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What Is a Skid vs a Pallet?

A skid is a flat platform with no bottom deck boards, while a pallet has both top and bottom deck boards forming a more structurally rigid unit.

Resource: AnswerSources: 2

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Quick Answer: A skid is a flat platform with no bottom deck boards, while a pallet has both top and bottom deck boards forming a more structurally rigid unit.

Flatbed pallet delivery on freight corridor

Detailed Answer

Historically, "skid" referred to single-deck transport platforms (top boards only on stringers/runners) and "pallet" to double-deck construction (top and bottom boards). In modern usage the terms are often used interchangeably, though "skid" still typically implies single-deck. Skids are easier to drag/slide on floors but offer less protection to the underlying surface. Pallets distribute load more evenly and are required for most rack-storage applications. Most US B2B distribution uses double-deck pallets per NWPCA Uniform Standard.

Authoritative Sources

NWPCA Uniform Standard
ISO 6780

Companion Resources

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