Stringer vs. Block Pallets: What's the Difference?

Published March 18, 2026

Two pallets can share the exact same 48×40 footprint and still be built in fundamentally different ways. The difference comes down to what holds the pallet up: stringers or blocks. It affects strength, how a forklift can pick it up, and what you pay.

Here’s how to tell them apart.

Stringer pallets (the “standard”)

A stringer pallet uses long boards — the stringers — running between the top and bottom deck boards, like the beams of a small bridge. The classic GMA pallet is a stringer pallet.

• Entry: usually 2-way (a forklift or pallet jack enters from two sides). Some are “notched” to allow partial 4-way access.
• Strength: plenty for most general freight; the stringers carry the load lengthwise.
• Cost: typically lower — fewer components and less lumber.
• Best for: general domestic shipping, high-volume use, and anywhere cost matters most.

Block pallets

A block pallet uses solid blocks — usually nine of them — at the corners, edges, and center, instead of long stringers. Those blocks create clearance on all four sides.

• Entry: true 4-way — a forklift or pallet jack can enter from any side, which speeds up handling.
• Strength: generally stronger and more durable, which is why they’re common for heavier loads and international shipping.
• Cost: typically higher — more components and lumber.
• Best for: heavy or concentrated loads, automated systems, and export freight.

How to choose

Ask three questions:

1. How will it be handled? If equipment needs to pick the pallet up from any side — or you want faster loading — block’s 4-way access wins. If 2-way entry is fine, a stringer pallet does the job for less.
2. How heavy is the load? Heavier and more concentrated loads lean toward block construction for the extra durability.
3. What’s the budget and volume? For high-volume domestic shipping where cost leads, stringer pallets are usually the economical choice.

Both constructions come in new and recycled, and both can be made heat-treated for export. Construction is a separate decision from size — for footprints, see our guide to pallet sizes.

The bottom line

• Stringer = lower cost, usually 2-way entry, great for general domestic freight.
• Block = stronger, true 4-way entry, better for heavy loads and exports — at a higher price.

Still not sure which your operation needs? Tell us how you handle and ship your product and we’ll recommend the construction that fits. Get a quote and we’ll help you spec it.