Pallets are essential for packaging and moving freight. But where can you find some? Here are a few ways you can find free pallets (or how to purchase them).
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Where to Get Free Pallets
Pallets are a fixture in a loading dock or backroom. They are a cost-effective solution for shipping large or bulk goods, capable of being moved around without needing to be lifted by a human being. However, if you’ve never shipped freight before, you’re probably wondering, “Where can I get a pallet from?”
If you work for a large company, you probably receive your pallets from a third-party logistics provider or a shipping company. However, finding pallets can be challenging if you’re an individual or a small business without a loading dock. Buying pallets from a shipping supply store like ULine can be expensive, and they often come in bulk, which is problematic if you have limited storage space.
However, finding a pallet for free isn’t all that difficult; you just need to search in unexpected places. Let’s look at how you can obtain a shipping pallet for free (or for cheap, if you must) for your next shipment.
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Why Choose FreightCenter for Pallet Shipping?
Expertise in Freight Shipping: With over 25 years in the logistics industry, FreightCenter is dedicated to guiding you through the entire logistics process, from beginning to end. Our goal is to make freight shipping easy to understand and book. Don’t waste time researching and receiving quotes from individual carriers- FreightCenter’s got your back!
Competitive Rates with Tailored Solutions: We prioritize high-quality customer service without breaking your wallet. We utilize our relationships with regional and national carriers to offer you competitive, affordable rates while providing personalized solutions to your needs. Need a liftgate? We got you! Want to expedite your order? Leave it to us! We’re ready to provide tailored solutions that don’t compromise your freight shipment.
Personalized Customer Support: FreightCenter is committed to satisfying our customers. Our friendly customer support team is here to help you every step of the way, from initial inquiries to post-shipment concerns. We handle all aspects of logistics, including tracking, paperwork, and communication with carriers, so you can focus on your business while we manage your shipment. Choose us for our reliable service and affordable quotes!
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Why Do I Need a Pallet for Freight Shipping?
Pallets are flat, portable platforms freight companies and businesses use to move large, heavy objects. They can be made from wood, plastic, paper, or metal, though wooden pallets are the most popular and cheapest choice. The standard pallet dimensions are 48 x 40’’ and can hold over 4,500 lbs, but other sizes are available.
Pallets are the standard for freight shipping. Most items, even ones in a crate or box, must be palletized. There are a few reasons why this is the case:
- Pallets consolidate a shipment into a stackable, organized shape that won’t shift during transport, especially if you shrink-wrap and then strap your items onto a pallet.
- Pallets optimize space inside a warehouse or trailer, so drivers don’t have to solve a complex puzzle whenever they load freight inside.
- Pallets can hold oversized or unusually shaped items, so long as they don’t hang over the edges.
- A forklift or pallet jack can quickly move pallets during loading or unloading.
- Pallets, especially wooden ones, are inexpensive to buy or rent and can be recycled and reused multiple times.
Where To Get Free Pallets From
Pallets are a handy tool for effective freight shipping. However, actually getting them can be tricky. You can purchase them (more don that later) but they can be expensive. So that begs the question: how do you get a hold of one for free? Here are a couple of places you can receive free pallets:
Stores
Larger companies have contracts with shipping or recycling companies to take or recycle their pallets after usage. You can try calling a larger company to see if they will let you have a pallet but don’t get your hopes up.
However, small businesses and stores are a different story. They don’t usually have the luxury of a loading dock or warehouse, so they leave their pallets outside for disposal. While these stores would be more than happy to let you take their unwanted pallets, it’s still crucial for you to call a small business or ask in-store for permission before taking one.
Here are some examples of small businesses and stores that you can go to for free pallets:
- Hardware and home improvement stores
- Small garden stores
- Furniture Stores
- Pet shops
- Restaurants and bars
- Liquor stores
- Sports equipment stores
Construction Sites
Smaller construction companies have supplies and building materials shipped to them via freight companies to their project locations or headquarters. However, after deliveries are completed, they don’t usually need the pallets anymore. Call local construction companies to see if they will let you take their pallets.
Online Marketplaces
Several websites have marketplaces where you can post and sell items online such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. However, some users will also post unwanted items that can be taken for free, like Freecycle. Search these websites, as you can find free pallets from shippers like you who no longer need their pallets.
Where to Purchase Pallets
Let’s say you look high and low for a free pallet and can’t find anything. What should you do to get a pallet? If all else fails, you can buy or rent one from several places.
- Shipping supply stores (like ULine) and packaging companies sell pallets in bulk and unusual-sized ones.
- Pallet recycling companies break down used pallets and turn them into new ones. You can see if you can purchase or receive pallets from these companies, though some cater more towards small businesses.
- Some hardware stores sell plastic or metal pallets for home decoration, but can be used for shipping if needed.
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A Note About Pallet Integrity
The best wooden pallets are new or in good condition. The more times a pallet is used, the more worn out it becomes. When choosing a used pallet, inspect it for any signs of damage or deterioration. Stains and spills can devolve into mold, compromising the wood’s sturdiness, while cracks and fissures could cause the pallet to split when lifted.
Some pallets are chemically treated for quality and longevity. However, they can be problematic for people using pallets for things other than shipping, like DIY projects. Breaking or sawing off these pallets releases chemicals into the air, which can be lethal to humans, plants, and animals. While chemically treated pallets probably won’t cause any issues for regular shipping, do not keep them inside, and try not to use them to ship food or perishable goods.
Also, look out for pallets with ownership stamps on them. Some companies stamp their pallets with labels or brands to ensure they aren’t stolen or taken. If you find a free pallet with a company’s stamp on it, it’s recommended that you don’t use it, as you could get in trouble legally for doing so.
Pallet Shipping with FreightCenter
Finding free pallets requires investigating and communicating with other businesses. It can be difficult to find any quality pallets amongst the many deteriorated, unusable ones out there. However, it is worth it, as pallets are a cost-effective, reliable shipping tool that will make loading and unloading your shipment easier.
Need assistance with packaging your freight? Contact your FreightCenter agent for expert help, built from over 25 years in logistics. Try our free online quote tool or call (800) 716-7608 to get started today!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Finding Free Pallets
Q. Can I use chemically treated pallets for my shipment?
A. You can use a pallet that’s been chemically treated for shipping. Be careful, however, not to handle them indoors or near any animals, as breaking or altering them releases harmful chemicals into the environment.
Q. Why are wooden pallets recommended for shipping?
A. Plastic and metal are sturdier and last longer than wood pallets. However, wood pallets are more economical than plastic and metal. They are also easier for forklift drivers to carry, as they’re lighter than plastic or metal pallets.
Q. What if I need a pallet bigger than the 48 x 40” ones?
A. While 48 x 40” pallets are standard, other sizes are available, along with different types of pallets like skids, block pallets, stringer boards, and plywood pallets. They are harder to find, however. You might be able to come across one while looking for free pallets, or you can purchase them from a shipping supplier. Do note that carriers have a maximum size limit for liftgates if you need one for pickup. Find out the maximum weight and dimensions for the liftgate before you complete your booking.
Q. How do you ship a pallet?
A. We have articles covering this topic, but here is a basic rundown: Once you have secured a pallet, you can load your items onto it. If you are shipping boxes, stack them so nothing sticks out or hangs over the pallet edges. Crates, barrels, and other packaging should be centered on the pallet, stuffing protectors around gaps. Then, strap your pallet down with banding and shrink wrap so all items on the pallet do not wiggle. Make sure to have your shipping labels on your pallet before delivery!
3 Advantages of Using FreightCenter for Freight Shipping
25+ Years of Service
We have over 25 years of experience, as evidenced by our extensive network of professional carriers. Our knowledgeable team of shipping experts is ready to help you optimize your small business for the intricate world of logistics.
Customizable Shipping Options
Need a liftgate? No problem! Need to ship your products quickly? We've got you covered! Our FreightCenter agents can offer you tailored solutions for your specific shipping needs, no matter what kind of small business you are.
Friendly Customer Support
Our customer support team has the answers to many of your shipping questions and concerns. We’re here to help you through every step of the shipping process, from initial inquiries to post-shipment issues.
