Block vs stringer pallets: the difference under the deck

BOX 01The comparison

BOX 02How to choose

If the dock has forklifts only, a stringer pallet works and costs less. If it has pallet jacks that approach from the side, or racking that loads from several aisles, block pallets or notched stringers save the time spent turning pallets. For export and pooled freight, where the next dock is unknown, block pallets are the safer choice.

The frames are drawn on the stringer page and the block page. If a pile on your dock is mostly one build, say so in a sell request, because buyers search by it.

BOX 03Both can be any grade or size

Build is separate from grade and size. A block pallet can be Grade B and a stringer Grade A. A 48 x 40 comes in both. For a quick lookup of the entry names see the build hub.

BOX 04A decision in three steps

1. Check how the pallet is moved. If forks enter from four sides, you want block.
2. Check the load. Heavy, concentrated loads are safer on block.
3. Check the budget and the repeat trips. A stringer pallet that makes one trip is enough.

These steps leave out a lot, but they settle most Memphis dock decisions. Where they do not, ask for both and compare.

BOX 05A comparison by failure mode

Stringer pallets fail at the stringers: a crack, a split near a notch, a nail that has pulled out. Block pallets fail at the blocks: a split block, a loose nail, a deck board that has pulled away. Knowing the usual failure tells you what to look for in a pile.

When you inspect a stack, look at the weak points of the build. A stringer pile is judged by the stringers underneath, a block pile by the corners and center blocks.

BOX 06Weight and handling

A block pallet is usually a few pounds heavier than a stringer pallet of the same size. Over thousands of pallets, that adds to trailer weight and handling effort. For light loads, the difference rarely matters. For loads near the weight limit of a trailer, it can.

BOX 07A simple rule of thumb

If the pallet goes through a rack or an automated system, lean to block. If it goes on a truck once and is discarded, lean to stringer. If you are unsure, send photographs of the pallet you have now.