Resources & Knowledge Base
Everything you need to know about pallets, from size specifications to industry standards.
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Pallet Size Guide
Comprehensive guide to all standard pallet sizes used in North America and internationally. Dimensions, weight capacities, and recommended applications.
ComplianceIndustry Standards
ISPM 15, GMA specifications, NWPCA guidelines, and other standards that govern the pallet industry. Stay compliant with our detailed breakdowns.
InsightsBlog & Articles
Expert insights on pallet industry trends, sustainability practices, cost-saving strategies, and supply chain optimization. Updated monthly.
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about buying, selling, recycling pallets, and working with Commercial Pallet.
SustainabilityEco Impact Calculator
Calculate the environmental benefit of recycling your pallets. See trees saved, CO₂ prevented, and landfill space conserved.
GreenAbout Our Sustainability Mission
Learn about our zero-waste operations, carbon-neutral logistics, and circular pallet economy that diverts 98% of material from landfills.
Pallet Industry Glossary
Quick reference for common terms used in the pallet and wood packaging industry.
GMA Pallet
The standard 48×40" pallet established by the Grocery Manufacturers Association. The most common pallet size in North America.
Stringer
A long board running lengthwise that connects the top and bottom deck boards. The primary structural member in stringer-style pallets.
Block Pallet
A pallet using blocks at corners and midpoints for support instead of stringers. Provides true 4-way forklift entry.
ISPM 15
International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15. Requires heat treatment or fumigation of wood packaging for international shipping.
Heat Treatment (HT)
Heating wood to a core temperature of 56°C for 30 minutes to kill pests. The standard treatment method for ISPM 15 compliance.
Deck Board
The flat boards forming the top and bottom surfaces of a pallet. Top deck boards bear the direct weight of the load.
Lead Board
The outermost deck board on each end of a pallet. Often the first to take damage from forklift impact.
Notch
A cutout in the stringer that allows forklift tine entry from the side. Converts 2-way stringer pallets to partial 4-way entry.
Chamfer
A beveled edge on the bottom lead boards that eases pallet jack and forklift entry.
Dynamic Load
The maximum weight a pallet can carry while being moved by a forklift or pallet jack.
Static Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support when sitting stationary on a flat surface or racked.
Racking Load
The maximum weight a pallet can support when racked across its stringers with nothing supporting the center span.
Dunnage
Wood material used inside shipping containers or on pallets to protect, separate, or brace cargo during transit.
Wing
When deck boards extend beyond the stringer or block on a pallet, creating an overhang. Used for sling handling.
Pallet Industry by the Numbers
Pallets in circulation in the US
New pallets produced annually
Pallets repaired each year
Of pallets in the US are wood
Source: NWPCA industry data, Virginia Tech pallet research.