undamaged and structurally perfect. Grade A pallets can safely accommodate loads between 2,500 and 3,000 pounds. These type of pallets are ideal for export, customer-facing use, and high-value goods.

Grade B (Standard) Wood Pallets

Grade B pallets are still structurally sound but may show minor wear, slight cracks, or discoloration. Grade B pallets can safely transport or store loads between 2,000 and 2,500 pounds. This type of pallet is best for use in general warehousing and non-customer-facing usage. 

Grade C (Economy) Wood Pallets 

Grade C wood pallets typically show visible signs of war and may have been repaired. As a result, Grade C pallets come with a limited remaining life span. This type of pallet can safely accommodate loads between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds. Grade C pallets are well-suited for one-way shipping and short-term use. 

Pallet Load Capacity Types

Wooden pallets also are rated by type of pallet load capacity. Keep in mind that capacity is impacted by a number of factors, including: wood species and quality used to construct the pallet, construction method (stringer or block), board thickness and number, age and condition, and load distribution (uniform versus concentrated).

Three Key Pallet Load Capacity Ratings

The three most common load capacity ratings are:

Static load: weight when stationary is 5,000 to 10,000 pounds.

Dynamic load: weight during movement is 2,500 to 3,000 pounds. 

Racking load: weight in racking systems is 1,500 to 2,500 pounds.

ISPM 15 Compliance

Pallets that are ISPM 15 compliant are heat-treated to eliminate pests and pathogens using a chemical-free process. Pallets used in international shipping/exporting must be ISPM 15 compliant. Pallets stamped with a HT stamp indicate compliance with ISPM 15. 

Wooden Pallets: Selection Guide and Best Practices

As you contemplate which wooden pallet types are best for your business operations, be sure to also consider the following factors as part of your selection process.

Load Requirements

First, consider the load/product requirements when choosing wooden pallet types. Calculate how much weight the product will put on the pallets and be sure to choose pallets that can accommodate the weight of the load you’re transporting or storing. You’ll also want to factor in whether the load will be static, dynamic, or racked while stored on the pallets you’re considering. To be on the safe side, add 20 to 30 percent to the load as a safety margin and to address variations in product weight. 

Handling and Storage

Next, think about the type and width of the forklift(s) that will likely be used to move the load and choose your pallets accordingly. Also, consider whether you need two-way or four-way entry and if the palleted products will be stored on the floor or in racking. If you used automated systems in your operations, be sure that any wooden pallets you purchase are compatible with your automation system.

Trip Expectations

Another factor to consider is whether or not the pallets will be used for a single or multiple trips. If you anticipate that the pallets will be used one-way and disposed after shipping, opt for softwood, Grade C, and/or lower cost pallets. If you anticipate using pallets for multiple trips and multiple times, go for hardwood pallets of Grade A or B, as you’ll want a more durable option. Finally, if you participate in a pooling program, you’ll want to ensure the pallets you purchase meet the programs specifications. 

Industry Requirements

Some industries maintain specific pallet requirements. For example, exports must be palleted on wooden pallets that meet ISPM 15 heat treatment requirements. Food and pharmaceutical products must be transported and/or stored on new, Grade A pallets to adhere to strict cleanliness and safety standards. For retail, GMA standard sized pallets are most often used due to their clean appearance. When it comes to heavy industrial products, consider using block pallets and/or pallets with higher weight capacity ratings. 

Quick Inspection Checklist

Before using wooden pallets, check for:

• Cracked or broken boards
• Protruding nails and fasteners
• Missing deck boards
• Loose components
• Contamination or excessive wear

Reject pallets that include:

• Broken stringers or blocks
• Multiple missing deck boards
• Visible rot or decay
• Unsafe protrusions
• Capacity insufficient for load

Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways: Understanding Wooden Pallet Types and Wooden Pallet Grades

As you navigate pallet procurement for your company, it’s vital to understand how different wooden pallet types can meet your business needs. Also think about establishing pallet inspection protocols and building long-term relationships with quality pallet suppliers as part of your long-term strategy. Finally, consider sustainability and long-term impacts as you buy (and potentially sell or pool) wooden pallets. 

Check out these key takeaways from our complete wooden pallets guide and discussion above:

1. Wooden pallets remain optimal for most applications due to cost and versatility
2. Match pallet type and grade to specific application needs
3. Understand load ratings and safety margins
4. Consider total cost of ownership, not just purchase price
5. Regular inspection and maintenance maximize value and safety
6. ISPM 15 compliance essential for international shipping