Buy Used Pallets in Lake Forest

How to Buy Used Pallets in Lake Forest, CA (And Save Money Doing It)

What you'll get from this guide: Save 60-70% on shipping materials, find reliable local suppliers, and avoid common buying mistakes that cost businesses hundreds of dollars.

Why Buy Used Pallets?

Used pallets cost $4-9 each versus $12+ for new ones. That's real savings when you need dozens or hundreds for your business. Plus, you're helping the environment by reusing materials.

The Three Types You'll Find

Think of pallet grades like used car conditions:

Grade A (#1) - The "Like New" Option

• Clean, sturdy, ready to use
• Perfect if customers will see them
• Cost: Around $9.50 each
• Example: A retail store displaying products

Grade B (#2) - The "Good Enough" Choice

• Some wear but still functional
• Great for storage or internal use
• Cost: Around $7.50 each
• Example: Warehouse storage where appearance doesn't matter

Recycled - The Budget Option

• Previously damaged but repaired
• Cheapest option available
• Cost: Around $4-5 each
• Example: One-time shipping where you won't get them back

Standard Sizes (Keep It Simple)

Most pallets are 48" x 40" (4 feet by 3.3 feet). This size fits standard truck space and warehouse equipment. Unless you have special needs, stick with this size.

Two entry types:

• 4-way: Forklifts can pick them up from any side ($7 each)
• 2-way: Forklifts can only enter from two sides ($5 each)

Choose 4-way if you want flexibility. Choose 2-way if you want to save money and don't mind the limitation.

Where to Find Them in Lake Forest

Local pallet suppliers - Search "pallet suppliers Lake Forest" online. Most will deliver for a fee (usually $35).

Agricultural suppliers - If you need pallets for farming or outdoor storage, look for suppliers that specialize in weather-resistant options.

RePackify marketplace - Check their listings for 48x40 used pallets in the 92630 zip code area.

What You'll Actually Pay

Based on current Lake Forest area pricing:

• Grade A: $9.50 each
• Grade B: $7.50 each
• Standard 48x40 4-way: $7 each
• Standard 48x40 2-way: $5 each
• Damaged/broken: $4 each
• Delivery fee: $35 (typical)

Money-saving tip: Buy in bulk. Most suppliers offer better rates for orders of 50+ pallets.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

"What condition are these pallets in?" (Get specifics, not just "good")

"How much for delivery to my location?"

"Do you have quantity discounts?"

"Can I see them before buying?" (Especially for large orders)

"Do you offer pickup service for my old pallets?"

Red Flags to Avoid

• Suppliers who won't let you inspect pallets first
• Prices that seem too good to be true (broken pallets sold as Grade A)
• No clear return policy for damaged goods
• Pressure to buy immediately without time to compare options

Getting Rid of Old Pallets

Don't throw them away. Many services offer free pickup:

• Pallet recycling companies often pick up for free
• Some suppliers will take them in trade toward new purchases
• Junk removal services handle them (but may charge a fee)

Special Situations

For international shipping: Ask for heat-treated pallets that meet ISPM-15 standards. These prevent pest problems at customs.

For food or pharmaceutical use: Make sure pallets haven't been used for chemicals or other contaminating materials.

For one-time use: Grade B or recycled pallets work fine and save money.

Bottom Line

Start simple: decide what grade you need, stick with standard 48x40 size, and compare prices from 2-3 local suppliers. Most businesses find Grade B pallets offer the best value for regular use.

Remember: the cheapest pallet that breaks during shipping will cost you much more than spending $2 extra for better quality up front.