Know your pallets
A quick, plain-English reference to the specs that actually affect your cost, handling, and compliance.
Stringer Pallet
- Three parallel boards (stringers) form the frame.
- The classic GMA design — most U.S. freight runs on these.
- Notch the stringers and a forklift enters all four sides; a pallet jack still only two.
- Lower cost; easy to repair with companion stringers.
Block Pallet
- Nine solid blocks replace stringers for true four-way entry.
- Higher stability and durability — preferred for automation and pooling.
- Common on export loads and modern racking systems.
- Costs more, but carries and stacks more reliably.
2-Way Entry
- Forks enter from two opposite sides only.
- Solid (un-notched) stringers — simple and strong.
- Best where loads are always approached from the same direction.
4-Way Entry
- Forks or jacks enter from all four sides.
- Notched stringers or block construction make it possible.
- Faster handling in tight docks and busy warehouses.
Highest-quality recycled. No stringer repairs, clean, dry, and free of contaminants to food-grade standards. Used wherever the load is seen by a customer or has to pass a retailer's receiving spec.
Value workhorse. Often worn or discolored, with one or two repaired or companion stringers and block/plug repairs. Very popular thanks to a lower cost than Grade A.
Heavily reworked. Multiple repairs, inconsistent deck boards, and several companion stringers. Generally not accepted by most companies — we'll steer you away from these.
"GMA" describes the size & design. The grade describes the condition — and grade is what drives the price.
If you ship internationally, your wood packaging must meet ISPM-15 — the global standard set by the IPPC to stop pests from crossing borders. The most common path is heat treatment (HT).
- Debark & prep
Bark is removed so pests can't re-infest the lumber before treatment.
- Heat to core
The wood's core is held at a minimum of 56°C (132.8°F) for at least 30 continuous minutes, killing insects, larvae, and fungi.
- Stamp & certify
A certified facility brands the IPPC "wheat" mark with the country code, facility number, and the HT treatment code.
- Repairs matter
Replace too much wood and the pallet must be re-treated and re-stamped. Any wood used for repair must already be HT-marked.
ANATOMY OF AN ISPM-15 "WHEAT" STAMP
Still have questions?
Tell us what you're shipping and we'll recommend the right construction, entry, grade, and treatment.