A pallet whose deck boards are flush with the outside edges of the stringers or blocks, with no overhang.
Detailed Definition
On a flush pallet the ends of the deck boards line up with the outer faces of the stringers or blocks, so nothing projects past the frame. The opposite is a wing pallet, where boards overhang the outside stringers on one deck or both, known as single wing and double wing designs. The standard 48 x 40 inch grocery style pallet and most block pallets are flush designs.
Flush versus wing construction
Wings are useful when loads are lifted with bar slings or crane hooks, which grip under the overhanging deck boards. Flush pallets give up that option but have clean vertical sides. That makes them easier to stack, wrap and convey, and less likely to snag on rack uprights, conveyor guides or trailer walls. Overhanging boards are also more exposed to impact and can break off in handling.
Specifying and checking a flush pallet
On a flush stringer pallet the deck boards are cut to the full pallet width, so their ends sit level with the outside stringers. Check that the stated footprint is measured to the frame, not to an overhanging deck. On receiving, look for boards that stick out because of poor trimming or shifted nailing, since even a small overhang can catch on automated equipment. Flush designs can be single faced or double faced, and two-way or four-way, so state those features separately in the spec.
Where flush pallets are the safer choice
Automated storage systems, pallet conveyors and stretch wrap machines usually expect straight, flush sides with consistent dimensions. Pooled pallets and most retail pallet programs also use flush designs. If product will be handled by automation at any point, specify flush construction and ask the receiving site for its dimension tolerances.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would anyone choose a wing pallet over a flush pallet?
Wing pallets suit loads that are lifted with slings, spreader bars or crane hooks, because the overhang gives the lifting gear something to grip. They show up in some building materials, bagged products and heavy industrial uses. For warehouses that move pallets mainly with forklifts and pallet jacks, flush pallets are usually more practical, since they behave better in racking, on conveyors and in trailers, and their edges are less exposed to damage.
Is a GMA style pallet a flush pallet?
Yes. The common 48 x 40 inch grocery style pallet is built with deck boards that end flush with the outer stringers on both the top and bottom decks. That flush, double faced layout is part of why it stacks and racks predictably. If a 48 x 40 pallet has boards overhanging the stringers, it is a wing variant and may not be accepted where a standard grocery style pallet is required, so check before shipping.