Types of Pallets Available in Australia: Which One Is Right for Your Business?
- Published in Furniture

(Source)
Pallets make it easier for businesses to handle and store goods efficiently, thus making them an integral part of the supply chain. Be it a small-scale business or large-scale logistics, the right type of pallet will have a major impact on productivity and cost.
Australian businesses have access to various pallet options, including cardboard, plastic, and traditional wooden pallets. Each of these pallet types has its own advantages, and you need to consider them to understand which one suits your needs and interests.
Working with a reliable pallets supplier in Australia will help you get the best quality pallets that will fulfil your business requirements. The right kind of supplier will provide you with long-lasting pallets at an affordable price.
All You Need To Know About Wooden Pallets
Wooden pallets are extensively used all over Australia thanks to their low cost, strength, and ease of repair. These are readily available from almost any pallet supplier in Australia and can carry heavy loads easily.
In case of any damage, it is very easy to fix these pallets, which makes them a perfect choice for shipping and warehousing companies. However, there is also a downside to wooden pallets. This option is comparatively much heavier than the other types and can be damaged by pests or moisture if not treated properly.
Best suited for heavy-duty shipping, storage, and export, wooden pallets remain a reliable option for businesses needing strong, affordable support for their goods.
Lightweight and Hygienic Plastic Pallets
Plastic pallets are becoming more popular in Australia, especially in industries where cleanliness and hygiene matter. They’re light, easy to handle, and can be cleaned quickly, which makes them a great choice for businesses that need to keep things sanitary.
These pallets don’t absorb moisture, so they won’t rot or grow mould. They’re also reusable, which can save money over time. However, plastic pallets do cost more upfront and are not as eco-friendly as wooden ones since they’re made from synthetic materials.
Plastic pallets are best suited for the pharmaceutical, food, and electronics industries. Thus, any place that requires strict hygiene and safe, lightweight handling.
Heavy-duty and Durable Metal Pallets
Metal pallets are known for their strength and long-lasting performance. They are built to handle tough conditions and are resistant to chemicals, fire, and extreme wear and tear.
Businesses looking for pallets that can be used again and again over many years often choose metal ones through a specialised pallets supplier in Australia.
These pallets are perfect for heavy-duty use, but they do come with some drawbacks. They are much heavier than other types and can be expensive to buy.
Because of this, metal pallets are usually only used in specific industries where extra strength and durability are a must.
They are best suited for the automotive, chemical, and military sectors, where handling heavy or hazardous materials safely is a top priority.
A Cost-Effective Alternative Presswood Pallets
Presswood pallets are a lightweight and budget-friendly option for businesses that need simple, reliable pallets without the high cost. Made by compressing wood fibres, these pallets are easy to handle and take up less space because they can be nested together.
They’re also compliant with export regulations, making them ideal for international shipping. However, presswood pallets aren’t as durable as wooden or plastic ones and are better suited for short-term use.
These pallets are best for one-way shipping or businesses that want a low-cost solution for moving goods overseas.
The Sustainable Cardboard Pallets
Cardboard pallets are becoming a popular choice for businesses that care about the environment. Constructed from recyclable materials, they are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional pallets.
Many companies now look to a pallets supplier in Australia for cardboard pallets, especially when lightweight and sustainable options are needed.
These pallets are very light, which helps reduce shipping costs, especially for air freight. They’re also easy to recycle and dispose of responsibly. However, cardboard pallets can’t carry very heavy loads and are less durable than wooden or plastic ones.
They’re best suited for businesses focused on sustainability and lightweight shipping, such as in retail or industries that ship smaller, lighter goods.
How To Choose The Right Pallet for Your Business?
First, consider your industry requirements. For example, food and pharmaceutical businesses need clean, hygienic pallets like plastic ones, while heavy industries may need strong options like metal or wooden pallets.
Next, think about load capacity. If you’re moving heavy items, wooden or metal pallets are better. For lighter goods, presswood or cardboard pallets can get the job done without adding extra weight.
Also, look at storage and transport conditions. If your pallets will be stored in wet or humid places, plastic or metal pallets are more resistant to moisture. Cardboard and wooden pallets might not last as long in such conditions.
Lastly, if your business cares about being eco-friendly, sustainability goals matter. Cardboard and Presswood pallets are better for the environment, while plastic and metal options, though reusable, are less eco-friendly to produce.
To make the best choice, you need to work with a reliable pallets supplier in Australia who can guide you on what works best for your specific needs.
Final Words
Every business has different needs, so it’s worth taking the time to think about your products, industry, and shipping conditions before deciding which pallet type is best.
Working with a trusted pallets supplier in Australia can make this process easier. A reliable supplier will help you find high-quality pallets that suit your needs, making sure your goods are stored and transported safely and efficiently.