The stringer pallet is the workhorse of North American supply chains. Florida Pallet Supply explains the difference between 2-way and 4-way notched stringer pallets, load ratings, and which is right for your operation.
The stringer pallet is the most common wooden pallet design in North America. Its three-board stringer construction provides a reliable, cost-effective platform for the vast majority of warehouse and distribution applications.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard Dimensions | 48" x 40" (GMA standard) |
| Stringers | 3 (two outer, one center) |
| 2-Way Entry | Forks enter from 40" ends only |
| 4-Way Notched Entry | Notches cut in outer stringers allow side entry |
| Static Load Capacity | 5,500 lbs (new) |
| Dynamic Load Capacity | 2,200 lbs |
| Pallet Weight | 40-48 lbs |
| Wood Species | Southern Yellow Pine, Mixed Hardwood |
| Heat Treated Option | Available (ISPM-15 compliant) |
Florida Pallet Supply stocks new and recycled stringer pallets in 48x40 and other sizes, delivered across FL, GA, NJ, MD, and DE.
Get a QuoteThe stringer pallet gets its name from the three long boards - called stringers - that run the length of the pallet and support the deck boards above. The outer two stringers support the deck boards at the edges; the center stringer provides mid-span support that prevents deck board flexing under heavy loads. Deck boards are nailed perpendicular to the stringers across both the top and bottom of the pallet.
The standard GMA 48x40 pallet is a notched stringer pallet - its outer stringers are cut with rectangular notches that allow pallet jack wheels to enter from the sides. This is what makes the standard GMA a "4-way" pallet, though technically it provides only partial side entry rather than the full 4-way access of a block pallet. Florida Pallet Supply maintains deep inventory of stringer pallets in new and recycled grades. The NWPCA provides construction standards for stringer pallets applicable to all grades. For export applications, see our ISPM-15 guide.
The standard 48x40 notched stringer pallet is the backbone of North American grocery distribution. Every major grocery chain, regional distributor, and food manufacturer in Florida uses this pallet type for inbound and outbound freight. Florida Pallet Supply is a primary stringer pallet supplier to grocery distribution operations across FL, GA, NJ, MD, and DE, with new and recycled Grade A inventory available for immediate delivery.
Get Grocery Pallets →The vast majority of general warehousing and distribution operations in North America run on stringer pallets. Their compatibility with standard racking systems, forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyors makes them the default choice for any operation that has not specified an alternative. Florida Pallet Supply keeps large standing inventory of new and recycled stringer pallets for rapid fulfillment of general warehouse accounts.
View Pallet Types →Retailers and their suppliers across FL, GA, NJ, MD, and DE run their inbound supply chains on 48x40 notched stringer pallets. Vendor compliance requirements at major retailers specify the notched stringer GMA pallet as the required inbound pallet type. Florida Pallet Supply helps suppliers to major retailers meet their vendor pallet compliance requirements with consistent new and Grade A recycled stringer pallet supply.
Request Quote →A 2-way stringer pallet allows forklift tines to enter only from the two 40-inch ends (the short ends). The outer stringers run continuous from end to end, blocking side entry. A 4-way notched stringer pallet has rectangular notches cut into the outer stringers at the midpoint of each long side, allowing pallet jack wheels to enter from the sides as well. The notches reduce the stringer's cross-section, which slightly reduces load capacity but provides much more handling flexibility. Most GMA pallets are 4-way notched. See our full 2-way vs 4-way comparison.
The standard GMA 48x40 stringer pallet has 7 top deck boards and 5 bottom deck boards. The 7-board top deck provides good load distribution while leaving controlled gaps for ventilation and drainage. The 5-board bottom deck provides stable ground contact and allows for easy forklift entry from the ends. Some specialty stringer pallets use different board counts based on load requirements and industry specifications.
Yes. Stringer pallets are highly repairable - broken or cracked deck boards can be replaced, split stringers can be repaired with companion boards, and damaged notches can be reinforced. This repairability is one of the key advantages of the wooden stringer pallet over plastic alternatives. Florida Pallet Supply grades all recycled stringer pallets before sale, and Grade A recycled pallets have been inspected and repaired as needed to meet full functional specs.
Stringer pallets most commonly fail due to broken deck boards from forklift impact, split stringers from rough handling or overloading, and structural degradation from excessive moisture exposure. Proper handling - keeping forks centered, not dropping loads, avoiding prolonged outdoor storage - extends pallet life significantly. For environments where durability is critical, consider upgrading to block pallets which offer superior structural integrity.
Grade A recycled stringer pallets can be used for indirect food contact applications (products in sealed cases or containers) with appropriate risk assessment. For direct food contact or highly regulated pharmaceutical applications, new stringer pallets from known-clean wood sources are preferred. Florida Pallet Supply can advise on the right pallet grade for your specific food safety and quality requirements. See our new vs recycled guide for more on this topic.
Fast delivery across Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware. New, recycled, and custom options available.
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