Not every pallet works with every piece of material handling equipment. Here's how to ensure compatibility.
One of the most overlooked aspects of pallet selection is equipment compatibility. Not every pallet design works with every forklift, pallet jack, or automated system. Getting this wrong can damage product, equipment, and people.
Pallet jacks (manual or powered) enter the pallet from the front, sliding under the top deck between the stringers. This means the pallet must have bottom boards that create a channel for the jack's forks. Standard stringer pallets with notched stringers allow partial 4-way entry for pallet jacks.
Forklifts can enter from any side that has an opening. Stringer pallets allow 2-way entry (from the ends) or partial 4-way entry (if stringers are notched). Block pallets allow true 4-way entry from any direction — making them ideal for high-throughput operations.
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS) often have tight dimensional tolerances. Pallets for automated systems should be Grade A or better, with consistent dimensions and flat, even surfaces. Even small warps or protruding nails can cause jams.
Our advice: before ordering pallets, confirm what material handling equipment will be used. Tell us, and we'll ensure every pallet we supply is compatible with your operation.