What You Need to Know About Pallets of Wood for Sale
Although pallets might appear to be simple objects, there's many factors involved in making them. Like any other product they are priced according to their raw materials.
A major aspect is the lumber grade. Pallets are typically constructed from industrial grade lumber, which is less durable than the higher-grade wood that is used for furniture and construction. This can lead to price increase.
Hardwood
Known for their durability, strength and versatility, wood pallets remain an extremely popular option for storage, shipping, and distribution. They are also recyclable and environmentally friendly, which is a great marketing point for companies that care about sustainability.
Wood pallets are typically constructed using three or more flat deck boards on top of two stringers. Each board is attached to the support pieces by nails. In North America, the most common pallet is made of hardwood, which is suitable for shipping and handling heavy-duty, or softwood. Both types of pallets are available in different sizes, so it's important to know your needs before choosing a type.
The density of hardwood lumber is generally higher than softwood, meaning it can withstand more abrasive conditions without losing its structural strength. It's also less susceptible to being damaged by corrosive chemicals and liquids. In general hardwoods originate from broad-leafed and deciduous species and softwoods come from coniferous species or needle-leaved ones.
Pine wood, oak, birch and poplar are some of the most popular types of wood that are used to construct pallets. Pine is a great choice for businesses who want to cut costs as it's easily available and cheap. The most durable wooden pallets, however, are typically made of maple or oak. They are naturally resistant to rot, mold, and insects and will stand up to an array of loading conditions.
Kiln-dried wood pallets are available for purchase. This means they have been heat-treated to get rid of pests and bacteria. This is essential for wood that is to be shipped internationally as it must meet the hygiene standards of the International Plant Protection Convention. This stops the spread of invasive species and plant diseases from being transported across borders, which could lead to serious issues for companies that have global supply chains. MTE offers hardwood and softwood pallets that have been kiln dried to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Softwood
Wood pallets are sturdy affordable and can be used again. They are perfect for a range of business shipping needs, including food, automotive and chemical products. The type of wood pallets that will work best for your business will be determined by several factors, including the capacity for load, durability, and environmental issues. The ideal choice for your business will depend on the requirements of your industry and the supply chain.
Hardwood is the most popular material used for pallets made of wood. Its density provides added strength and durability, which helps in reducing damage and increasing the life of wooden pallets. The pallets made of hardwood also are naturally resistant to insects and fungi. They are also abrasion-resistant, making them suitable for the transportation of heavy loads.
Softwood pallets are now an increasingly popular alternative to hardwood. These pallets are made of coniferous trees and tree species that produce needles, like cedar pine, pine, fir or spruce. They grow faster than hardwoods and can be harvested more quickly. They are also lighter and more affordable than hardwood pallets. Softwood pallets can be dried in the kiln to prevent moisture build-up and mold growth.
The choice between softwood and hardwood pallets will depend on your business's specific needs and supply chain logistics. A hardwood pallet is a more suitable option if you're transporting hazardous chemicals or other materials. This is because of its greater durability. On the other the other hand, if you require a pallet that is able to be able to withstand repeated handling and abrasions, a softwood wood pallet may be better.
As the demand for softwoods pallets increases, procurement professionals must reevaluate the existing specifications for pallets that call for hardwood. Although it's not easy packaging design engineers can help in evaluating your options and making the right decision for your business.
Pine
Pine pallets made of wood are a popular option for companies looking for a durable and inexpensive way to ship items. Available in a variety of sizes and styles, they can be treated with chemicals such as methyl bromide. This will shield the wood from pests and mold. They can also be treated with heat to improve their longevity and strength.
Pine lumber is easy to work with, making it a great choice for woodworking. It's typically dried to ensure a clean product that's ready to be used as a pallet or a shipping box. It is also less expensive than hardwood, making it a good option for companies who need a lot of shipping pallets.
Softwoods such as pine develop more quickly than hardwoods which allows manufacturers to meet a high demand while minimizing environmental stress. Since they don't need much water to flourish they help to maintain the stability of tree populations and prevent deforestation. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to a more sustainable environment.
Hardwoods such as maple and oak are more durable and stronger than pine, making them ideal for use in heavy-duty tasks. While they may be more expensive than pine, they are well worth the investment if require pallets that can endure a lot of wear and tear over time.

The kind of wood used to make pallets can have a major impact on their durability and capacity to carry loads. Pine and pine-based pallets are light and cost-effective, but they lack the durability of hardwoods. Oak and maple pallets are more expensive however they offer superior strength and durability. They are perfect for long-term use.
The kind of wood that is best for your business will depend on your budget and requirements. Consider the size of your goods and the average weight per pallet to determine what type is the best fit for your needs. Choose pallets that have been tested and certified by a third-party to ensure the quality.
There are many alternatives to wooden pallets that are more efficient. Plastic pallets offer many advantages over wooden pallets. They can be used to support an economic system that is circular and meet a variety of specifications. They also offer a high capacity for dynamic loads and can be easily repaired to take on heavier items.
Different Sizes
Pallets are available in various sizes based on the purpose for which they are intended. Most pallets are constructed out of wood, however they can also be made out of metal or plastic. Each material type has distinct advantages but also has limitations as well. pallet prices of pallets has tried to standardize certain measurements for various types of pallets. The ISO has six standards for the dimensions of pallets. However, other industries usually have their own specifications for pallets they use.
Pine and oak are the most commonly used materials used for making pallets. They are both reasonably priced and easily available in North America. These pallets are perfect to transport items from one location to another. They are also lightweight and can reduce the cost of shipping. They are also less difficult to clean than other pallets.
Before a pallet is used, it must be cleaned and treated so that the wood doesn't contain pests. Fumigating the wood is one method to accomplish this. The process requires a lot of equipment and takes about two weeks. Once the pallet has been fumigated, it is ready to use.
The most popular wooden pallets are made of southern yellow pine and oak. A previous study conducted by the USDA and Virginia Tech found that these materials account for 18.9 percent and 17.1 percent of all wooden pallets produced in the United States, respectively. The pallets are also made from walnut and maple.
The majority of pallets are made from lumber that has been kiln-dried which removes moisture from the wood and makes it less likely to break or warp down. The process of kiln-drying also makes the wood more brittle which allows the pallet to hold more weight without exceeding its load capacity.
When choosing pallets you should be aware of their dimensions, shapes and quality. While it is important to choose a pallet that suits your business needs, you should also remember that the lumber grade doesn't necessarily mean the quality.
If you want a wood pallet to last a long time, buy it from a business that is specialized in these products. This company will spend the time necessary to make sure that each pallet is in line with the specifications you have set. In addition, they can cut stringers and notches to save time and effort.