Block vs Stringer Pallets Which Construction Is Right for Your Operation?
Florida Pallet Supply • Updated 2026-03-30
When sourcing pallets for your warehouse, distribution center, or manufacturing operation, one of the most fundamental decisions you will face is choosing between block pallets and stringer pallets. These two construction types differ significantly in structure, strength, handling flexibility, and cost - and the wrong choice can lead to equipment incompatibilities, damaged loads, or unnecessary expense.
This guide explains exactly how each pallet type is built, where each excels, and how to determine which construction is the best fit for your specific operation.
New GMA stringer pallets - the most common type in North America
What Is a Stringer Pallet?
Stringer pallets are the most common pallet type in North America, accounting for roughly 80% of all pallets in circulation. They are built with three parallel boards (called stringers) running the length of the pallet, with deck boards nailed perpendicular across the top. The stringers provide the structural support, and fork tines slide between them from two sides - which is why stringer pallets are often called two-way pallets. A notched stringer pallet cuts rectangular openings into the stringers, allowing partial four-way entry for pallet jacks, though true four-way fork access from all sides is limited.
What Is a Block Pallet?
Block pallets (also called four-way pallets) use nine wooden or composite blocks arranged in a 3x3 grid between the top and bottom deck boards. This construction creates full four-way entry - forklifts and pallet jacks can enter from all four sides without restriction. Block pallets are significantly more durable than stringer pallets, and they are the standard in Europe (Euro pallet / EUR 1200x800mm), in many automated warehouse systems, and in industries like food and beverage where full access and hygiene are critical. The trade-off is cost: block pallets typically run 15-30% more than comparable stringer pallets.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature
Stringer Pallet
Block Pallet
Fork Entry
2-way (notched = partial 4-way)
True 4-way
Durability
Good
Excellent
Cost
Lower ($9-16 new)
Higher ($14-22 new)
Weight
30-48 lbs
55-75 lbs
Best For
General warehousing, retail, domestic
Automated systems, food/bev, export
Market Share (US)
~80%
~20%
When to Choose Stringer Pallets
Stringer pallets are the right choice for the majority of domestic warehousing, retail distribution, and general manufacturing operations. If your facility uses standard forklifts with fixed fork spacing, handles moderate load weights (under 2,500 lbs), and does not operate automated conveyor or racking systems requiring full four-way entry, stringer pallets offer the best value. They are also the standard choice for one-way shipping where the pallet cost needs to be minimized.
When to Choose Block Pallets
Block pallets are the right choice when your operation uses automated conveyor systems, high-density racking that requires four-way pallet jack access, or when handling very heavy loads above 2,500 lbs. Food and beverage operations often prefer block pallets for hygiene reasons (no exposed stringer edges to splinter) and for compatibility with automated guided vehicles (AGVs). Any operation exporting to Europe or using European supply chain partners will need to understand the EUR/EPAL pallet standard, which is a block design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, standard pallet jacks work with stringer pallets from the two open ends. Notched stringer pallets allow pallet jack entry from all four sides, though the notch reduces some structural strength.
For operations with automated systems, very heavy loads, or tight warehouse aisles requiring four-way entry, yes. For standard domestic distribution, the extra cost typically isn't justified unless durability and reuse cycles are critical.
The GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) pallet specification is a stringer pallet: 48x40 inches, three-stringer construction, notched for partial four-way entry. It is the most common pallet in US food and grocery distribution.
Yes. A broken stringer can be sistered (a second board nailed alongside it) and broken deck boards replaced. Block pallets are harder to repair field because block replacement requires more precise carpentry.
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