Types of Pallets: Wood, Plastic, and Metal Comparison
Choosing the right type of pallet for your business depends on your specific needs, budget, and industry requirements. The three main types of pallets are wood, plastic, and metal, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Wood Pallets
Wood pallets are the most common type, accounting for over 90% of pallets in use worldwide. They're affordable, readily available, and easy to repair.
Advantages:
- Low initial cost ($10-$50 per pallet)
- Readily available from multiple suppliers
- Easy to repair with basic tools
- Good weight-bearing capacity (2,500+ lbs)
- Recyclable and biodegradable
Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to moisture and weather damage
- Can harbor bacteria and pests
- Shorter lifespan (3-5 years average)
- Requires ISPM-15 treatment for international shipping
Best For:
Domestic shipping, one-way shipments, dry goods storage, and budget-conscious operations.
Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets are growing in popularity, especially in industries with strict hygiene requirements like food and pharmaceuticals.
Advantages:
- Excellent durability (10+ years lifespan)
- Resistant to moisture, chemicals, and weather
- Easy to clean and sanitize
- Consistent weight and dimensions
- ISPM-15 exempt for international shipping
- Lightweight (reducing shipping costs)
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost ($50-$150 per pallet)
- Difficult to repair when damaged
- Can be slippery when wet
- Not as environmentally friendly (petroleum-based)
Best For:
Food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cleanroom environments, closed-loop supply chains, and international shipping.
Metal Pallets
Metal pallets, typically made from steel or aluminum, are the strongest and most durable option but also the most expensive.
Advantages:
- Extremely durable (20+ years lifespan)
- Highest load capacity (4,000+ lbs)
- Fire-resistant and weather-proof
- Easy to clean and sanitize
- 100% recyclable
- Ideal for heavy machinery and equipment
Disadvantages:
- Very expensive ($100-$300+ per pallet)
- Heavy weight (40-70 lbs empty)
- Can rust if not properly treated
- Requires specialized repair equipment
- May damage products if not properly padded
Best For:
Heavy machinery, automotive parts, military applications, high-temperature environments, and long-term reusable systems.
Cost Comparison
| Type | Initial Cost | Lifespan | Cost per Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | $10-$50 | 3-5 years | $5-$15 |
| Plastic | $50-$150 | 10+ years | $5-$15 |
| Metal | $100-$300 | 20+ years | $5-$15 |
While metal and plastic pallets have higher upfront costs, their longer lifespan makes them cost-effective for closed-loop systems.