The Top Myths About Wood Pallets

At first glance, the flat wooden structures sitting outside grocery stores, in the back of warehouses, or in work yards may not seem like much, but there’s a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to these simple structures.  What’s more? There is also a great deal of  misunderstanding when it comes to wood pallets.  Here we’ll explore the most common myths about wood pallets and offer the counterpoint so you get fact from fiction. Enjoy!

Myth #1: All Wood Pallets Are the Same Size

Fact: Wood pallet sizes can vary domestically and globally. The most common pallet size in North America is the 48”x40”. The US Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) recommended a standard pallet footprint of 48″x40″ to work with most material handling equipment and by default, it has become widley used accounting for 30% of all pallets. However, there are many other pallet size specifications in the US as well as in other countries who have differing standards. It's crucial to be aware of size and specifications based upon your industry needs, international shipping requirements, or when planning DIY projects. 

Our Fact:  Valleywood Pallets has a consistent supply of new and recycled 48”x40” inventory and can make any custom size pallet, A-frame, or crate. 

Myth #2: Pallet Wood Is Poor Quality

Fact: Pallet wood can vary in quality, but many pallets are made from durable hardwoods. New wood pallets are typically constructed with sustainably sourced, never used wood. Recycled wood pallets are reused and/or reconditioned with minor repairs so as to provide a more environmentally friendly and cost-efficient alternative. 

Our Fact:  For over 50 years, Valleywood Pallets focused on fabricating new and combo pallets that create the quality, strong base needed for most shipping and storage needs. 

Myth #3: Wood Pallets Are Free

Fact: While some can find pallets for free from warehouses, shipping centers, or local businesses, many local and national businesses sell (and buy back) both new and reconditioned wood pallets. Wood pallets for sale from a reputable, trusted pallet company have undergone an inspection process to ensure that their quality and efficacy for shipping, logistics, and storage meet certain standards.   

Our Fact: Valleywood Pallets promises competitive and fair pricing.  The company offers free quotes with transparent, trustworthy pricing details for buying or selling pallets 

Myth #4: All Pallets Are Load-Bearing Equally

Fact: Pallets are designed for different load capacities depending on their construction and materials. It's crucial to be aware of a pallet's load-bearing capacity to ensure safety and reliability.

Our Fact: Valleywood Pallets consults with our customers to understand all shipping specifications and needs.  

Myth #5: Pallets Are Always a Sustainable Choice

Fact: While repurposing pallets and keeping high quality recycled ones in use is environmentally friendly, it's essential to consider the sourcing of the wood used for new pallets and pallet repairs. Pallets using responsibly harvested or recycled wood contribute more positively to sustainability.

Our Fact:  Valleywood Pallets prides itself on sourcing wood from certified suppliers and utilizing strong QA practices when selecting the recycled materials used in combo pallet production.

          Myth #6: All Pallets Are Treated with Harmful Chemicals

Fact: While some pallets are treated with chemicals to prevent pests and decay, not all pallets undergo this process. Heat-treated (HT) pallets are an alternative that do not involve chemicals and is safe for use in DIY projects.

Our Fact:  Valleywood Pallets offers heat-treatment services for pallets, which is especially important for pallets being used internationally.  

There you have it - the top wood pallet facts vs. fiction.   Whatever your use and need for wood pallets is from shipping to storage to DIY projects, it’s always important to understand what you are working with and we hope this set of myth-busting facts has been informative and helpful.