Pallet Care and Maintenance Tips
Good care helps pallets last longer and makes them safer to use. These habits work for most wooden pallets.
Storage and Handling
Storage
- •Keep pallets in a dry, covered area when you can
- •Stack empty pallets squarely and at a safe height
- •Allow air to move around stored pallets
- •Use older stock first
- •Follow your local fire code for pallet storage
Handling
- •Use forks that suit the pallet and enter fully
- •Center loads to spread the weight
- •Stay within the rated load
- •Set pallets down gently
- •Inspect pallets before use and remove damaged ones
When to Repair or Replace
Repair if
- •One or two boards are broken
- •Loose boards can be re-fastened
- •Structural damage is minor
- •Repair costs less than replacement
Replace if
- •Several stringers or blocks are damaged
- •There is rot or insect damage
- •The pallet is badly warped
- •It has been contaminated