Block Pallets
Four-way entry, superior strength, and global compatibility. The premium choice for demanding applications.
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What Are Block Pallets?
Block pallets (also called "four-way pallets") use blocks of solid wood or compressed wood between the top and bottom deck boards. Typically, a block pallet has 4, 6, 9, or 12 blocks that provide the structural support.
The key advantage is true four-way forklift entry — forklifts can access the pallet from any side, making them ideal for tight spaces, automated warehouses, and international shipping where handling equipment varies.
Block pallets are the global standard outside of North America. If you're shipping internationally or using automated storage systems, block pallets are often the required choice.
Quick Specs
Advantages
- ✓ True four-way forklift access
- ✓ Higher weight capacity
- ✓ Better for automated systems
- ✓ Global standard compatibility
- ✓ More durable and reusable
Considerations
- • Higher cost than stringer pallets
- • Heavier weight increases shipping costs
- • More complex to repair
- • Uses more lumber per unit
- • Overkill for simple applications
Block Pallets & Pooling Systems
CHEP (blue pallets) and PECO (red pallets) operate pallet-pooling programs where businesses rent standardized block pallets instead of owning them. Anaheim Eco Pallets offers an alternative: purchase recycled block pallets that are compatible with pooling infrastructure — without the recurring rental fees.
CHEP Compatible
Our standard 48×40 block pallets fit seamlessly into CHEP racking and handling systems. Same four-way entry, same footprint — no rental fees attached.
PECO Compatible
Built to the same dimensional tolerances as PECO pooling pallets, our blocks work with PECO-oriented conveyors, racks, and automated equipment.
Own Your Pallets
Stop renting. Buy recycled block pallets outright and eliminate ongoing pooling fees. Over multiple shipping cycles, ownership saves significantly.
Cost Comparison
Pooling rental: $6 – $10 per trip vs. Recycled block pallet: $8 – $18 one-time
After just 2–3 trips, owning your pallets is more cost-effective than renting from CHEP or PECO.
Built for Automation
Modern warehouses rely on automated material handling systems that demand precise, consistent pallet dimensions. Block pallets' uniform geometry and true four-way entry make them the preferred choice for automated facilities across Southern California and beyond.
AS/RS Systems
Automated Storage & Retrieval
Block pallets’ uniform dimensions and tight tolerances allow robotic arms and shuttle systems to pick, place, and store pallets without jamming or misalignment.
Conveyor Systems
Orientation-Independent Movement
True four-way entry means block pallets can travel in any direction on roller and chain conveyors without needing to be rotated first — reducing bottlenecks.
AGV Compatible
Automated Guided Vehicles
AGVs require a consistent pallet footprint to navigate, lift, and transport loads safely. Block pallets deliver the dimensional repeatability these robots need.
RFID Ready
Track Every Pallet
Solid wood blocks can be drilled to accept RFID tags, enabling real-time tracking, inventory management, and supply-chain visibility throughout your logistics network.
International Standards Compliance
Block pallets meet — or can be configured to meet — every major international pallet standard. Whether you're shipping across state lines or overseas, Anaheim Eco Pallets builds to spec.
European Standard
800 × 1200 mm
The dominant pallet across the EU. Our block pallets can be manufactured to EUR dimensions for seamless European supply-chain integration.
International Sizes
6 approved sizes
ISO 6780 defines the six standard pallet footprints recognized worldwide. Block pallets are the recommended construction type under this standard.
Phytosanitary Treatment
Heat-treated / stamped
Required for all wood packaging entering international trade. We heat-treat and stamp every export pallet to ISPM 15 specifications.
North American Standard
48 × 40 in
The Grocery Manufacturers Association standard is the most common pallet size in the U.S. Our block pallets are built to exact GMA dimensions.
Block Configurations
The number of blocks in a pallet determines its load capacity, rigidity, and weight. Here are the four most common configurations we build at our Anaheim facility.
4-Block
□ · □ · · · □ · □
Up to 2,000 lbs
Lightweight or single-use applications — display pallets, air freight, and low-weight retail distribution.
6-Block
□ □ □ · · · □ □ □
Up to 3,500 lbs
Standard medium-duty use — food & beverage cases, boxed goods, and general warehouse storage.
9-Block
□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □
Up to 5,500 lbs
Heavy-duty and the most common block configuration. Ideal for automated systems, export, and multi-trip logistics.
12-Block
□□ □□ □□ □□ □□ □□
Up to 6,600+ lbs
Maximum strength for industrial loads — heavy machinery components, steel, concrete products, and dense cargo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions we get from customers in Anaheim and across Southern California about block pallets.
Are block pallets worth the extra cost?
For most multi-trip, export, or automated-warehouse applications — yes. Block pallets last 5–10 reuse cycles compared to 3–5 for stringer pallets, and their four-way entry reduces handling time. When you factor in longevity and operational efficiency, the per-trip cost is often lower than cheaper stringer alternatives.
Can block pallets be repaired?
Absolutely. Individual deck boards and even blocks themselves can be replaced. However, block pallet repairs are more involved than stringer repairs because the blocks must be precisely aligned to maintain four-way entry and dimensional accuracy. Our Anaheim facility handles block pallet repair and refurbishment daily.
What's the difference between a CHEP pallet and a regular block pallet?
CHEP pallets are block pallets — they just happen to be painted blue and owned by the CHEP pooling company. Structurally, a CHEP pallet is a standard 48×40 nine-block pallet. Our recycled block pallets have the same dimensions and construction; the only difference is that you own yours outright instead of renting.
Are block pallets required for export?
Not universally, but they are strongly preferred. Many overseas receivers expect block pallets because they are the global standard. ISPM 15 heat treatment is required for all wood pallets crossing international borders, and we apply that treatment to every export pallet we build.
Can you make custom-size block pallets?
Yes. While 48×40 is our most common block pallet, we routinely build custom dimensions for aerospace, automotive, and industrial clients. Contact us with your load specs and we’ll design a block pallet to match — including block count, deck board spacing, and wood species.