As a business owner, it’s important to improve every aspect of your company’s operations, including your shipping and delivery processes. Understanding the weight variations among various types of pallets will help you assess your supply chain management.
Keep reading to review the average weights of different types of pallets, from standard wooden pallets to lightweight plastic pallets. This information will help you decide which pallets work best for your products and can help you save money on shipping.
Standard Wooden Pallets
Wooden pallets are the most traditional and widely used option. On average, a standard wooden pallet weighs between 30 and 70 pounds, depending on its size and construction.
At First Alliance Logistics Management, our new wood pallets for sale are sturdy and durable, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from warehouse storage to transportation.
Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets have gained popularity due to their lightweight yet robust nature. Unlike their wooden counterparts, lightweight plastic pallets typically weigh between 15 and 30 pounds.
Despite being lighter, these pallets offer excellent strength and durability, making them ideal for industries that prioritize hygiene and easy cleaning, such as food processing and pharmaceuticals.
Corrugated Pallets
Corrugated pallets are a lightweight alternative to traditional wooden or plastic pallets. Made from layers of cardboard, they are incredibly lightweight, with an average weight ranging from 10 to 20 pounds.
While not as durable as plastic pallets or new wood pallets for sale, corrugated pallets are suitable for one-time or short-term use, especially in industries that prioritize cost-effectiveness and recyclability.
Weight Differences Between North American and European Pallets
It’s worth noting that there are weight differences between pallets used in different regions. North American pallets, commonly known as GMA pallets, tend to be heavier, with an average weight of around 40 to 70 pounds.
European pallets, also known as EUR pallets, are lighter, averaging between 30 and 50 pounds. These variations stem from differences in standard sizes and construction practices between the two regions.
Weight Differences Between Softwood and Hardwood Pallets
Another factor influencing pallet weight is the type of wood used in construction. Softwood pallets, typically made from pine or spruce, are lighter, averaging between 30 and 50 pounds.
Hardwood pallets, which are constructed from wood like oak or maple, are heavier, with average weights ranging from 40 to 70 pounds. While both offer durability, companies with larger products often prefer hardwood pallets due to their increased strength.
Understanding the average weights of different types of pallets is crucial for efficient logistics and supply chain management. Whether you’re dealing with standard wooden pallets, lightweight plastic pallets, or corrugated pallets, knowing their weights can help your business streamline its operations and optimize transportation costs.
The next time you handle pallets, refer to this information to ensure you make an informed decision. And don’t forget to consider new wood pallets for sale from First Alliance Logistics Management for your shipping needs! Visit our website for more information about our unique pallet programs.