Save Money and Help the Environment: Your Guide to Used Plastic Pallets in Fairbanks
What you'll gain from reading this: You'll discover where to buy quality used plastic pallets in Fairbanks, how much you can save, and what to look for when making your purchase.
Why Choose Used Plastic Pallets?
Used plastic pallets offer three main benefits:
- Save money - Cost 30-50% less than new pallets
- Help the environment - Keep plastic out of landfills
- Get proven durability - These pallets have already proven they can handle real work
For example, if new pallets cost $45 each, used ones might cost $25-30. For a business needing 100 pallets, that's $1,500-2,000 in savings.
Where to Buy in Fairbanks
RePackify (Serves All of Alaska)
- What they offer: Standard 48" × 40" pallets and custom sizes
- Materials: HDPE, HDPP, and composite plastics
- Delivery: Ships across Alaska, including Fairbanks
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 6 am-4 pm Alaska Time
- How to order: Check their online price index or request a custom quote
What to Look For
Standard Specifications
- Size: 48" × 40" (most common)
- Entry: Four-way entry works with any forklift
- Deck thickness: About 5/8 inch for strength
- Weight capacity: Varies from light export to heavy-duty racking
Common Materials
- HDPE: High-density polyethylene - very durable
- HDPP: High-density polypropylene - lighter weight
- PVC: Polyvinyl chloride - chemical resistant
- Composite: Mixed materials for specific needs
Pallet Grades
Most suppliers use a simple grading system:
- Grade A: Like new condition, no repairs needed
- Grade B: Minor wear, small chips or scratches
- Grade C: More wear but still functional
How to Order
Step 1: Figure Out Your Needs
Ask yourself:
- How many pallets do I need?
- What size works best for my products?
- Will they be stored on racks or just on the floor?
- Do I need chemical resistance?
Step 2: Get Quotes
- Visit supplier websites to see current prices
- Call for custom quotes on large orders
- Compare prices between suppliers
Step 3: Choose Delivery
- Small orders: Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping
- Large orders: Full truckload delivery (often free for 500+ pallets)
- Local pickup: Sometimes available by appointment
Step 4: Payment and Terms
- Most suppliers offer NET 15, 30, or 60-day payment terms
- Some offer buy-back programs for your old pallets
- Ask about pallet pooling for ongoing needs
Real-World Example
A Fairbanks warehouse manager needed 200 pallets for a new storage area. Here's what happened:
- New pallets would cost $9,000
- Used Grade A pallets cost $6,000
- Savings: $3,000
- Environmental benefit: Kept 200 pallets out of landfills
Getting Started
For immediate needs:
- Request quotes from local recyclers
- Schedule site visits during business hours
For planning ahead:
- Build relationships with multiple suppliers
- Consider buy-back programs for your old pallets
- Track your usage to predict future needs
Remember: The best deal combines good price, reliable delivery, and pallets that match your specific needs. Don't just buy the cheapest option if it won't work for your operation.