Save Money on Used Plastic Pallets in Arizona: Complete Buyer's Guide
What you'll learn: How to find quality used plastic pallets in Arizona for 50-70% less than new ones, which suppliers offer the best deals, and how to avoid common buying mistakes.
Why Buy Used Plastic Pallets?
You get these benefits immediately:
- Save $15-30 per pallet compared to new ones
- Get pallets that last 10+ years with proper care
- Easy to clean and sanitize
- Won't absorb moisture or harbor bacteria
- Lighter weight means lower shipping costs
Where to Buy Used Plastic Pallets in Arizona
RePackify
- Locations: Phoenix and Tucson
- Grades available: A, B, and C condition
- Deal: Free delivery on orders of 50+ pallets
- Average price: $7.28 per used pallet in Avondale area
Common Pallet Sizes and Types
Standard Sizes
- 48″ × 40″ (most common - fits standard truck)
- 42″ × 42″ (square format)
- 48″ × 48″ (larger square)
- 36″ × 36″ (smaller operations)
Entry Types
- 2-way entry: Forklift enters from 2 sides only
- 4-way entry: Forklift enters from all 4 sides (more versatile)
Construction Types
- Block pallets: Heavy-duty, 4-way entry
- Stringer pallets: Budget option, 2-way or 4-way
- Nestable pallets: Stack inside each other when empty
- Rackable pallets: Strong enough for warehouse racks
- Euro pallets: 1200 × 800 mm (international standard)
Pricing Guide
By Condition
- Good condition used pallets: $5-15 each
- Grade A (no repairs needed): $7-10 average
- Grade B (minor damage): $4-8 average
Bulk Pricing
- 50 pallets: Entry-level discount plus free delivery
- 100-500 pallets: Better per-unit pricing
- 1,000+ pallets: Best deals available
Example: If you need 100 pallets monthly, buying Grade A used pallets at $8 each saves you $2,000 compared to new pallets at $28 each.
How to Buy Smart
Step 1: Know What You Need
Ask yourself:
- What size fits your products?
- Do you need 2-way or 4-way entry?
- How many do you use per month?
- What condition is acceptable?
Step 2: Get Multiple Quotes
Contact 3-4 suppliers and compare:
- Price per pallet
- Delivery costs
- Minimum order requirements
- Buy-back programs for worn pallets
Step 3: Inspect Before Buying
Check each pallet for:
- Cracks in the plastic
- Missing or broken deck boards
- Warped or bent sections
- Cleanliness and odors
Step 4: Consider Long-term Costs
- Free pickup of old pallets saves disposal fees
- Heat-treated pallets cost more but allow export
- Buy-back programs reduce total cost
Materials Explained Simply
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
- Most common type
- Strong and chemical resistant
- Good for food and beverage industries
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
- Lighter weight
- Good for one-way shipping
- Less expensive option
PE (Polyethylene)
- Basic plastic type
- Suitable for light-duty use
- Budget-friendly choice
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying wrong size: Measure your products first
Ignoring weight limits: Check your forklift capacity
Skipping inspection: Always see pallets before large orders
Forgetting delivery costs: Factor in transport expenses
Not asking about buy-back: Some suppliers take worn pallets back
When to Choose Used Over New
Choose used plastic pallets when:
- Budget is your main concern
- You need pallets for internal use only
- Your products aren't extremely heavy
- You want to test pallet types before big investment
Choose new pallets when:
- You're shipping to major retailers (they often require new)
- Your products are very heavy or sharp
- You need consistent appearance for branding
- You're starting a food processing operation
Questions to Ask Suppliers
- What's your return policy?
- Do you offer volume discounts?
- Can you provide certificates for food-grade use?
- What's the delivery timeframe?
- Do you buy back worn pallets?
- Are pallets heat-treated for export?
Remember: The best deal isn't always the cheapest price. Consider delivery costs, quality, and service when making your decision.