Become An Expert: Recycled Pallets

In this video, we discuss the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of using a recycled pallet. If you would like to learn more, visit our website at www.gruberpallets.com.
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Definition
A recycled pallet is any pallet that has been used before, and it may have repaired stringers or deckboards. In fact, the majority of the pallets in circulation have been reused or repaired. Here are some characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of using a recycled pallet compared with using brand new.
Characteristics
Capacity Recycled pallets can hold anywhere between 1500 and 3000 pounds which is largely influenced by the way the product is distributed on the pallet. Pallets will hold more weight if the item is evenly placed, whereas pallets with concentrated loads in one particular area will not be nearly as sturdy.
Classifications Most companies will sort recycled pallets out using few key identifiers 1) dimension, 2) number of stringers, and 3) amount of repairs on the stringer - some companies will even sort pallets based on whether they are heavy-duty or light-duty. It is standard in the industry to use terminology of "#1 Grade, #2 Grade" while some refer to their pallets as "A Grade, and B Grade."
Advantages
Reduced moisture By virtue of a longer lifespan, recycled pallets have more time to dry and typically register 15% moisture content or less, while a new, "green" pallet can carry 25% or more moisture content. Dry pallets limit the opportunity for moisture to move from the pallet through the paper or cardboard packaging surrounding the product that needs to be shipped which could damage the packaging and also damage the product. Secondly, dry pallets are not as easily susceptible to mold. Moisture is one of the primary ingredients for mold growth, and so a dry pallet is at relatively low risk for attracting a mold spore and housing its growth.
Pricing Recycled pallets are significantly more cost effective than brand new pallets. Based on national averages, recycled pallets tend to cost about 40 - 60% the price of their new pallet counterparts.
Disadvantages
Inconsistent quality Because recycled pallets are collected from various locations, there is always the possibility of inconsistent quality in deckboard spacing, stringer or deckboard thickness, or nails or staples that are not perfectly flush with the deckboards that they are nailed into. Another disadvantage to recycled pallets is the difficulty tracing exactly where each pallet has been. There is no pallet recycler that than absolutely guarantee where each pallet has been on each step of its illustrious pallet career. While many companies might not need to know this kind of information, a clean history is typically a concern for companies in heavily-regulated industries that deal with products like infant formula, powdered food ingredients, etc.
Limited supply Recycled pallets also undergo a cycle of short supply. Because a pallet recycler can only sell pallets they have picked up and repaired, recycled pallets are limited by the number of pallets available on the market. About every 3-5 years, the pallet industry undergoes an ebb and flow of having more pallets available than there is demand, and then not enough pallets to go around.
Summary
A recycled pallet will hold a couple thousand pounds, they will stay dry, you will not know exactly where it has been, but recycled pallets do a great job of taking a simple product and transporting it from Point A to Point B.

[@DavidSkinner]

I think you guys did a pretty bang-up job on this flick. Any more coming out in the near future?

[@gruberpallets]

Hi David, thank you for stopping by and watching our video. We do have some more that have not yet been released yet. Sit tight. Drink some Capri Sun while you wait.

[@robvalen5068]

My question is were to buy the runners and slats to rebuild the old pallets?

[@gruberpallets]

You can buy the components from your local sawmill! If you're buying in small quantities, you'll have to go to a home improvement store.

[@bradleylomas7525]

a moist pallet will not damage product.

[@DevonWayne]

What if your product is paper? -_-

[@marcushunter1406]

Nice video. I buy and sell pallets

[@joshcourtois9556]

What would be the best pallets for a individual to sell to a company that recycles pallets?

[@marcushunter1406]

@@joshcourtois9556 Recycling and sale or recycle goods?

[@marcushunter1406]

@Classic Gentleman No sir, I been doing it for 20yrs.

[@ChAoTiCGood88]

@@joshcourtois9556 48 x 40 (4 way) pallets are the staple

[@user-vd9cw6df9p]

I'm getting ready to do that myself this month, got any advice?