How to Buy Used Pallets in Chicago: Save Money and Help the Environment
What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used pallets in Chicago, how much you'll pay, and what to look for when buying. You'll save hundreds of dollars compared to new pallets while reducing waste.
Why Buy Used Pallets?
Used pallets cost 50-70% less than new ones. A new pallet costs $12-15, while a good used pallet costs $4-9. If you need 100 pallets, that's $800-900 in savings.
You also help the environment. Each reused pallet saves wood and keeps waste out of landfills. Many businesses choose used pallets as part of their sustainability goals.
What You'll Pay in Chicago
Here's what used pallets actually cost in Chicago:
The most common size is 48" x 40" (fits most forklifts and trucks). Smaller sizes like 40" x 40" cost about $4 each.
Example: A local restaurant chain bought 500 Grade A pallets for $6 each instead of $13 each for new ones. They saved $3,500.
Pallet Grades: What They Mean
Grade A (also called #1):
Grade B (also called #2):
Lower grades:
Where to Find Used Pallets in Chicago
Large suppliers: These companies have been in business for decades. They offer consistent quality and delivery services. Most have facilities throughout the Chicago area.
Local recyclers: Smaller, family-owned businesses often provide more personal service. They've built relationships with customers over 20-30 years.
Online marketplaces: RePackify lists used pallets with current pricing. You can compare options and order directly.
Standard Sizes and Uses
48" x 40" pallets (most popular):
42" x 42" pallets:
48" x 48" pallets:
How Many Pallets Fit in a Truck
A standard 53-foot truck holds:
This matters for delivery costs. Many suppliers offer free delivery for full truck loads but charge extra for smaller orders.
Delivery Options
Full truck delivery: Usually free if you order 400+ pallets. The truck comes to your location and unloads.
Partial loads: You pay extra, typically $100-300 depending on distance and quantity.
Pick up yourself: Drive to the supplier's location. Good for small orders or if you're nearby.
Drop trailer service: The supplier drops an empty trailer at your location. You load it over time, then they pick it up.
What to Check When Buying
Before ordering:
When pallets arrive:
Red flags:
Smart Buying Tips
Start small: Order 50-100 pallets first to test quality before buying more.
Plan ahead: Popular grades sell out quickly, especially during busy seasons.
Consider mixed orders: Some suppliers offer deals when you buy different sizes together.
Ask about recycling: Many suppliers will take back your broken pallets and give you credit.
Check your space: Make sure you have room to store the pallets and access for delivery trucks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ordering the wrong size: Measure your products and storage space first. A 48" x 40" pallet won't fit through a 47" door.
Focusing only on price: Very cheap pallets often break quickly, costing more in the long run.
Not planning for delivery: Some suppliers need 24-48 hours notice for delivery scheduling.
Forgetting about weight limits: Don't put 5,000 pounds on a pallet rated for 3,000 pounds.
Special Requirements
International shipping: You need heat-treated pallets with ISPM-15 certification. These cost slightly more but are required by law for exports.
Food products: Ask for pallets that haven't carried chemicals or other contaminating materials.
Retail display: Choose Grade A pallets if customers will see them. Grade B works fine for warehouses.
Sample Costs for Different Businesses
Small manufacturer (100 pallets per month):
Large distributor (1,000 pallets per month):
Getting Started
Calculate your needs: How many pallets do you use per month?
Choose your grade: Grade A for visible use, Grade B for storage
Find suppliers: Check RePackify for current pricing and availability
Start with a small order: Test quality before committing to large quantities
Plan your storage: Make sure you have space for delivery
The Bottom Line
Used pallets in Chicago offer real savings without sacrificing quality. Grade A used pallets perform nearly as well as new ones at half the cost. Grade B pallets work perfectly for most storage and shipping needs.
The key is finding reliable suppliers who inspect and grade their pallets honestly. Start small, test the quality, and build relationships with suppliers who meet your standards.
Most businesses save $3,000-10,000 per year by switching to used pallets. The money you save can go toward growing your business instead of buying new wood.
