New vs Used Pallets: Real Cost Comparison for 2026
Used pallets cost 40-70% less than new — but the math isn't always that simple. Here's how to decide based on volume, freight, and DC requirements.
Current 48x40 GMA pricing (national average)
New 48x40 GMA hardwood: $14–$22 per pallet, depending on grade, wood mix, and region.
Grade A recycled / remanufactured 48x40: $7–$11. Grade B: $5–$8. Mixed/used as-is: $3–$6.
Heat-treated pallets carry a $1–$3 premium over their non-HT equivalents.
When new pallets are worth it
Export freight (you don't want pallets returned anyway), retail-facing shipments where appearance matters, automated DC systems that reject damaged stringers, and any application where pallet failure cost exceeds the price delta.
When used pallets are the right call
Closed-loop internal logistics, regional trucking with predictable returns, non-critical staging, and anywhere you can absorb a 5–10% damage rate without operational impact.
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