Stringer Pallets vs. Block Pallets: Which is Right for Your Warehouse?
Stringer pallets use three lengthwise boards and allow forklift entry from two sides. Block pallets use corner and center blocks and allow entry from all four sides. For most Midwest warehouses, stringer pallets are the right answer. But there are specific situations where block pallets earn their higher price tag.
At a Glance
- Three lengthwise boards (stringers) support the deck
- 2-way forklift entry (4-way with notched stringers)
- Lower cost, wider availability
- Easier and cheaper to repair
- Standard in most U.S. warehousing
- Nine blocks (corners, edges, center) support the deck
- True 4-way forklift entry from any side
- Higher cost, less common in recycled stock
- More involved repairs
- Standard in automotive and some food sectors
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Stringer | Block |
|---|---|---|
| Forklift entry | 2-way (or notched) | 4-way |
| Pallet jack compatible | Limited | Yes |
| Typical cost | Lower | Higher |
| Recycled availability | High | Moderate |
| Load distribution | Good | Better for heavy loads |
| Repair complexity | Simple | More involved |
| Common Midwest use | General manufacturing, 3PLs | Automotive, certain food |
Stringer Pallets: The Workhorse
Stringer pallets are the most common type in the U.S. and the standard choice across most manufacturing and warehousing operations. Three horizontal boards, called stringers, run along the length of the pallet and support the deck boards on top.
The main limitation is two-way forklift entry. Standard stringer pallets only accept forks from the ends, not the sides. Notched stringer pallets add cutouts in the stringers to allow partial side entry, but it is still not true four-way.
On the upside, stringer pallets are more affordable, more available, and easier to repair. For most standard warehouse applications, that is the better trade-off.
Block Pallets: More Flexibility, Higher Cost
Block pallets replace the lengthwise stringers with blocks at each corner, the center of each edge, and the middle of the pallet. This design allows true four-way forklift entry, meaning a forklift can pick up the pallet from any side without restriction.
Block pallets also tend to handle heavier loads more evenly because the blocks distribute weight differently than stringers. They are standard in some industries, including automotive and certain food manufacturing environments.
The trade-off is cost. Block pallets cost meaningfully more than stringer pallets of the same size, and they are less widely available for recycled stock. Repairs are also more involved.
QUICK DECISION GUIDE
Choose stringer if: you use standard counterbalance forklifts, can position pallets for 2-way entry, and want the best cost-to-availability ratio.
Choose block if: you use reach trucks, pallet jacks, or automated equipment that needs side entry, or your customers specify block pallets for inbound shipments.
How to Decide
The clearest indicator is your forklift situation. If your operation uses reach trucks, pallet jacks, or automated equipment that requires entry from all four sides, block pallets are the practical choice. If you are using standard counterbalance forklifts and have the flexibility to position pallets for two-way entry, stringer pallets will serve you well at a lower cost.
Your customers may also have a preference. Some large retailers and manufacturers specify block pallets for incoming shipments. Check your shipping requirements before defaulting to one or the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which type fits your racking and equipment setup? Atlas Pallets & Packaging serves manufacturers and warehouses across Chicagoland and the Midwest. Reach out and we will help you work through it.
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