Scrap Pallets Disposal and Recycling Options

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Shelves filled with construction materials like tiles and wood pallets in a warehouse setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Shelves filled with construction materials like tiles and wood pallets in a warehouse setting.

Disposing of scrap pallets can be a challenge, but there are several options to consider. One option is to donate them to local charities or non-profit organizations.

According to the article, pallets can be donated to organizations that accept used pallets for reuse or recycling. This not only helps those in need but also reduces waste.

Donating pallets is a great way to give back to the community and reduce waste. It's also a good idea to check with local charities or organizations beforehand to see if they accept pallet donations.

Some businesses and organizations may also accept used pallets for recycling.

Disposal Options

Over 90% of pallets used in the United States are made of wood and are used by homeowners and contractors alike. You can dispose of them through various methods.

You can take them to a large or ongoing project at a place like a distribution center or solar installation job site, where dozens or even hundreds of pallets are used per project. This is a great way to reuse them.

Credit: youtube.com, Become An Expert - Pallet Disposal

If you're looking for alternative disposal methods, consider the type of pallet you're working with. If it's a plastic pallet, you may need to contact industrial or commercial recycling services.

Here are some common materials that can be disposed of through recycling services:

Many companies, like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Walmart, return, recycle, and reuse their pallets through internal logistics teams or third-party companies.

5 Ways to Dispose

Over 90% of pallets used in the United States are made of wood, so it's no surprise that wood pallet disposal is a common concern.

You can dispose of wood pallets by calling a hauling company or by taking them to a local recycling center. However, some companies may have specific rules for disposing of pallets.

Larger projects that use dozens or even hundreds of pallets may require special arrangements for disposal.

If you're looking for a more eco-friendly solution, consider contacting a company that specializes in pallet recycling, like JC Pallets Co. in Texas.

Take a look at this: Wood Shipping Pallet

Aerial Shot of Wood Pallet in Stacks
Credit: pexels.com, Aerial Shot of Wood Pallet in Stacks

Here are some options for disposing of pallets:

Some companies, like Home Depot and Lowe's, return, recycle, and reuse their pallets, so it's worth asking your local store manager if they have a pallet recycling program.

Smaller businesses may not have the resources to recycle their pallets and may end up tossing them in the dumpster.

Review and Stamps

When reviewing pallets for DIY projects, it's essential to check for stamps or markings that indicate the pallet's origin and treatment.

Pallets from outside the country require an International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) stamp on the pallets.

Avoid blue-painted pallets, as they often contain chemicals. Brightly colored pallets, such as those painted red, should also be avoided.

Pallets marked with MB for Methyl Bromide, a fumigation chemical treatment, should be avoided for DIY projects. Pallets marked with SF (Sulphuryl Flouride) are safer than those marked with MB, but still best avoided.

Approved markings include:

  • HT (Heat Treated): Heat treatment using conventional steam or dry kiln heat chamber to kill pests and insects
  • DB (Debarked): Pallets made from wood with no bark to ensure penetration of heat treatment
  • DH (Dielectric Heated): Heat treatment using dielectric heating (microwaves or radio frequencies)
  • KD (Kiln Dried): Heated in a kiln to kill pests and prevent fungal growth

Warning

It's essential to exercise caution when handling pallets, especially if they've been chemically treated. Never use them inside the house or around edible plants.

Cutting, sanding, or burning these wood products can release toxic substances into the air. Always wear heavy-duty gloves when picking up or working with pallets.

If you plan to cut or sand a pallet, use a mask and eye protection to prevent exposure to airborne toxins.

Inspect the Wood

Credit: youtube.com, Pallet Disposal in MI - We Buy Wood Pallets

Inspecting the wood is a crucial step in determining the suitability of a pallet for reuse or repurposing. Look for nails sticking out and splinters, which can be hazardous to handle.

Check the front and back of the pallet for massive fissures or splits in the wood. These can weaken the structure and make it difficult to use safely.

Avoid using pallets with grease or oil stains, as they can be hard to remove or cover up with paint. Petroleum stains are particularly problematic.

The best pallets often come from dry goods industries, where lighter-weight goods are carried and the wood integrity remains intact.

If you're unsure about the quality of a pallet, it's best to err on the side of caution and choose a different one.

Selling and Buying Pallets

Selling and buying pallets can be a lucrative business, especially if you know where to find the right buyers. You can sell pallets regardless of their condition, but the price will vary depending on their size and condition.

A man sits by stacks of wooden pallets against a rustic facade with teal doors.
Credit: pexels.com, A man sits by stacks of wooden pallets against a rustic facade with teal doors.

The average price for wood pallets in like-new or good condition is $0.50 to $4 per pallet. Consider selling smaller pallets, as they may not be as valuable as larger ones, but they'll still make you money.

Companies buying pallets will pay more for newer ones, but there's still a market for broken pallets that can be easily repaired. This is because recycling companies can repair and resell them.

To find buyers, search for pallet recycling companies in your area and contact them to get an idea of what they'll pay for different pallets. This will help you choose the company that offers the best price.

Here are some factors that affect how much a company will pay for a pallet:

  • Size: Larger pallets typically bring in more money.
  • Condition: Pallets in good condition are worth more than those in bad shape.
  • Number: The more pallets you have, the better the price you'll get.

By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision about where to sell your pallets and how much to expect for each one.

Sell

Selling pallets can be a profitable venture, especially if you know what you're doing. The average price for wood pallets in like-new or good condition is $0.50 - $4 per pallet.

Aerial view showcasing large stacks of wooden pallets in an outdoor storage facility in Lake City, MN.
Credit: pexels.com, Aerial view showcasing large stacks of wooden pallets in an outdoor storage facility in Lake City, MN.

Smaller pallets will still make you money, but they're not valued as much as larger ones, even in similar conditions. Condition is also a major factor, with companies paying more for newer pallets.

The number of pallets you have also affects the price, with more pallets generally bringing in more money. You can expect to get more money for a larger pallet in good condition than a smaller one in a similar condition.

Pallets that are still in fairly okay shape can be repaired and sold again for reuse, making them worth more to recycling companies. Many recycling services will offer lower rates for pallets in bad condition, and some will even pay you to take them away.

Here are some national pallet distributors you can consider:

  • Craigslist
  • Recycle.net
  • R&R Pallets
  • Wiley Pallets
  • Kamps Pallets
  • General Pallet
  • First Alliance Logistics Management
  • North American Pallet Recycling Network
  • Pallet One
  • Atlantic Pallet Exchange
  • South Carolina Wood Waste Management
  • Tri County Pallet
  • Martin Pallet Inc.
  • Iron City Wood Products
  • Sierra Pallet
  • San Fernando Valley Pallet
  • M&J Pallet Recycling Inc.

Requirements for Selling Wood

To get started with selling wood pallets, you'll need to consider the right equipment. This includes a vehicle that can accommodate the size and volume of the pallets you'll be transporting.

Man operating a forklift indoors loading wooden pallets in a warehouse.
Credit: pexels.com, Man operating a forklift indoors loading wooden pallets in a warehouse.

Standard pallets are 48”x40”, making it difficult to fit them into a regular vehicle. You'll need a vehicle that can transport a high quantity of wooden pallets to be efficient.

If you can't afford a specialized vehicle, you can store some pallets in your current car or truck, but this will require making multiple trips and limiting your income.

To protect your cargo during transport, consider building walls around your vehicle or stacking pallets vertically in a truck bed.

Check this out: Pallet Truck En Español

Donation and Refurbishment

Donation can be a great option for getting rid of pallets. Consider donating them to agencies like I-Beam that build temporary shelters for the homeless, refugees, and disaster victims.

Research local nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity to see if they accept pallets. You can also donate pallets that have not been treated with chemicals as firewood or for mulching.

Before donating, check local restrictions on firewood to ensure it's allowed. This will help you make the most of your donation.

Refurbishing pallets is another way to give them new life. Some large pallet management companies will fix broken, damaged, or soiled wood pallets and redistribute them into the market.

These companies will also repurpose pallets for mulch used in landscaping or for animal bedding.

Donate

Red and Green Plastic Crates on Wooden Pallets
Credit: pexels.com, Red and Green Plastic Crates on Wooden Pallets

Donating pallets can make a big difference in your community. I-Beam is an agency that builds temporary shelters for the homeless, refugees, and disaster victims, and they accept pallet donations.

You can also consider donating pallets to Habitat for Humanity. They might be able to put them to good use.

Refurbish

Refurbish is a fantastic way to breathe new life into old pallets, and it's a crucial step in reducing waste. Many large pallet management companies will fix broken, damaged, or soiled wood pallets and redistribute them into the market.

These companies will often repurpose pallets for mulch used in landscaping or for animal bedding. Before mulching your own pallets, be sure to remove the nails from the boards.

Wood pallet recyclers and refurbishers typically only accept pallets that haven't been treated with chemicals. This is a key consideration when deciding whether to refurbish or recycle your pallets.

Removing nails from pallets is a simple step that can make a big difference in waste diversion goals.

Recycling

Credit: youtube.com, Recycling Pallets for Woodshop Projects

You can recycle your scrap pallets, and it's easier than you think. The National Wood Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) provides a database of wood pallet recyclers across the United States, so you can find a recycler in your state.

Recycling options are limited, but some large distributors and producers of wood pallets offer recycling services. This means you can get rid of your pallets sustainably and reduce waste.

To find a recycler near you, visit the NWPCA website and search for wood pallet recyclers in your state. Keep in mind that the size and condition of your pallets may impact your recycling capabilities.

Here are some benefits of pallet recycling in Texas:

  • Reduced Environmental Impact: Recycling pallets helps conserve natural resources and minimize landfill waste, contributing to a greener Texas.
  • Cost Savings: Pallet recycling services can offer competitive pricing for pallet pick-up, potentially offsetting disposal costs.
  • Streamlined Operations: Efficient pallet pick-up services eliminate the hassle and cost of managing used pallet disposal yourself.
  • Positive Sustainability Image: Demonstrating your commitment to environmental responsibility contributes to a more sustainable Texas.

Used Types & Sizes

We repair pallets of many different dimensions, primarily 48″x40″.

Common sizes include 48″x40″ 4-stringer pallets, 48″x48″, 48″x36″, 44″x44″, 36″x36″, and Euro block pallets.

For a recommendation on the best used pallet for your company, contact our Sales department.

Custom-sized used pallets can be assembled to any specification required using remanufactured pallets, which are a budget-friendly option that utilizes reclaimed lumber.

Capacity & Orders

Empty industrial warehouse featuring stacked pallets and a closed garage door under fluorescent lighting.
Credit: pexels.com, Empty industrial warehouse featuring stacked pallets and a closed garage door under fluorescent lighting.

We can process a massive amount of used pallets, with a daily capacity of over 4,000 48″x40″ pallets.

Our team is equipped to handle large orders, and we offer full or half trailer load deliveries for your convenience.

Recycle

Recycling is a great way to reduce waste and minimize your environmental footprint. You can recycle your old pallets through various options available.

The National Wood Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) provides a database of wood pallet recyclers across the United States, making it easy to find a recycler in your area.

Recycling your pallets can also be beneficial for your business, as it can help reduce costs and create a positive sustainability image.

Here are some benefits of pallet recycling in Texas:

  • Reduced Environmental Impact: Recycling pallets helps conserve natural resources and minimize landfill waste, contributing to a greener Texas.
  • Cost Savings: We offer competitive pricing for pallet pick-up, potentially offsetting disposal costs. In some cases, high-quality used pallets may even have a monetary value.
  • Streamlined Operations: Our efficient pallet pick-up service eliminates the hassle and cost of managing used pallet disposal yourself.
  • Positive Sustainability Image: Demonstrate your commitment to environmental responsibility and contribute to a more sustainable Texas.

Services and Support

We offer a range of services to help you get the most out of your scrap pallets.

Our team is available to provide guidance on the best ways to repurpose your pallets, whether that's for a DIY project or to create a functional piece of furniture.

Credit: youtube.com, Pallet Recycling & Shredding Service - RPS Ltd Service Film

We offer free collection of scrap pallets from your business or home, making it easy to get rid of unwanted materials.

Our pallets are made from durable wood, typically 2x4 or 2x6 lumber, and are often used in construction and packaging.

We can deliver pallets to your doorstep, perfect for those who need them for a specific project.

Our pallets are a great resource for crafting unique and functional items, such as planters, shelves, and even dog houses.

With our pallets, you can create something truly one-of-a-kind that will add character to any room in your home.

We also offer a repair service for damaged pallets, extending their lifespan and reducing waste.

Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your experience with us is seamless and hassle-free.

We offer a variety of pallet sizes to suit your needs, from standard to custom sizes.

Our pallets are a great way to get creative and think outside the box, or should we say, outside the pallet.

A different take: Free Pallets Home Depot

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money is a pallet worth?

Pallet prices vary from $4.25 to $25.00 or more, depending on the type and size. For a standard 48″ x 40″ pallet, prices range from $11.25 to $12.50.

What pallets are worth money?

Standard pallet sizes like 48×40 and 48×45 tend to have higher sellback values due to their versatility and widespread use in various industries. If you have custom-sized pallets, they may still have value, but it's generally lower than standard sizes

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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