A pallet that forklifts can enter from all four sides. Block construction gives true four-way entry; notched stringers give partial four-way entry with limits on side lifting.
Detailed Definition
Buyers asking for a four-way entry pallet usually mean a block pallet, built with nine blocks joined by stringer boards so all four sides have full openings. A notched stringer pallet also accepts forks from four sides, but the notches are smaller and lifting from the sides is rated lower, so it is called partial four-way. A specification should name the construction, not just the entry type.
Common four-way entry pallet types
- Wood block pallets with nine blocks, stringer boards and top and bottom decks.
- Pooled rental pallets, many of which use block construction.
- Many plastic pallets, which are molded with open channels on every side.
- EUR/EPAL pallets, 1200 x 800 mm block pallets used across Europe.
What to confirm when ordering
State the footprint, the construction (block or notched stringer) and whether pallet jacks must enter from every side. Give the load, the support condition (floor, rack or forks) and any automation the pallet must run on. For block pallets, ask what the blocks are made of, since solid wood, laminated and composite blocks behave differently under impact. Check a first sample in your racks and with your trucks before releasing a full order, and keep the approved sample as a reference for later deliveries.
Handling and repair differences
Block pallets have more joints and parts than stringer pallets, so repairs involve different components, such as replacing a split block or a stringer board. Recycled block pallets are less common than recycled stringer pallets in many US markets, so availability and lead time are worth checking. Plastic four-way pallets avoid wood repairs but cost more to replace if damaged beyond use.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do pallet pools favor four-way entry pallets?
Pooled pallets pass through many different warehouses, trucks and retailers, so they need to work with whatever equipment each site uses. A four-way block design can be picked up from any side, which speeds handling and reduces the chance of forks striking the pallet from an awkward angle. Block construction also suits repeated reuse and repair. Each pool sets its own design, so check the pool's specification for exact details.
Can a four-way entry pallet be racked in any direction?
Not always. Even if forks can enter from every side, the pallet's strength in a rack depends on which members span the beams. Many block pallets can be racked across either dimension, but the rated racked load can differ by direction. Ask the supplier for the racked capacity in each orientation and follow the rack designer's guidance on how pallets should be placed, especially for heavy loads.