Pallet Types

Introduction to Pallets

Pallets are essential platforms designed for supporting, moving, and transporting goods throughout the supply chain. These fundamental tools serve as the backbone of warehouse management, logistics, and distribution operations across Canada and internationally. Whether you're managing inventory in Quebec City, shipping products across Canada, or exporting goods globally, pallets provide the standardized solution that keeps supply chains moving efficiently.

The use of standardized pallet types significantly improves operational efficiency while reducing overall costs. By selecting the appropriate pallet for your specific application, you can optimize warehouse space utilization, streamline loading and unloading processes, minimize product damage during transit, and ensure compatibility with modern handling equipment and automation systems.

Pallet Material Types

Wood Pallets

Wood pallets represent the most widely used pallet type throughout North America, including Quebec and across Canada. Known for their exceptional strength and durability, wood pallets are typically constructed from hardwoods such as oak, maple, and ash, making them ideal for supporting heavy loads in demanding industrial applications.

The advantages of wood pallets include:

• Cost-effectiveness: Wood pallets offer the best value compared to alternative materials, making them the preferred choice for businesses of all sizes
• Easy customization: Wood construction allows for custom sizing and specifications to meet unique product requirements
• Repairability: Damaged wood pallets can be easily repaired, extending their useful life and reducing replacement costs
• Sustainability: Wood pallets are recyclable and can be repurposed for various applications, supporting environmental responsibility
• Industry acceptance: Wood pallets are universally accepted across all industries and transportation networks
• Strength: The natural properties of hardwood provide superior load-bearing capacity for even the heaviest goods

Plastic Pallets

Plastic pallets offer lightweight durability combined with excellent resistance to moisture, chemicals, and biological contamination. These characteristics make them particularly valuable in industries where hygiene and cleanliness are paramount, such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, and healthcare facilities.

While plastic pallets have higher upfront costs compared to wood alternatives, they provide specific benefits including consistent dimensions, lighter weight for reduced shipping costs, and resistance to pest infestation. However, it's important to note that plastic pallets cannot be repaired when damaged and typically require complete replacement, which can impact long-term cost considerations.

Metal Pallets

Metal pallets, constructed from aluminum or steel, provide exceptional strength and durability for the most demanding applications. These pallets excel in environments requiring maximum load capacity, fire resistance, or exposure to extreme temperatures. However, their higher cost and substantially greater weight make them less common in general applications, reserving their use primarily for specialized heavy-duty industries such as aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and metal processing.

Pallet Entry Type Classification

Understanding how forklifts and pallet jacks can access your pallets is crucial for operational efficiency. Pallets are classified into three primary types based on entry conditions:

Two-Way Entry Pallets

Two-way entry pallets can only be entered from two opposite ends. This design features unnotched stringers that provide stronger construction, making these pallets ideal for heavy loads such as cement, building materials, bricks, and other construction products. The solid stringer design offers superior strength at a lower cost compared to four-way entry alternatives. These pallets are commonly used in applications where loads remain stationary or where handling equipment consistently approaches from the same direction.

Partial Four-Way Entry Pallets

Partial four-way entry pallets can be entered from all four sides by forklift tines, but only from two sides by pallet jacks due to the stringer configuration. The stringers feature notches that allow forklift entry while maintaining structural integrity. This design provides greater flexibility in warehouse operations and loading dock configurations while remaining more economical than full four-way entry options.

Full Four-Way Entry Pallets (Block Pallets)

Full four-way entry pallets, also known as block pallets, can be lifted from any of the four sides by both forklifts and pallet jacks. Instead of traditional stringers, these pallets are constructed with solid wood blocks positioned between the top and bottom deck boards. This configuration provides maximum flexibility for handling equipment, improves maneuverability in tight warehouse spaces, and generally offers greater durability compared to stringer pallet designs. Block pallets are preferred in high-density storage facilities and operations utilizing automated handling systems.

Standard Construction Types

Stringer Pallets

Stringer pallets are the most common pallet type in Canada and throughout North America. These pallets utilize horizontal 2×4-inch boards called stringers that run parallel to the deck boards. Typically arranged in sets of three (two outer stringers and one center stringer), this design offers excellent cost efficiency while providing adequate strength for most applications. Stringer pallets can be manufactured as two-way or partial four-way entry configurations depending on whether the stringers are notched.

Block Pallets

Block pallets are constructed with solid wood blocks or composite materials positioned between the top and bottom deck boards, eliminating the need for traditional stringers. These pallets feature deck boards on both the top and bottom surfaces, creating a more robust structure that allows true four-way entry from any side. Block pallets generally provide superior durability compared to stringer designs and are often specified for heavy-duty applications, international shipping, or when maximum handling flexibility is required.

Skid Pallets

Skid pallets represent the simplest pallet design, featuring a single-deck load platform with no bottom deck boards. The load sits directly on the stringers or runners. This lightweight and cost-effective design is commonly used for heavy-duty applications where bottom deck boards are unnecessary, such as machinery bases, construction materials, and permanent storage applications. Skids cannot be lifted with pallet jacks and require forklift handling.

Deck Surface Modifications

Solid Deck Pallets

Solid deck pallets feature no gaps between deck boards or utilize a single solid sheet surface material such as plywood. This configuration provides a smooth, even surface that prevents small items from falling through and protects products from damage due to uneven support. Solid deck pallets are ideal for transporting bagged products, small packaged goods, or items with irregular bases that require continuous support.

Double-Face Pallets

Double-face pallets feature deck boards on both the top and bottom surfaces, distributing weight more evenly across the pallet structure. These pallets are available in two configurations: reversible (where both faces are identical and the pallet can be flipped and used from either side) and non-reversible (where the top and bottom decks differ in board spacing or thickness). Double-face pallets are particularly suited for heavier loads, racked storage applications, and situations requiring maximum strength and stability.

Winged/Double-Wing Pallets

Winged pallets, also called double-wing pallets, feature deck boards that overhang beyond the stringers on two or all four sides. This design distributes loads more effectively across the pallet surface and accommodates larger or oddly-shaped products that extend beyond standard pallet dimensions. The overhanging edges also facilitate shrink-wrapping by providing a secure base for film attachment. Winged pallets are commonly used in the beverage industry and for bulk shipping applications.

Standard North American Pallet Sizes

Understanding standard pallet sizes is essential for optimizing warehouse space, container loading, and transportation efficiency. Here are the most common pallet sizes used throughout Canada and North America:

48" x 40" (GMA Standard)

This is the most common pallet size in North America, accounting for approximately 30% of all new wood pallets produced in the United States and widely used throughout Canada. Specifications include a maximum load capacity of 4,592 lbs, weight of approximately 37 lbs, and height of 6.5 inches. This size is the standard for grocery, general warehousing, retail distribution, and consumer goods industries.

42" x 42"

With a maximum load capacity of 4,445 lbs, this square pallet configuration is the primary standard for the telecommunications industry. It's also widely used in the paint and technical coatings industries due to its efficient use of space when handling drums and cylindrical containers.

48" x 48"

This larger square pallet offers a maximum load capacity of 4,673 lbs and is commonly specified for drums, bulk chemicals, and heavy-duty industrial applications. The square configuration optimizes floor space utilization in storage areas.

40" x 48"

Supporting up to 3,696 lbs, this pallet size is commonly used for dry goods, dairy products, and produce distribution. The dimensions facilitate efficient loading in refrigerated trailers and storage facilities.

48" x 45"

This is the automotive industry standard pallet size, specifically designed to accommodate automotive parts, components, and assemblies. Custom designs within this size category are common to meet specific automotive manufacturer requirements.

36" x 36"

The beverage industry standard, this compact pallet size facilitates quick loading and unloading of bottled and canned beverages. The square configuration provides stability for stacked products while maximizing storage density.

Additional standard sizes include 44" x 44", 48" x 36", 48" x 42", and 40" x 40", each with specific load capacities and industry applications tailored to particular product types and handling requirements.

Industry-Specific Pallet Applications

Glass & Can Pallets

Glass and can pallets are engineered with exceptional sturdiness to support the extreme weight of filled bottles and cans. These pallets often feature custom-made specifications with standard sizes of 56" x 44" for glass containers and 44" x 56" for cans. The deck surface is typically solid and flat to prevent rolling and provide maximum stability during stacking and transportation.

Beverage Pallets

Specifically designed for bottled and canned drinks, beverage pallets utilize the standard 36" x 36" size to facilitate quick loading and unloading in high-volume distribution operations. These pallets are optimized for the weight distribution characteristics of liquid products and often feature reinforced construction to handle repeated use in fast-paced environments.

Automotive Pallets

The automotive industry relies on the 48" x 45" standard with extensively customized designs to accommodate unique automotive parts and components. These pallets are engineered to handle specific shapes, sizes, and weights of automotive assemblies, often incorporating special fixtures, supports, or protective features to prevent damage during handling and transportation.

Chemical Pallets

Chemical pallets are classified from CP1 through CP9 according to standardized specifications designed for safe chemical handling. These pallets are constructed from treated wood or high-density plastic materials that resist chemical corrosion and prevent contamination. They comply with VCI (Verband der Chemischen Industrie) and EPAL standards, ensuring safe transport of hazardous materials throughout supply chains.

Telecom Pallets

The 42" x 42" telecom pallet was originally designed for military use (specifically for mortar rounds) and has been adapted as the primary standard for the telecommunications industry. This size is also prevalent in the paint and technical coatings industries due to its efficient handling of cylindrical containers and technical equipment.

International/European Pallet Standards

For Quebec-based companies engaged in international trade, understanding European pallet standards is essential:

EUR-1 (800 x 1200 mm)

Measuring 31.5" x 47.24" with a load capacity of 2,490 kg, the EUR-1 is the most common European pallet. All EUR pallets must display the official EUR stamp and be manufactured by certified producers. These pallets are strictly regulated by the European Pallet Association (EPAL).

EUR-2 (1200 x 1000 mm)

Dimensions of 47.24" x 39.37" make this a versatile size for European operations. Like all EUR pallets, it requires participation in pool swap agreements for cross-border use.

EUR-3 (1000 x 1200 mm)

Measuring 39.37" x 47.24", this configuration provides an alternative to the EUR-1 for specific loading requirements. All EUR pallets operate under the EPAL pool system, which governs exchange and quality standards across European borders.

Understanding these European standards is particularly important for Quebec exporters shipping to European markets, as compliance with EPAL requirements may be mandatory for certain trade routes.

Load Capacity & Specifications

Load-bearing capacity is determined by multiple interrelated factors that must be carefully considered when selecting pallets for your application. Key factors include pallet construction type (stringer versus block design), the number and positioning of stringers or blocks, deck board thickness and spacing, wood species and grade quality, fastener type and quality, and the specific handling conditions under which the pallet will be used.

It's important to understand that static load capacity (weight supported while stationary on the ground or storage rack) is typically 2-3 times higher than dynamic load capacity (weight supported during handling and movement). For example, a pallet with a dynamic capacity of 2,000 lbs might safely support 4,000-6,000 lbs when stationary.

When specifying pallets for your operation, complete specifications should outline overall dimensions, wood species and grade, fastener specifications (nail type, size, and spacing), load-bearing capacity for both static and dynamic conditions, handling equipment requirements (forklift, pallet jack, or both), and any special protection needs such as heat treatment for export compliance.

Choosing the Right Pallet Type

Selecting the appropriate pallet type requires careful consideration of multiple operational factors:

Product Size and Weight: Ensure the pallet dimensions accommodate your product footprint with adequate overhang protection. Verify that load capacity ratings exceed your maximum product weight with an appropriate safety factor.

Transportation Method: Confirm that entry type (two-way or four-way) matches your handling equipment. Consider whether you'll be using forklifts, pallet jacks, conveyors, or automated systems, as each has specific pallet requirements.

Warehouse and Storage Requirements: Evaluate whether pallets will be floor-stacked, placed on warehouse racking systems, or moved through automated storage and retrieval systems. High-density storage operations often benefit from block pallets with four-way entry.

Industry Regulations and Standards: Certain industries mandate specific pallet types, sizes, or materials. Food and pharmaceutical industries often require plastic pallets or specially treated wood pallets to meet hygiene standards.

Load Stability and Protection: Consider whether your products require solid deck surfaces, additional support, or special features to prevent shifting during transportation. Fragile or irregularly shaped items may require custom pallet configurations.

Cost Considerations and Budget: Balance initial pallet cost against expected lifespan, repairability, and replacement frequency. Wood pallets typically offer the best value for most applications, while plastic pallets may prove cost-effective in specific long-term scenarios.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Wood pallets from sustainably managed forests offer renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable options. Consider your company's environmental commitments and customer expectations regarding sustainability.

Stacking Requirements: Determine whether loaded pallets need to be stacked during storage or transportation. Double-face pallets with bottom deck boards distribute weight more effectively when stacking loaded pallets.

Export & Compliance Information for Quebec/Canadian Operations

For companies in Quebec City and across Canada engaged in international trade, compliance with ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is mandatory for export operations. This international standard was established to prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases through wood packaging materials.

Export pallets must undergo heat treatment to core temperature specifications and receive proper certification before international shipment. The ISPM-15 process includes complete debarking of all wood components, heat treatment to specified temperatures for required durations, certification by approved treatment facilities, and proper marking with the internationally recognized ISPM-15 stamp indicating country code, treatment facility, and treatment method.

This compliance is particularly relevant for Quebec-based companies exporting goods from Canada to international markets. Non-compliant wood packaging materials may be rejected at border crossings, resulting in costly delays, mandatory re-treatment, or destruction of packaging materials. Working with certified pallet suppliers who understand ISPM-15 requirements ensures seamless international shipping operations.

Technical Specifications Detail

Professional pallet specifications follow standardized formats that ensure consistent quality and performance:

Deck Board Specifications: Typical deck boards measure ¾" to 1" in thickness and 3½" to 5½" in width. Spacing between boards is typically ½" to ¾" for ventilation and drainage while maintaining load stability.

Stringer Specifications: Standard stringers measure 2" x 4" (actual dimensions approximately 1½" x 3½") and are constructed from hardwood species appropriate for the intended load capacity.

Deck Board Count: Standard configurations typically feature 7-9 deck boards on top surfaces. Bottom deck boards (when present) may number 3-5 boards depending on pallet design.

Fastener Specifications: Ring-shank or screw-shank nails provide superior holding power compared to smooth-shank alternatives. Nail specifications include diameter, length, and spacing requirements based on load capacity needs.

Dimensional Tolerances: Industry standards typically allow ±3mm (approximately ⅛") for major dimensions to accommodate natural wood variation while maintaining compatibility with handling equipment.

Entry Height: Minimum entry height for forklift tines typically measures 3½" to ensure compatibility with standard handling equipment.

Weight Specifications: Standard 48" x 40" wood pallets typically weigh 35-40 lbs, though weight varies based on wood species, moisture content, and construction details.

Compliance Standards: Quality pallets conform to recognized standards including ANSI MH1-2021 (American National Standards Institute Materials Handling), NWPCA Uniform Standard for Wood Pallets, and ISO 6780 (International Organization for Standardization flat pallet specifications).