Stringer Pallet vs. Block Pallet - Which is Best for your Application?

While both stringer and block pallets can be made to work with most supply chains, determining which pallet to buy usually comes down to the following three questions:
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1. How will the pallets be stored?
2. How will the pallet be handled?
3. What is the cost of the pallet?

How will the pallet be handled?

Is a forklift, pallet jack, or conveyor system involved? Block pallets can offer more options than stringer pallets in regards to handling as they can be FULL 4-way entry pallets. Stringer pallets have 2-way or PARTIAL 4-way entry. Partial 4-way entry means that a pallet can be handled from all 4 sides with a forklift but from only 2 sides with a pallet jack. If it is necessary to access the pallets from 4 sides with a pallet jack, then a block pallet is a better option.
  

How will the pallets be stored?  

Block pallets offer three standard bottom deck board options:

• Uni-directional base
• Perimeter base
• Overlapping base

Stringer pallets can have boards added anywhere there isn’t a cut out for the notch (2-way pallets offer full bottom deck coverage capabilities). Either block or stringer can be properly designed to hold heavy loads when these wooden pallets are stacked or placed in racking systems. Block pallets can have bottom deck boards that run in both directions, which might make them more compatible with certain conveyor systems.
  

How much does it cost?
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Generally speaking a standard size 48 x 40 block pallet costs more to build than a 48 x 40 stringer pallet. Many factors go into pricing these designs such as the amount of lumber for each design, assembly time and special nailing machines for mass production. Block pallets are normally more complicated to assemble and use more lumber in their designs to achieve the strength ratings. All of these factors typically contribute to block pallets being more expensive than stringer pallets. 

Which works best for your application – a stringer or block pallet? Ask us by commenting below. 

Post by: Jonathan Haynes, Sales Representative