Pallet field guide

How to Prepare Surplus Pallets

Sort, count, photograph, and stage pallets so a purchase or recycling request can be reviewed efficiently.

Answer first

Sort, count, photograph, and stage pallets so a purchase or recycling request can be reviewed efficiently. Use the sections below as a working checklist, then put the actual load and site details into the RFQ.

01

Confirm ownership

Confirm the business owns the pallets or has authority to transfer them. Pooled, rented, branded, or proprietary assets may need to be returned through their owner’s program.

02

Separate by material and footprint

Create separate groups for wood, plastic, and metal, then sort common footprints and constructions. Mixed piles take longer to evaluate and handle.

03

Count stable stacks

Count pallets in stable stacks and state the approximate number per stack. Do not create unsafe stacks just to simplify counting.

04

Document damage and contamination

Photograph the overall load, representative faces, markings, repairs, contamination, broken material, and the loading approach. Photos support review but do not replace inspection.

05

Describe dock and loading access

State whether a dock, forklift, pallet jack, or ground-level loading is available, along with gate, height, surface, and scheduling constraints.

Operational note

Specifications, regulations, safety rules, and customer requirements can change. Verify technical and regulatory decisions with the relevant authority or qualified professional.

Start with the details

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