Robin Kiefer 
October 17, 2018 
Pallet Stringers
Stringer Pallets are one of the original models of wooden pallets. A stringer pallet is a pallet with a unique design that adds boards, known as the stringers, to create a more stable base for heavy unit loads. When looking at a plastic pallet stringer, the stringers can be identified on each side of the pallet, as well as, down the middle of the pallet. However, pallet stringers no longer have to be built in or permanently attached to a pallet. Detachable plastic pallet stringers make it possible to customize basic pallets to make them as versatile as possible. Most commonly pallet stringers are able to be picked up by either a forklift or pallet jack forks, through a two way entry. Stringer pallets or pallet stringers can be made from wood or plastic, and be notched to create partial four way entries if needed.
Stringer Pallets vs. Block Pallets
The original model of a stringer pallet differs from that of a traditional block pallet. A stringer pallet is only accessible to be picked up from a two way entry unless specifically notched to have a partial four way entry. A block pallet is almost always accessible from a four way entry. This is because block pallets have hand jack openings. Along with the openings, a block pallet has about 4-12 blocks supporting a unit load, these are located between the top of the pallet and the bottom deck boards. Block pallets can also be made from wood or plastic. A stringer pallet allows a full coverage base where a block pallet has three different base options. A block pallets base can be perimeter based, uni-directional based, or have an overlapping base.The Design of a Stringer Pallet
A stringer pallet, is a pallet that has boards known as the stringers, on each side, and down the middle of a pallet, sandwiched between the top and bottom boards. The stringers run lengthwise on the pallets and grant the pallets more support for the unit load. This design allows a two way entry and ability for the pallet’s deckboards to be chambered for a pallet jackets wheels to enter.
Modern Plastic Pallets & Pallet Stringers
Some of our plastic pallets have detachable pallet stringers that snap on and off to create a more versatile pallet. Allowing our stringers to snap on and off of our pallets, allows a pallet to be stackable or rackable depending on how they’re applied. A great example of a rackable/stackable plastic stringer pallet is our 45 x 48 Heavy Duty Solid-Deck Rackable Plastic Pallet (# PP-S-4548-RC).
Which is better?
When deciding what type of pallet to invest in, both block and stringer pallets are good options. Each, whether plastic or wood, can be modified, notched, and configured in the molding process to create the perfect pallet for its intended use or easy mobility. Block pallets typically cost more than stringer pallets due to production and material costs.3 Questions to ask when selecting the perfect pallet!
- How will the pallets be stored?
- How will the pallets be handled and transported?
- What is the cost?
Want to learn about Pallet Top Decks?
There’s more to a pallet than a stringer – go here check out our article on Pallet Top Decks.Share your Comments!
What is your preferred pallet type, stringers or block? What benefits or advantages do you feel they hold for you? Do you like the concept of a detachable plastic pallet stringer? We’d love to hear from you – please share thoughts in the comments below.Need Help Selecting A Pallet?
Our Plastic Pallet Experts are happy to help you find the right plastic pallet and send you a quote that includes shipping costs. Please contact us to find the perfect pallet at the best price.
About Robin Kiefer
Robin Spencer Kiefer connects customers with solutions and products. Robin is the Digital Marketing Manager of One Way Solutions.
Hello,
This may be relatively basic for pallets, but I have a question about bottom deckboards. At my production facility we are getting a container with a custom bottom made. The bottom looks similar to a pallet as we will be moving the container using forklifts. The bottom consists of 3 stringers attached directly to the bottom of the container and it has 2 bottom deckboards on either ends of the stringers. The bottom deckboards run perpendicular to the stringers. I am concerned over whether the two bottom deckboards add enough stability to moving the container with a forklift. Our forklift “Forks” would just barely reach the second deckboard when slid all the way underneath the container. Do you have any recommendation on how many deckboards I should have on this container to ensure stability?
Thank you,
-John Davies