Wooden pallets

New or used pallets: which is right for your company.

Used pallets can lower your costs, but they don't work for everything. This comparison helps you decide based on your load, your client and your destination.

Grupo Spectra teamOctober 27, 20265 min read
Pallets de madera nuevos y usados apilados en almacén

Many companies use new and used pallets at the same time: new for what goes out to the client and used for internal handling. The key is knowing where each one performs best.

Differences between new and used pallets

CriterionNew palletUsed pallet
CostHigherLower
UniformityConsistent dimensions and finishVaries with selection
StrengthAs per its specification sheetDepends on condition and refurbishment
Image with the clientExcellentGood if well selected
Recommended useShipments, demanding clients, automated warehousesInternal handling, storage, general shipments

When a new pallet makes sense

  • When your client requires a uniform pallet or one with a specific specification sheet.
  • When you use racks or automated warehouses, where an irregular pallet can jam.
  • When the load is heavy or high-value and you don't want to take risks.
  • When you export and need pallets built and treated for export. See the ISPM 15 guide.

When a used pallet makes sense

  • For internal handling between areas of your plant or warehouse.
  • For storing goods that don't go out to the end client.
  • For domestic shipments where the client doesn't require a new pallet.
  • When you need large volumes and want to reduce costs.

A used pallet is not the same as a pallet in poor condition. The difference is in the selection: a good supplier discards damaged pallets and refurbishes the ones that need it.

How to tell if a used pallet is in good condition

  1. The top boards have no breaks or large cracks.
  2. The blocks are solid and complete.
  3. There are no protruding nails that could damage the load.
  4. The wood is dry, with no mold or chemical stains.
  5. The size is the one you need, usually EAN 1.20 × 1.00 m.

Grupo Spectra's option

At Grupo Spectra we manufacture new pallets and also select and refurbish used EAN pallets. We can supply up to 10,000 new and 20,000 used pallets per month. One example: for Alicorp and Ajeper logistics projects we delivered 20,000 new and 65,000 used pallets, combining both types according to their use.

If your company has used pallets it no longer needs, we buy them too. See all options on our page for wooden pallets.

Frequently asked questions

About new and used pallets

Quick answers on this topic.

Have a specific question?Write to us and a person from our team will reply.
Are used pallets reliable?
Yes, if they go through proper selection and refurbishment. Damaged ones are discarded and those that need it are repaired.
Can I export with used pallets?
It depends on your client and the destination. For export, wooden pallets must comply with ISPM 15, with treatment and stamp.
Do you buy used pallets?
Yes. We buy used pallets from other companies and refurbish them.
What is the minimum order?
We handle orders from 250 pallets, new or used.