Used Pallets
Quality recycled pallets — the smart, eco-friendly choice for your business
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Pallet Grading System
Every used pallet we sell goes through rigorous inspection and is assigned a grade so you know exactly what you're getting.
Grade A
PremiumLike-new condition. Minimal cosmetic wear, no structural damage. Ideal for retail, display, or premium applications.
- No broken or missing boards
- Minimal staining or marks
- Full structural integrity
- Clean and presentable appearance
- Suitable for automated systems
Retail, display, export, automated warehouses
Grade B
StandardGood working condition with minor cosmetic imperfections. The most popular choice for general warehouse and shipping use.
- May have minor board repairs
- Some cosmetic discoloration
- Structurally sound and safe
- Full load-bearing capacity
- Great value for money
Warehousing, shipping, general storage
Grade C
EconomyFunctional pallets with visible wear. Repaired where needed. Maximum savings for budget-conscious applications.
- Repaired boards as needed
- Visible wear and staining
- Meets safety standards
- Best price point
- Ideal for one-way shipping
One-way shipping, temporary storage, landscaping
Detailed Grading Criteria
Our grading process evaluates every pallet across 15 distinct inspection points. Each pallet is examined by trained inspectors who apply consistent, documented criteria to ensure you receive exactly the quality you ordered.
| Inspection Point | Grade A | Grade B | Grade C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Deck Board Condition | No cracks, splits, or damage | Minor surface cracks allowed (under 4") | Repaired splits and cracks accepted |
| Bottom Board Condition | All boards intact, no damage | Minor wear allowed, all boards present | Up to 1 replacement board allowed |
| Stringer Integrity | No cracks, notch damage, or splits | Hairline cracks only, no structural impact | Repaired stringers with companion boards |
| Fastener Security | All nails/staples flush and secure | May have up to 3 protruding nails (reset) | Refastened and reinforced as needed |
| Dimensional Accuracy | Within 1/4" of stated size | Within 1/2" of stated size | Within 3/4" of stated size |
| Board Thickness | Full original thickness maintained | Minimal surface wear (up to 1/16") | Moderate surface wear (up to 1/8") |
| Surface Staining | No significant staining or marks | Light staining allowed, no mold | Moderate staining, cleaned of mold |
| Moisture Content | Under 20% -- kiln-dry level | Under 25% -- air-dry level | Under 30% -- functional level |
| Contamination Check | No chemical, oil, or food residue | No chemical residue, minor marks OK | Cleaned and inspected for contaminants |
| Pest & Mold Inspection | Zero evidence of pests or mold | Zero active pests, no visible mold | Treated and cleared of any evidence |
| Weight Bearing Test | Supports rated load with no flex | Supports rated load, minor flex OK | Supports rated load at reduced rating |
| Forklift Entry Points | Clean entry, no obstructions | Clean entry, minor wood chips OK | Cleared of obstructions, fully accessible |
| Overall Appearance | Near-new, professional appearance | Working condition, minor wear visible | Functional, clear wear and repair marks |
| Branding / Markings | Previous marks sanded or minimal | Previous marks may be visible | Multiple previous marks common |
| Usable Life Remaining | 8-12+ additional use cycles | 5-8 additional use cycles | 3-5 additional use cycles |
The History of Pallet Reuse
The wooden pallet was invented in the early 1920s as a way to efficiently move goods using the newly developed forklift. By World War II, pallets had become essential to military logistics, with the US military using millions of pallets to move supplies across Europe and the Pacific. After the war, the surplus of military pallets created the first wave of pallet reuse.
The modern pallet recycling industry began in the 1970s when rising lumber costs and growing environmental awareness made it economically and ethically sensible to repair and reuse pallets rather than discard them. By the 1990s, pallet recycling had grown into a multi-billion dollar industry, with specialized companies collecting, inspecting, repairing, and redistributing used pallets across the country.
Today, approximately 70% of all pallets in the United States are recovered and recycled at least once. The pallet recycling industry employs over 45,000 workers nationwide and processes roughly 400 million pallets per year. What was once considered waste is now recognized as one of the most successful examples of circular economy practices in the industrial world.
In Wichita and across Kansas, the pallet reuse industry plays a vital role in supporting the agricultural, manufacturing, and aviation sectors that define our regional economy. By purchasing used pallets locally, businesses keep money in the community while reducing their environmental footprint.
Pallet Industry Timeline
First wooden pallets developed alongside early forklifts
WWII drives mass adoption -- US military uses 20M+ pallets
GMA establishes the 48x40" standard pallet size
Rising lumber costs spark the pallet recycling industry
Pallet recycling becomes a multi-billion dollar industry
ISPM-15 international phytosanitary standards adopted
Sustainability focus drives 70%+ pallet recovery rates
3+ billion pallets in US circulation, majority recycled
The Eco Numbers Behind Every Used Pallet
Every used pallet you purchase instead of a new one creates measurable environmental benefits. Here are the real numbers behind the sustainable choice.
Environmental Impact at Scale
Per 100 Used Pallets Purchased
- 1,200 lbs of CO2 emissions avoided
- 630 board feet of lumber preserved -- equivalent to 1.5 mature trees
- 310 kWh of manufacturing energy conserved
- 40 gallons of industrial water saved
- 1,050 lbs of solid waste diverted from landfills
- Equivalent carbon offset of driving 1,300 fewer miles
Per 1,000 Used Pallets Purchased
- 12,000 lbs (6 tons) of CO2 emissions avoided
- 6,300 board feet of lumber preserved -- equivalent to 15 mature trees
- 3,100 kWh of energy conserved -- enough to power a home for 3.5 months
- 400 gallons of industrial water saved
- 10,500 lbs of solid waste diverted from landfills
- Equivalent to taking 1.3 cars off the road for an entire year
Used Pallets vs. New Pallets: Full Comparison
Understanding the real differences between used and new pallets helps you make the best decision for your specific operation. Here is an honest, detailed comparison.
| Factor | Used Pallets | New Pallets |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Pallet | 60-70% less than new | Full retail price |
| Availability | Same-day in most sizes | 3-7 day lead time typical |
| Structural Strength | Grade A matches new; B/C slightly lower | Maximum rated capacity |
| Appearance | Cosmetic wear present, functional | Clean, uniform finish |
| Dimensional Consistency | Minor variation between units | Precise, uniform dimensions |
| Environmental Impact | Lowest carbon footprint option | Requires new lumber harvest |
| Automated System Compatibility | Grade A only recommended | All compatible |
| ISPM-15 Compliance | Select pallets available | Available on all orders |
| Customization | Limited to available stock | Built to any specification |
| Minimum Order | 1 pallet | Typically 10+ pallets |
| Lifespan Remaining | 3-12 cycles depending on grade | 10-15 cycles typical |
| Best Use Case | Warehouse, shipping, storage | Export, retail, automation |
Available Sizes
We stock the most common pallet sizes used in North American industry
Storage and Handling Tips for Used Pallets
Proper storage and handling extends the life of your used pallets, keeps your workplace safe, and maximizes the value of your investment. Follow these proven guidelines to get the most out of every pallet.
Store in Covered, Dry Areas
Prolonged exposure to rain and moisture causes wood to swell, warp, and develop mold. Store pallets under a roof, tarp, or covered area whenever possible. Indoor storage is ideal for Grade A pallets.
Stack Pallets Properly
Stack empty pallets no more than 15 high on a flat, level surface. Ensure stacks are straight and stable. Leaning stacks can collapse and cause serious injuries. Use a solid, compacted surface for stacking.
Rotate Your Inventory
Use a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system for your pallet inventory. Pallets that sit unused for months can dry out, warp, or become homes for pests. Regular rotation keeps your stock fresh and functional.
Inspect Before Each Use
Quick visual inspection before loading catches problems early. Check for broken boards, protruding nails, cracks in stringers, and signs of pest activity. A 10-second check can prevent a costly product damage incident.
Keep Away from Chemicals
Do not store pallets near solvents, fuels, pesticides, or strong chemicals. Wood absorbs vapors and liquids, which can contaminate future loads. Maintain at least 10 feet of separation from chemical storage areas.
Elevate Off Bare Ground
Pallets stored directly on dirt or grass absorb ground moisture from below. Place bottom pallets on concrete, asphalt, or sacrificial boards to create a moisture barrier between your inventory and the ground.
Report and Remove Damaged Pallets
Remove any pallets with broken stringers, split deck boards, or missing components from your active inventory immediately. Set up a designated area for damaged pallets awaiting repair or recycling.
Train Forklift Operators
Rough handling is the number one cause of pallet damage. Train operators to enter pallet forks cleanly, lift from center, avoid dragging, and set down gently. Proper handling can double the usable life of a pallet.
Match Pallet to Load
Do not overload pallets beyond their rated capacity. Use the correct grade and type for each application. A Grade C pallet used for a heavy racking application is a safety hazard -- match the pallet to the job.
Implement a Return Program
Set up a system to collect and return pallets from your customers. Many businesses will happily return pallets if you provide a convenient drop-off location or pickup service. This reduces your costs and waste.
Monitor for Pests
Check stored pallets periodically for signs of wood-boring insects, termites, or rodent activity. If you spot evidence, isolate affected pallets immediately and have them treated or disposed of properly.
Avoid Outdoor UV Exposure
Prolonged sun exposure degrades wood fibers, making boards brittle and more prone to cracking. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, cover the top of the stack and rotate pallets from top to bottom regularly.
Common Defects and How We Address Them
Used pallets can develop various defects from normal wear and tear. Our repair team addresses each issue using industry-best practices to restore pallets to full working condition. Here is what we look for and how we fix it.
Broken or Split Deck Boards
Impact from forklifts, heavy point loads, or drops during handling.
Damaged boards are removed and replaced with boards of matching thickness and width. Replacement boards are secured with ring-shank nails for superior holding power.
Cracked Stringers
Overloading, lateral forklift impacts, or natural wood aging and drying.
Minor cracks are reinforced with companion boards bolted or nailed alongside the damaged stringer. Severe cracks result in full stringer replacement or pallet recycling.
Protruding Nails
Repeated impacts loosen nails over time, causing them to back out of the wood.
All protruding nails are driven flush or replaced with new ring-shank nails that resist back-out. Stapled joints are reinforced or refastened as needed.
Missing Boards
Boards break and fall off during rough handling, or are removed for other purposes.
Missing boards are replaced with new or like-condition boards of the same species, thickness, and width. Fastener patterns match the original construction.
Warping or Twisting
Uneven moisture exposure, improper storage, or wood species prone to movement.
Mildly warped boards are planed or replaced. Pallets with structural warping that affects stability are recycled rather than sold. Only flat, stable pallets make it to inventory.
Mold or Mildew
Moisture exposure combined with warm temperatures creates ideal growth conditions.
Surface mold is cleaned and treated. Pallets are dried to below 20% moisture content. Pallets with deep mold penetration are rejected and recycled rather than cleaned.
Staining or Contamination
Spilled liquids, food products, chemicals, or environmental exposure during previous use.
Light staining is cosmetic and does not affect performance. Chemical contamination is tested with pH strips -- contaminated pallets are removed from inventory entirely.
Worn or Compressed Lead Boards
Lead boards (front edge) take the most abuse from forklift entry and dragging.
Heavily worn lead boards are replaced with fresh, full-thickness boards. We use hardwood for lead board replacements where possible for added durability.
Industry Standards for Used Pallets
The pallet industry is governed by a range of standards and regulations that ensure safety, quality, and international trade compliance. We adhere to all relevant standards and keep our operations current with evolving requirements.
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15)
The global standard for treating wood packaging materials used in international trade. Requires heat treatment to a core temperature of 56 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes, or methyl bromide fumigation. Treated pallets receive the IPPC stamp. We offer select used pallets with valid ISPM-15 certification for export use.
NWPCA Uniform Standard for Wood Pallets
Published by the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association, this standard defines grading criteria, dimensional tolerances, and performance requirements for both new and recycled wood pallets. Our grading system aligns with NWPCA guidelines to ensure consistency and reliability.
GMA Pallet Specifications
The Grocery Manufacturers Association specifies the 48x40 inch stringer pallet as the standard for the North American grocery and consumer goods supply chain. Our used 48x40 pallets are sorted and graded against GMA specifications, ensuring compatibility with grocery industry systems.
OSHA Pallet Safety Requirements
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets workplace safety standards that apply to pallet storage, handling, and use. We comply with OSHA stacking height limits, condition requirements, and worker safety guidelines in all our operations.
ASTM D1185 - Standard Test Methods for Pallets
The American Society for Testing and Materials publishes standardized methods for testing pallet performance including compression, bending, and impact resistance. We reference ASTM methods when evaluating the structural integrity and remaining life of used pallets.
FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Considerations
For food-contact applications, the FDA requires that pallets used in food transport be clean, in good condition, and free of contamination. Our Grade A pallets intended for food-industry customers undergo additional cleaning and inspection to meet FSMA expectations.
Why Used Is the New Smart
Choosing used pallets isn't just about cost savings — it's about making a responsible choice for the environment.