Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about pallets, our services, pricing, delivery, and more.
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General Questions
6 questions
What types of pallets do you offer?
We offer a comprehensive range of pallets including new pallets (stringer and block styles), quality used pallets in various grades (A, B, C), custom-built pallets to your specifications, and ISPM-15 heat-treated pallets for international shipping. We also stock specialty pallets for specific industries like pharmaceutical, automotive, and food & beverage.
What sizes do you stock?
We maintain a large inventory of all common sizes including 48x40 (GMA), 48x48, 42x42, 48x45, 48x42, 40x40, 48x36, 36x36, and more. Our most popular size is the 48x40 GMA pallet, which accounts for about 30% of all pallets used in North America. We can also manufacture custom sizes to your exact specifications.
Do you deliver?
Yes, we operate our own fleet of trucks and provide delivery throughout Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia. Same-day delivery is available in many areas for orders placed before noon. We offer scheduled delivery routes for regular customers and can accommodate urgent requests when possible.
What are your business hours?
We are open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We are closed on Sundays and major holidays. Walk-ins are welcome during business hours, and we recommend calling ahead for large orders or specific product inquiries.
Where are you located?
Our facility is located at 901 Lambson Ln, New Castle, DE 19720. We are conveniently situated near major highways providing easy access to the entire Mid-Atlantic region. Our location allows us to efficiently serve customers throughout Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia.
How long have you been in business?
First State Pallet Co. has been serving the Mid-Atlantic region since 1998. With over 25 years of experience, we have built strong relationships with businesses of all sizes and have developed expertise in meeting the unique pallet needs of various industries.
Buying Pallets
7 questions
What is the difference between Grade A, B, and C pallets?
Grade A pallets are in premium condition with minimal wear, no broken boards, and a clean appearance. They are suitable for high-visibility applications and customer shipments. Grade B pallets are in good condition with some cosmetic wear, minor repairs, or slight discoloration, but are fully functional. Grade C pallets are functional but may show visible wear, have multiple repairs, or cosmetic damage. They are ideal for internal use or one-way shipping where appearance is not critical.
Do you offer volume discounts?
Yes, we offer competitive volume discounts for bulk orders. Pricing typically improves significantly at quantities of 100, 500, and 1000+ pallets. We also offer special pricing for ongoing contracts and regular customers. Contact us for a custom quote based on your specific quantity needs.
What is the minimum order quantity?
There is no minimum order. We proudly serve businesses of all sizes, from those needing just a few pallets to large operations requiring thousands per month. However, delivery minimums may apply for smaller orders depending on your location. Walk-in customers can purchase any quantity.
How quickly can I get pallets?
Common sizes like 48x40 GMA pallets are typically in stock for immediate pickup or same-day delivery. Custom orders typically take 3-5 business days depending on quantity and specifications. For urgent needs, we can often expedite orders - just let us know your timeline when placing your order.
Can I see samples before ordering?
Absolutely! We encourage customers to visit our facility to see our pallets firsthand. You can examine different grades, sizes, and construction types to ensure you are getting exactly what you need. We can also send photos of specific inventory if you cannot visit in person.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), and ACH transfers. Net-30 terms are available for qualified business accounts. We also offer flexible payment arrangements for large orders from established customers.
Do you offer pallet rental programs?
Yes, we offer pallet rental and pooling programs for customers with returnable pallet needs. This can be a cost-effective option for businesses with regular shipping patterns. Contact us to discuss a rental program tailored to your operations.
Selling Pallets
6 questions
Do you buy used pallets?
Yes, we actively buy pallets of all grades and conditions. Whether you have Grade A pallets in excellent condition or damaged pallets that need repair, we are interested. We buy standard sizes as well as non-standard sizes. Contact us for current pricing and to arrange pickup or drop-off.
Will you pick up pallets from my location?
Yes, we offer free pickup for larger quantities (typically 100+ pallets) within our primary service area. For smaller quantities, pickup fees may apply depending on your location. We can also arrange regular scheduled pickups for businesses that consistently have pallets available.
How do I get paid?
We offer quick payment - typically same-day or next-day payment after pickup and inspection. For established accounts, we can arrange weekly or bi-weekly payment schedules. Payment methods include check, ACH transfer, or cash for immediate transactions.
What condition do pallets need to be in?
We buy pallets in virtually any condition. Premium pallets obviously command higher prices, but we also buy pallets that need repair, have broken boards, or are suitable only for recycling. The only pallets we cannot accept are those that are contaminated with hazardous materials.
How are pallet prices determined?
Prices depend on several factors: size (standard sizes like 48x40 are most valuable), condition (Grade A commands the highest price), quantity (larger quantities often receive better per-pallet rates), and current market conditions. We strive to offer competitive, fair pricing.
Can I drop off pallets at your facility?
Yes, you can drop off pallets at our New Castle facility during business hours. This is a great option for smaller quantities or if you prefer to handle transportation yourself. No appointment is necessary for drop-offs, but calling ahead is appreciated for larger loads.
Pallet Repair Services
6 questions
What does pallet repair include?
Our comprehensive repair service includes: replacing broken, cracked, or missing deck boards; securing or replacing loose or protruding nails; replacing damaged or broken stringers; reinforcing weakened structural elements; cleaning and removing debris; and ensuring the pallet meets your specified quality standards.
How much does pallet repair cost?
Repair costs vary based on the extent of damage and the number of pallets. Minor repairs (single board replacement, nail securing) are very economical. More extensive repairs cost more but are typically 40-60% less than buying new pallets. We provide detailed quotes before beginning any work.
Is it worth repairing pallets vs. buying new?
In most cases, yes! Repairing pallets typically costs 40-60% less than purchasing new ones. It is also more environmentally friendly. However, severely damaged pallets may be more cost-effective to recycle. We will honestly advise you on the best option for each pallet.
Can you repair pallets to a specific standard?
Yes, we can repair pallets to match your required specifications, whether that is restoring them to Grade A condition, meeting specific industry standards (like food-grade requirements), or matching your internal quality standards. Just let us know your requirements.
Do you offer on-site repair services?
Yes, for high-volume customers, we can arrange on-site pallet repair at your facility. This minimizes transportation costs and keeps your pallets available for use. Contact us to discuss whether on-site repair makes sense for your operation.
What is your turnaround time for repairs?
Standard turnaround is 3-5 business days for most repair orders. Rush service is available for urgent needs. For regular customers with ongoing repair needs, we can establish dedicated production schedules to ensure consistent turnaround.
Heat Treatment & ISPM-15
6 questions
What is ISPM-15 heat treatment?
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is an international regulation requiring wood packaging materials to be heat-treated to kill pests and pathogens. The treatment involves heating the wood to a core temperature of 56°C (132.8°F) for a minimum of 30 minutes. This prevents the spread of invasive species through international trade.
Do I need heat-treated pallets?
Heat-treated pallets are required for any wood packaging materials being shipped internationally. If your pallets will cross national borders (except between the US and Canada for most products), they must be ISPM-15 compliant. Domestically shipped pallets do not require heat treatment unless specified by your customer.
Are you a certified ISPM-15 facility?
Yes, we are a certified ISPM-15 treatment facility. Our heat treatment process is inspected and approved, and we apply the official IPPC stamp to all treated pallets. We maintain detailed records of all treatments as required by the regulation.
What does the ISPM-15 stamp look like?
The official ISPM-15 stamp includes: the IPPC logo (a plant protection symbol), a two-letter country code (US), a unique producer/treatment provider number, the treatment code (HT for heat treatment or MB for methyl bromide), and other identifying information. This stamp must be legible and permanent.
How long does heat treatment take?
The actual treatment process takes several hours, but turnaround time for customers is typically 24-48 hours. For rush orders or large quantities, please contact us to discuss scheduling. We can often accommodate urgent needs with advance notice.
Does heat treatment affect pallet strength?
When properly performed, heat treatment does not significantly affect pallet strength. The controlled heating process removes moisture which can actually improve some properties. However, the treatment must be done correctly - improper treatment could damage the wood.
Custom Pallets
5 questions
Can you build custom pallets?
Yes, we can manufacture pallets to virtually any specification. Custom pallets are ideal for unique products, specific machinery, unusual load requirements, or when standard sizes do not work for your application. We can modify dimensions, board configurations, load capacities, and construction style.
What information do you need for a custom pallet quote?
To provide an accurate quote, we need: desired dimensions (length x width x height), expected load weight, stringer or block construction preference, number of deck boards and spacing requirements, entry type (2-way or 4-way), wood type preference, whether heat treatment is needed, quantity required, and any special requirements.
What is the minimum order for custom pallets?
There is no strict minimum for custom pallets, but smaller quantities will have higher per-pallet costs due to setup time. Typically, orders of 50+ pallets achieve the best economy of scale. We are happy to quote any quantity and help you find the most cost-effective solution.
How long does it take to produce custom pallets?
Lead time depends on the complexity of the design and quantity ordered. Typical lead times range from 5-10 business days for moderate quantities. Rush production is available for urgent needs. We recommend placing orders 2-3 weeks ahead when possible.
Can you match an existing pallet design?
Yes, we can reverse-engineer and reproduce existing pallet designs. Just bring us a sample or provide detailed measurements and photos. This is particularly useful when replacing pallets in an existing system or when original suppliers are no longer available.
Recycling & Sustainability
5 questions
Do you recycle pallets?
Yes, we have a comprehensive recycling program. Pallets that are beyond economic repair are processed into useful products rather than going to landfills. Wood is recycled into mulch, biomass fuel, animal bedding, or other wood products. We strive for zero landfill waste from pallet materials.
Can I get a certificate of recycling?
Yes, we provide certificates of recycling or destruction upon request. These documents are useful for businesses tracking their sustainability metrics, meeting corporate environmental goals, or complying with customer requirements for responsible disposal.
What happens to recycled pallet wood?
Recycled pallet wood has many second lives: it becomes colored mulch for landscaping, biomass fuel for energy generation, animal bedding for farms, raw material for particleboard manufacturing, or wood chips for various industrial applications. We partner with end-users who give this wood new purpose.
Are your practices environmentally friendly?
Sustainability is core to our business model. We extend pallet life through repair, recycle materials that cannot be repaired, and ensure responsible sourcing of new materials. The pallet industry is inherently circular - wood is renewable, pallets are reusable, and materials are recyclable.
Do you offer pallet take-back programs?
Yes, we can establish take-back programs where we collect pallets after they have been used for their intended purpose. This is particularly valuable for businesses with one-way shipping needs who want to ensure responsible handling of their pallets after delivery.
Transportation & Delivery
5 questions
What areas do you deliver to?
Our primary delivery area includes Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia. We can arrange delivery to other areas for larger orders. Delivery times and costs vary by location - contact us for specific information about your area.
What are your delivery options?
We offer several delivery options: standard delivery (scheduled based on our routes), expedited delivery (priority scheduling), same-day delivery (for urgent needs, where available), and scheduled recurring delivery (for regular customers). Flatbed and enclosed trailers are available.
Is there a delivery fee?
Delivery fees depend on your location and order size. Many orders qualify for free delivery. For smaller orders or locations outside our standard routes, delivery fees may apply. We always provide delivery costs upfront before you commit to an order.
Can I pick up my order?
Yes, customer pickup is always an option and eliminates delivery fees. Our facility is equipped for easy loading - we can load your trailer or truck with our forklifts. Just let us know when you are coming so we can have your order ready.
Do you provide tracking for deliveries?
Yes, we can provide estimated delivery windows and updates. For time-sensitive deliveries, we will coordinate directly with you to ensure pallets arrive when needed. Our drivers can call ahead when approaching your location.
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