Buy Used Pallets in Charlotte

How to Buy Used Pallets in Charlotte

Why this matters: You can save up to 80% on shipping costs by buying used pallets in Charlotte instead of new ones. This guide shows you exactly how to find quality pallets at the best prices.

What You'll Pay in Charlotte

Good news: Charlotte has some of the best pallet prices in North Carolina. Here's what you can expect:

Used pallets: $1.00 to $1.67 each State average: $4.75 each
National average: $5 to $15 each

This means you're getting excellent value. According to RePackify's price tracking, Charlotte prices are currently 80% below previous market peaks.

Two Types of Used Pallets (And Why It Matters)

Grade A Pallets ($7-8 each)

These look almost new. All broken boards have been replaced. They have:

• 7 boards on top
• 5 boards on bottom
• 3 support beams
• Clean appearance

Best for: Companies that ship to customers or need pallets that look professional.

Grade B Pallets ($1-2 each)

These show wear but still work fine. Some boards may be repaired or reinforced.

Best for: Internal warehouse use, one-time shipping, or when appearance doesn't matter.

Where to Find Pallets in Charlotte

Charlotte sits right where two major highways cross (I-77 and I-85), making it a shipping hub. This means lots of pallets flow through the city.

Best areas to look:

• Near Charlotte Douglas Airport
• Industrial areas in Mecklenburg County
• Neighborhoods like Sugar Creek and Plaza Shamrock
• Distribution centers along major highways

Most suppliers will deliver within 200 miles of Charlotte. Many offer same-day or next-day delivery if you're local.

What Size to Buy

Almost everyone uses GMA 48" × 40" pallets. This is the standard size that works with:

• Forklifts
• Truck trailers
• Warehouse racks
• Shipping systems

Unless you have a special need, stick with this size. It's easier to find, cheaper to buy, and works everywhere.

How to Buy Smart

Start Small

Buy 10-20 pallets first to test quality before placing large orders.

Ask These Questions

• What grade are these pallets?
• How many shipping cycles have they been through?
• Do you offer volume discounts?
• What's your delivery cost?
• Can I see them before buying?

Get Volume Discounts

Most suppliers offer better prices for larger orders:

• 100+ pallets: 10-15% discount
• 500+ pallets: 20-25% discount
• 1,000+ pallets: 30%+ discount

Additional Services You Can Get

Pallet Pickup

Many companies will buy back your used pallets. This helps offset costs and keeps pallets out of landfills.

Custom Sizes

If you need different dimensions, local shops can build custom pallets. Expect to pay $15-25 each for custom work.

Regular Delivery

Set up weekly or monthly deliveries if you use pallets consistently. This often gets you better pricing.

Common Uses in Charlotte

Charlotte's economy creates steady pallet demand from:

• Manufacturing: Companies making products for shipping
• Distribution: Warehouses moving goods through the region
• Retail: Stores receiving merchandise
• Construction: Moving materials around job sites

Money-Saving Tips

Buy during slow seasons (January-March) when demand is lower

Pick up yourself to avoid delivery fees

Join with other businesses to meet volume minimums

Consider mixed grades if some pallets are for internal use only

Negotiate payment terms for large orders

What to Avoid

• Pallets with chemical stains or odors
• Broken stringers (the support beams underneath)
• Pallets marked "MB" (these were treated with toxic chemicals)
• Prices that seem too good to be true

Getting Started

Determine your needs: How many pallets per month? What grade?

Contact 3-4 suppliers for quotes

Visit facilities to see quality firsthand

Start with a small test order

Build relationships with reliable suppliers

Charlotte's location and competitive market make it an excellent place to source used pallets. With the right approach, you can secure quality pallets at prices that significantly improve your bottom line.

The key is starting simple, asking the right questions, and building relationships with suppliers who understand your business needs.