A stringer pallet uses long parallel boards (stringers), usually three, running the length of the pallet to support the deck.
Detailed Definition
Stringer pallets are the most common wood pallet construction in the US. The 48 x 40 GMA-style pallet is a stringer pallet with three 48-inch stringers, typically notched for partial four-way entry. Without notches, a stringer pallet is two-way entry: forks go in only from the ends, between the stringers. Stringer pallets use fewer parts than block pallets and are straightforward to build and repair, but forks entering through notches have less room and support than in a true four-way block pallet.
Two-way vs partial four-way
An unnotched stringer pallet can only be lifted from its two ends. Cutting notches into the stringers lets forklift tines enter from the sides too, which makes the pallet partial four-way. Pallet jacks, however, generally still enter only from the ends, because the bottom deck boards block their load wheels on the notched sides. Notching also reduces the stringers' strength when the pallet is lifted from the side.
Stringer pallet vs block pallet
A block pallet replaces stringers with blocks at the corners, edges and center, joined by stringer boards, so forks and pallet jacks can enter fully from all four sides. Block pallets are common in rental pools and in Europe, while user-owned US pallets are mostly stringer pallets. The choice depends on handling equipment, automation, return logistics and what the receiver requires. If a customer or pool requires block pallets, get its exact specification before you build or buy.
Specifying a stringer pallet
- Dimensions, with stringer length first.
- Number and size of stringers, and notch requirements.
- Top and bottom deck board count, thickness and spacing.
- Fastener type and pattern.
- Required capacities and any ISPM 15 treatment.
Authoritative Sources
- National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA): the US trade association representing wood pallet manufacturers, recyclers, and component producers, founded in 1947.
- ASTM International (ASTM): the global standards body that publishes ASTM D1185 (Standard Test Methods for Pallets and Related Structures Employed in Materials Handling and Shipping).
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dimension is listed first for a stringer pallet?
In common US practice, the stringer length is stated first, followed by the deck board length. A 48 x 40 pallet therefore has 48-inch stringers and 40-inch deck boards. Getting this backwards can produce pallets whose stringers run the wrong way for your rack, conveyors or trailer loading pattern, so confirm the convention on any drawing or quote before ordering.
Can a pallet jack enter a stringer pallet from the notched side?
Usually not. Notches are sized for forklift tines. A pallet jack's forks carry load wheels that must reach the floor between the bottom deck boards, and on the notched sides of a stringer pallet those boards are in the way. Pallet jacks normally handle stringer pallets from the two ends. If you need pallet jack access from all four sides, consider a block pallet.