Our History
From a small family business to a regional leader in pallet solutions - the First State Pallet Co. story.
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How It All Started
In 1998, Robert Johnson saw an opportunity. Local businesses needed pallets, but existing suppliers were either too big to care about small orders or too unreliable to count on.
With savings, a used pickup truck, and an inventory of 500 pallets, Robert started making deliveries. His promise was simple: quality pallets, fair prices, and service you could count on.
Word spread. One satisfied customer told another. Within two years, what started in a small yard had outgrown its first location. The foundation was laid for what First State Pallet Co. would become.
Our Journey
Every milestone tells a story of growth, adaptation, and commitment to our customers.
Humble Beginnings
First State Pallet Co. was founded by the Johnson family with a small yard and a big vision. Starting with just a pickup truck, 500 pallets, and a dedication to quality service, we began serving local businesses in the Wilmington area. Our first clients were small manufacturers and warehouses who valued personal service and fair dealing.
First Major Contract
Secured our first major contract with a regional grocery distributor, providing weekly pallet delivery and pickup services. This relationship proved the value of reliable service and would last for over two decades. It also demonstrated the importance of consistent quality and on-time delivery.
First Expansion
Growing demand led us to move to our first dedicated facility - a 5,000 square foot warehouse with a proper sorting yard. We added pallet repair services and expanded our delivery radius to cover all of Delaware. Hired our first five employees outside the family.
Second Generation Joins
Sarah Johnson, daughter of founder Robert Johnson, joined the family business after completing her business degree. Her fresh perspective and focus on operational efficiency would prove instrumental in the company's continued growth and modernization.
Regional Growth
Expanded service area into Pennsylvania and New Jersey, establishing ourselves as a true regional pallet supplier. Our reputation for quality and reliability preceded us, and word-of-mouth referrals drove rapid customer acquisition. Team grew to 15 dedicated employees.
Weathering the Storm
The financial crisis hit the logistics industry hard, but First State Pallet Co. weathered the storm by focusing on cost savings for our customers. We helped businesses reduce expenses through repair and recycling programs, emerging stronger and with deeper customer relationships.
Recycling Initiative
Launched our comprehensive recycling program, partnering with mulch producers and biomass energy companies to ensure zero landfill waste from pallet materials. This initiative diverted thousands of tons of wood from landfills annually and established us as an environmental leader in the industry.
Custom Manufacturing
Added custom pallet manufacturing capabilities to meet the specialized needs of our growing customer base. Invested in production equipment that allowed us to build pallets to exact specifications, opening new market opportunities in aerospace, machinery, and specialty logistics.
Modern Facility
Moved to our current state-of-the-art 50,000 square foot facility in New Castle's industrial district. The new location features automated sorting systems, dedicated repair stations, covered storage, and modern office space. Team expanded to 30 employees.
Quality Certification
Achieved ISO quality management certification, formalizing the quality control processes that had always been part of our culture. This certification opened doors with larger corporate clients who required certified suppliers.
20 Years Strong
Celebrated two decades of service with over 200 active clients across five states. Introduced ISPM-15 heat treatment services for international shipping compliance, becoming a certified treatment facility. This allowed us to serve export-focused manufacturers and international logistics companies.
Pandemic Response
When COVID-19 disrupted supply chains, we stepped up to support essential businesses. Food distributors, medical suppliers, and essential manufacturers relied on us to keep their operations running. We adapted quickly with safety protocols while maintaining service levels.
Transportation Fleet
Launched our own transportation division with a fleet of flatbed trucks and dedicated drivers. This vertical integration allowed us to offer more flexible, cost-effective delivery options and better control over the customer experience. Team reached 45 employees.
Technology Investment
Implemented new inventory management and customer portal systems, allowing real-time order tracking and improved communication. Upgraded production equipment for faster turnaround and higher quality output.
Looking Forward
With 25+ years of experience and a team of over 45 dedicated professionals, we continue to innovate and grow. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer service remains stronger than ever. We're exploring new technologies, expanding our capabilities, and preparing for the next chapter of growth.
By The Numbers
Key milestones that define our journey from startup to regional leader.
Values That Guided Us
The principles that have remained constant through 25 years of growth and change.
Family Values
As a family-owned business, we treat every customer like family. Personal relationships matter to us, and we take pride in knowing our customers by name.
Hard Work
Success in the pallet business requires rolling up your sleeves and getting the job done. We've never shied away from hard work, and it shows in our results.
Integrity
We do what we say we'll do. Fair dealing and honest communication have built trust with our customers over 25 years.
Continuous Improvement
We're always looking for ways to serve our customers better. From technology to processes to training, we invest in getting better every day.
Be Part of Our Story
Join the hundreds of businesses that trust First State Pallet Co. for their pallet needs. We're writing the next chapter of our story, and we'd love for you to be part of it.