Both materials have their strengths. Here's a practical comparison to help you choose the right pallet material for your application.
The wood vs. plastic debate in the pallet world isn't about which is "better" — it's about which is better for YOUR specific application. Let's compare them across the dimensions that actually matter.
Cost: Wood wins on initial purchase price, especially for recycled pallets. A Grade B wood pallet runs $4–$7; a comparable plastic pallet costs $15–$50. However, plastic pallets last 10× longer, so the total cost of ownership can favor plastic for closed-loop systems where pallets return to you.
Hygiene: Plastic wins decisively. Non-porous, washable, resistant to bacteria and mold. For food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cleanroom environments, plastic is often the only compliant option.
Weight: Plastic is typically 30% lighter than wood. This reduces shipping costs and makes handling easier for workers.
Repairability: Wood wins. A broken board on a wood pallet is a $1 repair. A cracked plastic pallet is usually unrepairable and must be replaced entirely (though the plastic can be recycled).
International Shipping: Plastic wins. It's exempt from ISPM-15 phytosanitary regulations. No heat treatment, no stamps, no compliance hassle.
Our recommendation: Use recycled wood for most domestic applications (best value) and plastic for food/pharma, export, or high-cycle closed-loop operations.