Stringer Pallet vs Block Pallet: Which to Use

Feb 07, 2024

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Stringer Pallets & Block Pallets stacked on top of each other.

What is a Block Pallet?

As the name implies, a block pallet is one made up of a series of blocks at the base. There are usually nine blocks in a single pallet, although that can obviously vary depending on the situation.

One of those blocks, which is typically made of wood, is placed at each of the four corners of the pallet. The rest of the blocks line the sides and the center and collectively they support whatever load you need to transport.

You may have heard of block pallets referred to as "four-way" pallets due to the fact that a pallet jack, forklift, or similar piece of equipment can access it from all four sides as opposed to just two.

What is a Stringer Pallet?

If you close your eyes and picture a standard pallet that you would see in virtually any warehouse or manufacturing environment, you're picturing a stringer pallet whether you realize it or not.

These are the most commonly used pallets in the country and use stringers (hence the name) to support their loads. A series of boards are sandwiched together between the top and bottom decks. They're usually made from 2 x 4s, although 3 x 4s are also common. These are also called "two-way" pallets, because a pallet jacket or other piece of equipment will need to get to them via only the front or back.

Deciding Between Block and Stringer Pallets

When to Use Block Pallets

One of the major reasons why you would favor block pallets over stringer pallets has to do with the idea that they're generally believed to be stronger and more durable. Yes, stringer pallets may be more common, but if you have a heavy load that needs to be specially protected during transport, a block pallet may be the way to go.

The static load size of a wooden stringer pallet is between 2,200 to 2,500 pounds, for example.

a row of wooden block pallets stacked on top of each other.

That's certainly a lot of weight, but consider that the standard load size of a wood block pallet is up to 5,500 pounds. That's a major difference and you can ship a lot more with a fraction of the effort required. Note, however, that block pallets tend to weigh between 75 and 80 pounds by design, so if that is a concern you'll want to factor it into your decision as to which type of pallet to use.

When to Use Stringer Pallets

Stringer pallets are the most commonly used type of pallet in the United States, so if you're shipping domestically, there is a good chance that a stringer pallet is the way to go. Having said that, this isn't always true in other countries. If you're shipping internationally, you'll want to check to see which type of pallet your destination country uses because the chances are high that block pallets might be more common. This means it will be easier for those companies to deal with block pallets once the shipment arrives.

If you'd like to find out more information about stringer pallets vs block pallets, or if you'd just like to discuss your own shipping needs with someone in a bit more detail, please don't hesitate to contact the Advance Pallet team today.