Wooden Pallets

In the past, wood was the only option for pallets, and it remains the most popular type of shipping pallet today.

Pros: 
• Strong and fairly durable
• Inexpensive
• Can be reused multiple times
• Slip-resistant
• If damaged, is easily repaired

Cons:
• Heavier than other materials
• While reusable, there are limits, as structural integrity is weakened over time
• Can splinter
• Loose, protruding or rusty nails can damage packaging, the shipment or hurt workers
• May contain pests or pathogens like Listeria or E Coli
• May be quarantined by customs officials for pest or pathogen contamination

Cardboard/Corrugate Pallets

Pros:

• Lightweight — just 25% of what wood pallets weigh, reducing shipping costs drastically
• Affordable — comparable in cost to wooden pallets
• Easily broken down and recycled after use
• Compliant with ISPM 15 regulations for international shipping

Cons:
• Lack of durability; lose structural integrity quickly
• Susceptible to moisture damage
• Generally can only be used once
• Are porous and can’t be cleaned/sanitized

Plastic Pallets

Pros:
• Highly durable; can be reused many times
• Lightweight — just 70% of wood weight
• Lowered shipping costs due to low weight
• Interlock for easy stacking and storage
• Pose less risk to workers due to being lightweight and free of nails
• Non-porous, so no risk of pests or bacteria

Cons:
• Cost about 3x what wooden pallets cost
• Although more durable than wood, when damaged, they are not repairable

Learn about the shipping services from Quick Transfer USA at www.QuickTransferUSA.com.