Whether you operate a construction site, 3PL shipping company, food manufacturing, or a freight company most businesses use pallets. As I am sure you are aware there is a wide range of pallet types with different materials, sizes, and conditions. The price range is drastic when it comes to new vs used pallets. This is why it is important to make the right decision.
When it comes to used vs. new pallets, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. Different businesses need different types of skids day to day. Below we will talk about the pros and cons of each so that you can make the best decision for your business.
Advantages of New GMA Pallets
If you are in the food manufacturing business or a medical company, this is where you stop reading. It is almost always recommended to use new pallets for these types of businesses and is unethical to do otherwise. New pallets offer great benefits but also a higher price. The main ones are wood quality and strength. These pallets will always be clean and you will not have to worry about contamination.
Wood Quality
New 48×40 pallets are usually in better shape than their used counterpart. Fresh pallets haven’t been used at all, so they arrive at your facility in great condition. There will be no broken boards, nails, splinters, or mold, so you know you’re getting top-quality skids. A great option when you are concerned with the safety of your product
You will have less worry about your product being damaged in transit and arriving to your customers safely.
Wide Range of Uses
Another advantage to new pallets are there many different types of uses. These pallets can be customized to whatever your specific needs are. The most common size is the standard 48 x 40 GMA. Although many companies require different dimensions for specialized shipping. It is not impossible but it is very difficult to get a regular supply of uniform-sized used skids. You can request a custom build with specifications of dimensions, boards, and wood type. Many manufacturers also offer samples to test out before going into production.
Most industries don’t need to use specialized pallets, so therefore the most common size is the 48 x 40. while other sectors require this quality. If you need any other sizes your best bet will be a new skid.
Advantages of Used Pallets
If budget is not an issue new will almost always be your best bet for quality and safety. Although Used can be a great option for plenty of businesses such as plastic recyclers, 3PL companies, metal recyclers, or any other company where you do not have to worry about your product being damaged in transit. Price is always the biggest benefit. While a new pallet can be anywhere from $15-20 a skid. You can find used for anywhere from $6-10 depending on location.
Typically they come in 3 different forms.
- Grade A. These are typically in great condition with little to no damage. Altough you will be also getting up there in price.
- Grade B. Typically has some minor damage to the structure, This includes possible missing boards, nails sticking, weathered from being outside too long
- Grade C. Also referred to as cores. These are not suited for reuse and 9/10 times should go back to recyloer. Often times people try to cut corners and use them due to price and later regret this decision.
Disadvantages of New Pallets
We’ve talked a lot about the pros of new and used pallets, but what about the cons? Every option comes with some undesirable disadvantages. It’s up to you to determine which ones you can live with and which ones you cannot tolerate. Let’s start by exploring the cons of new pallets.
Price per skid
With shortages in lumber and supply chain issues, the price of new wooden pallets has skyrocketed in the last decade. In areas of California, some people are having to pay upwards of 30/pallets. If you’re not so concerned with condition and are more concerned about price, used pallets may be a better option. At the end of the day if you just need to get from point a to point b used will often do the trick
Disadvantages of Used Pallets
The quality of these skids can vary from company to company. Some take great pride in providing great quality used products. While other pallet companies will sell you garbage at a high rate. It is import to vet companies and check to product out before buying or entering into any contracts.
Condition
When you receive a truckload there may be a couple that needs to be tossed out or is not capable to be reused. There might be damage or contamination from the outdoor
Feel free to contact a member of our team to go over any questions you have about your pallet needs
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