New Pallets. Zero Compromise.
Heat-treated, ISPM-15 certified, and built to spec. When used pallets aren't the right call, we manufacture new ones in-house.
Get a Quote — It's Free
When New Is the Right Answer
No Prior History
New pallets have never carried an unknown load, been treated with uncontrolled chemicals, or been exposed to contaminants. This is critical for food-grade, pharmaceutical, and cleanroom environments where chain-of-custody documentation is required.
Consistent Load Ratings
New lumber is cut to exact specifications — uniform board thickness, consistent nail patterns, and known load ratings backed by engineering data. No variance from previous repairs or unknown use history.
Export Compliant
All new pallets are available with ISPM-15 heat treatment and bear the official IPPC HT stamp. Ready for international shipment to any country without additional treatment or documentation hurdles.
Custom Dimensions
Any size from 18"x18" to 60"x60" can be built new. Non-standard footprints, special entry configurations, unusual lumber specs, and unique deck board layouts — all achievable with new production.
Known Fastener Pattern
Every nail, screw, or staple is placed according to spec. Automated production ensures consistent fastener depth, spacing, and pattern — essential for automated handling systems that are sensitive to protruding hardware.
Full Traceability
New pallets come with complete documentation: lumber species, source mill, treatment type, production date, and lot number. Required by many pharmaceutical and aerospace supply chain audits.
Available Lumber Types
The lumber species you choose affects strength, weight, cost, and appearance. Here is a detailed breakdown of each option we offer, along with our recommendations.
Southern Yellow Pine (SYP)
Hardness
Softwood (Janka: 690)
Strength
Excellent — highest strength-to-weight ratio in softwoods
Weight (48x40)
42–50 lbs per 48x40 pallet
Relative Cost
Moderate
Best For
General purpose, export, racking, heavy loads. The most popular new pallet lumber in the eastern U.S.
Readily available, treats well with HT, consistent grain. Our default recommendation for most applications.
Oak / Mixed Hardwood
Hardness
Hardwood (Janka: 1,290–1,360)
Strength
Superior — highest absolute strength and puncture resistance
Weight (48x40)
55–70 lbs per 48x40 pallet
Relative Cost
Higher
Best For
Extreme-load applications, heavy machinery, steel coils, automotive stamping parts.
Heavier than softwood options. Excellent for static loads but adds freight weight. Often used for stringers with SYP deck boards.
Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF)
Hardness
Softwood (Janka: 400–510)
Strength
Good — adequate for standard warehouse loads up to 2,500 lbs dynamic
Weight (48x40)
35–42 lbs per 48x40 pallet
Relative Cost
Lower
Best For
Lightweight shipping, one-way export, air freight where weight is a factor.
Lighter and less expensive than SYP. Softer wood is more susceptible to damage in multi-cycle use.
Poplar / Aspen
Hardness
Softwood-Hardwood (Janka: 350–540)
Strength
Moderate — suitable for light to medium loads
Weight (48x40)
32–40 lbs per 48x40 pallet
Relative Cost
Lower
Best For
Clean environments, food packaging, lightweight goods, pharmaceutical packaging.
Very clean, light-colored wood with minimal sap or resin. Stains and contamination are more visible, making it preferred in inspectable environments.
Combo Build (SYP Deck + Oak Stringers)
Hardness
Mixed
Strength
Excellent — combines hardwood stringer strength with softwood deck efficiency
Weight (48x40)
48–58 lbs per 48x40 pallet
Relative Cost
Moderate-to-High
Best For
Heavy racking loads, conveyor systems, situations requiring both strength and cost efficiency.
Our most popular spec for racking applications. Oak stringers resist fork damage; SYP deck boards keep weight manageable.
Construction Types: Stringer vs. Block
The two fundamental pallet construction methods — stringer and block — determine fork access, load capacity, racking performance, and cost. Here is a detailed comparison.
Stringer Pallet — 2-Way Entry
Three parallel stringers (boards running the length of the pallet) support the deck boards. Fork entry is only possible from the two open ends. The simplest and most economical construction type.
Advantages
+ Lowest cost
+ Simple construction
+ Easy to repair
+ Lightest weight
Limitations
- 2-way fork access only
- Not suitable for all racking configs
Common Applications
Light-to-medium warehousing, one-way shipping, export
Stringer Pallet — 4-Way Entry (Notched)
Same three-stringer construction, but with notches cut into the stringers to allow fork entry from all four sides. The most common pallet type in North America. Notch position and depth follow GMA standards.
Advantages
+ 4-way fork access
+ Cost-effective
+ Most widely used
+ Compatible with most racking
Limitations
- Notches reduce stringer strength slightly
- Requires precise notch cutting
Common Applications
General warehousing, retail distribution, food & beverage, manufacturing
Block Pallet — 4-Way Entry
Nine (or more) blocks arranged in a 3x3 grid support the top and bottom deck boards. True 4-way entry without notching, providing superior structural integrity. Common in European and pharmaceutical applications.
Advantages
+ True 4-way entry
+ Strongest construction
+ Best for automated systems
+ Superior racking performance
Limitations
- Higher cost
- Heavier
- More complex to repair
Common Applications
Pharmaceutical, automated AS/RS, European export, heavy loads, pooling
Perimeter Base Block Pallet
Block pallet with a full perimeter bottom deck board layout. Provides maximum surface contact for racking beams and conveyor rollers. Required by many automated warehouse systems.
Advantages
+ Maximum racking support
+ Best conveyor performance
+ No overhang issues
+ Strongest rack load ratings
Limitations
- Highest cost
- Heaviest construction
- Longest production time
Common Applications
AS/RS systems, high-bay racking, pharmaceutical distribution, high-value goods
Load Capacity Ratings
Load capacity depends on construction type, lumber species, and how the pallet is supported. The three standard load ratings are: Dynamic (load in motion on a forklift), Static (load at rest on a flat surface), and Racking (load spanning rack beams with no center support).
| Pallet Configuration | Dynamic Load | Static Load | Racking Load |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48x40 Stringer (SYP) | 2,800 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 2,200 lbs |
| 48x40 Stringer (Oak) | 3,500 lbs | 6,500 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| 48x40 Block (SYP) | 3,200 lbs | 6,000 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| 48x40 Block (Oak) | 4,000 lbs | 7,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| 48x40 Combo (Oak/SYP) | 3,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 2,600 lbs |
| 48x48 Block (SYP) | 3,400 lbs | 6,500 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
* Ratings are approximate and based on standard construction with #2 or better lumber grade. Actual capacity depends on load distribution, deck board configuration, and environmental conditions. Contact us for engineering-grade load calculations for critical applications.
Heat Treatment — Everything You Need to Know
Our on-site heat treatment kiln is certified by the American Lumber Standard Committee (ALSC) and produces IPPC-stamped pallets for international export. We process over 5,000 pallets per week through our kiln.
What is ISPM-15?
The International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM-15) is a global regulation requiring wood packaging used in international trade to be heat-treated or debarked to prevent the spread of invasive pests like the Asian longhorned beetle and pine wood nematode. Adopted by 180+ countries, compliance is mandatory for most international wood packaging.
How does heat treatment work?
The wood core temperature must reach a minimum of 56°C (132.8°F) for at least 30 continuous minutes. Our ALSC-certified kiln uses precise digital temperature monitoring with probes inserted into representative lumber samples. The entire process — loading, ramp-up, treatment, and cool-down — takes approximately 12–24 hours depending on lumber thickness and moisture content.
HT vs. MB — what is the difference?
Heat Treatment (HT) uses thermal energy only — no chemicals, no residues, safe for food contact. Methyl Bromide (MB) is a chemical fumigant that is now banned in the European Union, Canada, and many other countries due to ozone depletion concerns. We exclusively use HT treatment. We do not offer MB treatment under any circumstances.
How do I identify a certified pallet?
Every ISPM-15 certified pallet carries a legible stamp showing: the IPPC wheat sheaf logo, the two-letter country code (US), the producer registration number, and the treatment code (HT). The stamp must be on at least two opposite sides of the pallet. We provide compliance documentation and certificates on request for each shipment.
Do I need HT for domestic U.S. shipping?
Heat treatment is not legally required for domestic shipping within the continental United States. However, many food manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and retailers specify HT pallets regardless as an additional biosecurity and quality assurance measure. Some major retailers like Costco and Whole Foods require HT stamps on all inbound pallets.
Can you heat-treat pallets we already own?
Yes. We offer contract heat treatment services for pallets you already have in your inventory. Bring them to our Norwalk facility or arrange pickup. Typical turnaround is 2–3 business days. We stamp each pallet with our IPPC certification mark after treatment. Minimum batch: 50 pallets.
Available Sizes & Lead Times
48" × 40"
GMA / Grocery
In Stock
Lead time: 1–3 days
48" × 48"
Square / Drum
In Stock
Lead time: 1–3 days
42" × 42"
Telecom / Paint
In Stock
Lead time: 3–5 days
40" × 40"
Beverage / Dairy
On Request
Lead time: 5–7 days
48" × 36"
Military / DOD
On Request
Lead time: 7–10 days
48" × 45"
Automotive
On Request
Lead time: 5–7 days
60" × 48"
Oversized / HVAC
On Request
Lead time: 7–10 days
36" × 36"
Display / Medical
On Request
Lead time: 7–10 days
Custom
Any Dimension
Built to Order
Lead time: 10–14 days
New Pallet Recommendations by Industry
Different industries have different pallet requirements. Here are our specific recommendations based on years of supplying each sector.
Food & Beverage
Key Requirements
FSMA compliance, HT stamps, clean wood, no contamination risk
Our Recommendation
New SYP stringer, HT, Grade #1 lumber
Pharmaceutical
Key Requirements
cGMP documentation, traceability, cleanroom compatibility
Our Recommendation
New block pallet, Poplar or SYP, HT, full documentation
Automotive OEM
Key Requirements
Exact dimensions, high racking loads, GM/Ford/Stellantis specs
Our Recommendation
New combo build (Oak stringers + SYP deck), 48x45 or custom
Aerospace & Defense
Key Requirements
MIL-STD compliance, FOD control, lot traceability
Our Recommendation
New SYP or Poplar, custom specs per contract
Chemical & Hazmat
Key Requirements
Heavy loads, spill containment compatibility, ventilation
Our Recommendation
New Oak block, ventilated deck, heavy-duty construction
International Export
Key Requirements
ISPM-15 compliance, documentation for customs
Our Recommendation
New SYP stringer or block, HT, IPPC stamped
Retail & E-Commerce
Key Requirements
Clean appearance, AS/RS compatibility, consistent dimensions
Our Recommendation
New SYP block, perimeter base, chamfered deck boards
Electronics
Key Requirements
ESD considerations, clean environment, precise dimensions
Our Recommendation
New Poplar or SPF, block construction, anti-static coating optional
What Determines New Pallet Pricing?
New pallet pricing is not one-size-fits-all. Seven key factors determine the per-unit cost. Understanding these helps you make informed decisions about specifications vs. budget.
Lumber Species
Oak costs 30–50% more than SYP; SPF is 10–15% less than SYP
Hardwood stringers with softwood decks offer a cost-effective middle ground.
Pallet Size
Larger pallets use more lumber and require heavier construction
A 60x48 pallet uses approximately 40% more lumber than a standard 48x40.
Construction Type
Block pallets cost 25–40% more than stringer pallets
Additional blocks, bottom boards, and labor increase production cost.
Heat Treatment
Adds $1.50–$3.00 per pallet
Includes kiln time, energy, monitoring, and IPPC stamp application.
Special Features
Notching, chamfering, coating add $0.50–$2.00 each
Multiple features are additive. Custom branding adds $0.75–$1.50 per pallet.
Order Volume
Volume pricing starts at 100 units
Best per-unit pricing at 1,000+ with 15–20% off list price.
Current Lumber Market
Lumber commodity prices fluctuate weekly
We lock pricing at order confirmation. Quotes are valid for 7 days.
Our Quality Assurance Process
Every new pallet we produce goes through a six-stage quality assurance process. We manufacture in our Norwalk facility — not outsourced — so we control every step.
Lumber Grading
All incoming lumber is graded for species, moisture content, knot frequency, and structural soundness. Lumber that does not meet our standards is rejected before it enters production.
Precision Cutting
Automated saws cut lumber to exact dimensions with tolerances of +/- 1/16 inch. Every board is consistent in length, width, and thickness.
Nail Pattern Verification
Pneumatic nailers follow a predetermined nail pattern for each pallet design. Nail depth, spacing, and angle are verified on the first pallet of each production run and spot-checked throughout.
Dimensional Audit
Random pallets from each batch are pulled for dimensional verification — length, width, height, squareness, and deck board spacing are measured against the spec drawing.
Visual Inspection
Every pallet receives a final visual inspection for splits, cracks, protruding nails, loose boards, and cosmetic defects. Pallets that do not pass are repaired or rejected.
HT Certification (if applicable)
Heat-treated pallets receive IPPC stamps after kiln processing. Stamp placement, legibility, and treatment documentation are verified before pallets are cleared for shipping.
When to Choose New vs. Used
We will always recommend the most cost-effective option for your application. Here is a detailed breakdown of situations where new pallets are genuinely the better choice.
ISPM-15 compliance is required for nearly all international wood packaging. Used pallets without a valid HT stamp will be rejected at port, costing you delays, re-treatment fees, and potential fines. New pallets with factory-applied HT stamps eliminate this risk entirely.
FDA regulations and FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) guidelines emphasize contamination control in the supply chain. New pallets with known material history, no prior chemical exposure, and clean surfaces satisfy the strictest food safety auditors.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems operate within tight dimensional tolerances. A pallet that is 1/2 inch out of spec can jam a conveyor, trigger a sensor fault, or cause a rack collapse. New pallets guarantee the dimensional consistency that AS/RS systems demand.
When load ratings are contractually specified, safety-critical, or insured, new pallets with known lumber grade, calculated nail patterns, and documented engineering data are the only defensible choice. Used pallets with unknown repair history cannot be load-rated with certainty.
The used pallet market is dominated by 48x40 GMA pallets. If you need 36x36, 48x45, 60x48, or any non-standard footprint, new production is typically the only reliable source for consistent volume.
When pallets are visible to consumers — retail floor displays, farmers market booths, trade show setups — the clean, uniform appearance of new lumber conveys quality. Weathered, stained, or repaired used pallets undermine brand image.
Many large retailers, OEMs, and government agencies contractually require new pallets for inbound shipments. Walmart, Target, and DoD contracts often specify "new, heat-treated, no recycled" in their packaging standards.
Military MIL-STD packaging specs and aerospace FOD (Foreign Object Debris) protocols often mandate new pallets with specific lumber grades, fastener types, and inspection documentation that used pallets cannot satisfy.
Order Lead Times
Standard GMA (in stock)
1–3 business days
Standard GMA (production)
5–7 business days
Non-standard sizes
7–10 business days
Custom specifications
10–14 business days
Rush production
3–5 days (+15% surcharge)
Heat treatment add-on
+2–3 business days
Prototype sample
3–5 business days
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ISPM-15 heat treatment mean for export pallets?
ISPM-15 heat treatment raises the wood core to 56°C for a minimum of 30 continuous minutes, killing all pest organisms. This phytosanitary treatment is required for international freight to most countries.
Can I get new pallets in custom non-standard sizes?
Yes. We build new pallets in any dimension with your choice of lumber species, stringer or block construction, notching, chamfering, and any required treatment. Lead time is typically 10–14 business days.
Are your new pallets suitable for food-grade applications?
Yes. New pallets with documented chain of custody meet food-grade and pharmaceutical supply chain standards. We can provide species certification and production documentation on request.
How long does it take to receive new pallets after ordering?
In-stock standard sizes typically ship within 2–5 business days of confirmed order. Custom-built new pallets have a 10–14 business day lead time. Rush production is available for a fee.
Do new pallets come with a structural guarantee?
Yes. All new pallets are guaranteed to meet NWPCA structural specifications for the stated grade. We reject any lumber that does not meet our grading standards before it enters production.
Ready to Order New Pallets?
Tell us your size, species, construction type, and quantity. We will have a detailed quote with a dimensional drawing back to you within 24 hours.