Plastic vs. Wooden Pallets: Which Is the Right Choice for You?

Approximately 90% of pallets are made of wood, while plastic pallets account for a smaller percentage of the market.

The downside of wooden pallets is that they can absorb moisture and often require fumigation, a process where gases are applied to treat the wood and eliminate pests, so it's important to check the regulations of the countries the pallet will pass through. In contrast, plastic pallets are easy to clean, making them ideal for industries like food and pharmaceuticals. Wooden pallets are biodegradable and can be easily repaired, while plastic pallets, though not biodegradable, can be melted down and reused.

Plastic pallets are more expensive, but they have a longer lifespan and can withstand repeated use in transportation. In contrast, wooden pallets may wear out after just a few trips, making them less durable in the long term.  Plastic pallets are ideal for closed-loop supply chains, where they can be reused multiple times. Plastic pallets can last more than 10 years. While Plastic pallets can have a slippery surface, they are well-suited for RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags.

Wooden pallets can support more weight than plastic ones, but they may be more challenging to handle when it comes to stacking for example as they are heavier. They also pose safety risks due to exposed nails, which can cause injury. Additionally, wooden pallets can potentially puncture certain commodities if not properly packaged. For example, drums containing liquids might experience spillage if the pallets are not in good condition or if the right packaging is not utilized such as a corrugated sheet is preferrable to be placed between the drum and the pallet.

The lightweight nature of plastic pallets can lead to savings on both shipping and customs costs.

The choice between wooden and plastic pallets depends on various factors, including the country involved in transportation, the weight capacity required, reusability, the types of products being transported, and the use of technology such as RFID. These considerations will help determine the most suitable pallet option for your needs.