Hardwood pallets (oak, maple) higher load. Softwood (pine, spruce) lighter, lower cost.
Hardwood Properties
Hardwood pallets (oak, maple, mixed hardwood) offer higher load capacity (4,600+ lbs static) and longer cycle life. Heavier (40-60 lbs) and more costly.
Softwood Properties
Softwood pallets (pine, spruce, fir) lighter (25-35 lbs), lower cost, easier to nail. Capacity typically 3,500-4,000 lbs static.
Cost
Hardwood: $14-22 new GMA. Softwood: $11-16 new GMA.
Best Use Cases
Hardwood: heavy industrial loads, automotive parts, machinery. Softwood: lightweight retail, FMCG, food packaging.
Mixed Hardwood
Most US recycled GMA pallets are mixed hardwood (deckboards) over hardwood or softwood stringers, optimizing cost vs durability.
Companion Resources
How does United States Pallets compare to United States-based local pallet suppliers?
Local United States suppliers offer geographic proximity. United States Pallets offers nationwide sourcing depth, multi-grade inventory always in stock, sub-2-business-hour quote response, audit-ready documentation, and standing-order automation that local yards typically don't match.
Does United States Pallets ship pallet comparison to all of United States?
Yes. We deliver to every commercial address in United States, with same-day shipping standard in our Southeast/Mid-Atlantic core and scheduled weekly delivery elsewhere. national-area accounts are typical - submit a quote with your dock location and we route accordingly.
What credit terms does United States Pallets offer national customers?
Net-30 credit terms standard after the first 1-3 prepaid or COD loads while credit is being established. Submit a credit application with three trade references; approval typically processes within 48 hours. Volume accounts can negotiate net-45 or net-60.
How fast does United States Pallets deliver to national, United States?
Same-day shipping in our Southeast/Mid-Atlantic core (FL, GA, AL, TN, MS, SC, NC, KY, VA) and scheduled weekly delivery elsewhere. Express options available for national rush orders. Quote response under 2 business hours, dispatch within hours of order confirmation.
Does United States Pallets supply pallet comparison for export from national?
Yes, with ISPM-15 heat-treated pallets carrying IPPC stamps and full ISPM-15 documentation. Required for international shipments to all WTO member countries. Common for national customers with port access via United States's major export gateways.
Quote Request
Sub-2-hour response.
