Grade B Pallets
Solid, reliable pallets that have been moderately used
Characteristics
Grade B pallets are solid, reliable pallets that have been moderately used. They show visible signs of wear but maintain good structural integrity. These pallets may have undergone repairs but remain fully functional for a wide range of industrial applications.
Key Identifiers:
- Moderate wear visible on the surface
- May have minor repairs to boards or blocks
- All components remain functional
- Some discoloration is common
- May have minor chips or cracks that don't affect structural integrity
- Fasteners may show signs of wear but remain secure
- Dimensions may vary slightly but remain within acceptable tolerances
Common Uses
- General warehousing
- Distribution centers
- Non-food retail operations
- Manufacturing facilities
- Domestic shipping
- Building materials storage
Industry Standards & Specifications
Grade B pallets must meet specific industry standards that balance cost-effectiveness with reliable performance. While they show more wear than Grade A pallets, they must maintain sufficient structural integrity for industrial use.
Acceptable Conditions:
- Up to 20% surface wear
- Minor repairs to non-critical components
- Some discoloration without contamination
- Minor splits that don't compromise strength
- Slight dimensional variations (within 1/2 inch)
Performance Requirements:
- 80-90% of original load capacity
- Suitable for standard handling equipment
- Able to withstand normal warehouse operations
- Stackable with proper load distribution
- Suitable for medium-term storage
Repair and Maintenance
Grade B pallets often have undergone repairs to extend their useful life. Common repairs include:
- Replacement of damaged deck boards
- Reinforcement of weakened stringers
- Addition of companion stringers for added support
- Securing loose fasteners
- Removal of protruding nails
- Patching of minor cracks or splits
With proper maintenance, Grade B pallets can continue to provide reliable service for multiple cycles:
- Regular inspection for new damage
- Prompt repair of minor issues before they worsen
- Proper handling to prevent additional wear
- Storage in appropriate conditions to prevent weather damage
Economic Considerations
Grade B pallets offer significant economic advantages for many business operations:
- Typically 40-50% less expensive than new pallets
- Good balance of cost and performance
- Suitable for most industrial applications
- Environmentally responsible choice (reduces waste)
- Lower capital investment for large-scale operations
- Acceptable for most business-to-business transactions