🧱 Not All Pallets Are Created Equal
Pallets vary in size, material, and purpose. Choosing the right pallet depends on your commodity, weight, and storage method. Some pallets work best on racks, while others are ideal for floor storage. Understanding pallet types helps reduce damage, improve handling, and ensure safe delivery.
📐 Why Pallet Dimensions Matter for Freight Quotes
When requesting a freight quote, carriers often ask for pallet dimensions to ensure freight quote accuracy. This includes length, width, and height. Knowing your pallet size helps avoid pricing errors and ensures proper load planning. The most common pallet size in North America is 48 x 40 inches.
🌲 Wooden Pallets: The Longtime Standard
Wooden pallets are common in LTL pallet shipping options. In fact, they have been used for over 50 years. They reduce pilferage and help prevent freight claims. Innovations in pallet design now offer more options for size and material. Despite these changes, no universal pallet size exists in North America. The 48 x 40 pallet, created by the Grocer’s Manufacturer Association (GMA), remains the most accepted.
🧱 Stringer vs. Block Pallets
Stringer pallets use boards along the length, allowing two-way or four-way forklift entry. Block pallets are ideal for heavier truckload pallet types. They use wood blocks between the top and bottom decks. Choosing the right type depends on your product weight and handling needs.
🛠️ Skids vs. Pallets: What’s the Difference?
Many confuse skids with pallets. A skid is a pallet without a bottom deck board. Skids are often used for temporary storage or drag-and-drop movement. Pallets, with their full deck, offer better stability and stacking options. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right base for your shipment.
