Deck boards, stringers, blocks, lead boards — learn the terminology and understand how each pallet component contributes to performance.
To communicate effectively about pallets — whether you're ordering, inspecting, or specifying — it helps to know the terminology. Here's a guided tour of every part of a standard pallet.
Top deck boards: The horizontal boards that form the pallet's upper surface — where your product sits. Standard GMA pallets have 7 top deck boards. The outermost boards are called "lead boards" and take the most abuse from forklift entry.
Bottom deck boards: The horizontal boards on the underside. These provide a bearing surface for stacking and racking. Standard pallets have 5 bottom boards.
Stringers: The long structural members that run between the top and bottom decks on stringer-style pallets. Most pallets have 3 stringers — two on the outside edges and one in the center. Stringers are typically 2×4 or 3×4 lumber and carry the pallet's load.
Blocks: Block-style pallets use 9 blocks (cubes of wood) instead of stringers to separate the decks. Blocks allow true 4-way forklift entry and are generally stronger than stringers.
Notches: Stringer pallets often have notches cut into the stringers to allow partial entry by pallet jacks from the non-fork sides. Without notches, stringer pallets are strictly 2-way entry.
Chamfers: The angled cuts on the bottom edges of the top lead boards. Chamfers make it easier for forklift tines to slide under the pallet deck. Many GMA pallets have chamfered lead boards.
Understanding these components helps you specify exactly what you need, inspect incoming pallets effectively, and communicate with your pallet supplier. Questions? We're always happy to talk shop.