What is the difference between a block and a stringer pallet?

A stringer pallet is supported by three long boards (stringers) and is often 2-way; a block pallet is supported by nine blocks and offers true 4-way entry. Block pallets are sturdier; stringer pallets are lighter and cheaper.

Is a block pallet stronger than a stringer pallet?

Generally yes, and it accepts forks from all four sides. The trade-off is cost — block pallets usually cost more to build.

Which pallet has 4-way entry?

Block pallets are true 4-way. Notched stringer pallets are partial 4-way: a forklift can enter all four sides, but a pallet jack still enters from only two.

Which type do you supply?

Our standard recycled 48x40 is typically a stringer pallet. We can source or build block and custom pallets too — tell us your handling and load needs.

Pallet guide

Block vs. stringer pallets

Almost every wooden pallet is one of two designs: stringer or block. The difference is what holds the top and bottom decks apart, and it changes how a forklift can enter, how much the pallet carries, and what it costs. Here is how they compare.

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Stringer pallets

A stringer pallet uses three parallel boards — the stringers — running between the top and bottom decks. It is the lighter, lower-cost design and the typical recycled 48x40. Plain stringers allow 2-way entry (forks from two sides only); notched stringers add partial 4-way access, letting a forklift in from all four sides while a pallet jack still enters from two.

Block pallets

A block pallet uses blocks — usually nine — instead of long stringers, tied together with perimeter and cross boards. Those blocks open up true 4-way entry from every side for both forklifts and pallet jacks. Block pallets are sturdier and more uniform, which suits automated handling and heavier or international loads, but they cost more than stringer pallets.

2-way vs. 4-way entry

Entry is the number of sides equipment can lift from. A 2-way pallet opens on two opposite sides; a 4-way pallet opens on all four, which is easier in tight aisles and lets you turn a load during loading. It matters most when you are planning how a trailer gets packed — our truck loader lets you set 2-way vs. 4-way and see how it changes the fit.

Which should you choose?

For general shipping where cost matters, a stringer 48x40 is usually the right call — it is the workhorse of North American freight. Choose block pallets when you need true 4-way handling, run automated equipment, or ship heavier, consistent, or export loads that benefit from the extra strength and uniformity. When in doubt, tell us the load and the equipment and we will point you to the right one.

Block vs. stringer at a glance

Feature	Stringer	Block
Support	Three stringers	Nine blocks
Forklift entry	2-way (notched = partial 4-way)	True 4-way
Strength	Good for general loads	Higher
Cost	Lower	Higher
Typical use	Recycled 48x40, general freight	Automation, export, heavy loads

Questions

What is the difference between a block and a stringer pallet?A stringer pallet is supported by three long boards (stringers) and is often 2-way; a block pallet is supported by nine blocks and offers true 4-way entry. Block pallets are sturdier; stringer pallets are lighter and cheaper.
Is a block pallet stronger than a stringer pallet?Generally yes, and it accepts forks from all four sides. The trade-off is cost — block pallets usually cost more to build.
Which pallet has 4-way entry?Block pallets are true 4-way. Notched stringer pallets are partial 4-way: a forklift can enter all four sides, but a pallet jack still enters from only two.
Which type do you supply?Our standard recycled 48x40 is typically a stringer pallet. We can source or build block and custom pallets too — tell us your handling and load needs.

Get in touch

Need pallets, or want to sell some?

Send the size, quantity, pickup or delivery location, timing, and photos if you are selling or requesting pickup.

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