What Is a Grade B Pallet?
Understand what makes a pallet Grade B, how it compares to Grade A, and why it’s a smart, cost-effective option for many operations.

Key Takeaways
- More Wear and Repairs: Grade B pallets show heavier use but remain structurally sound.
- Cost Savings: A practical, budget-friendly option compared to Grade A or new pallets.
- Best for General Use: Ideal for manufacturing, warehousing, and shipping where appearance isn’t a priority.
In the used pallet market, you’ll often hear pallets classified as Grade A or Grade B. While Grade A pallets are closer to “like new,” Grade B pallets serve as a practical, budget-friendly option for businesses that don’t require perfect appearance or uniformity.
A Grade B pallet has typically been through more use and repair than Grade A, but it still offers solid performance for many applications. These pallets may have multiple repairs, cosmetic flaws, or minor structural adjustments, yet they remain functional for carrying standard loads.
How Grade B Pallets Are Defined
Used pallet grading focuses on condition, repair history, and structural integrity. Grade B pallets generally have:
- Visible Repairs: Stringer or deckboard repairs, sometimes with plugs or companion boards.
- More Wear: Signs of use such as staining, scuffs, or mismatched components.
- Solid Structure: Despite wear, the pallet can still support common warehouse and shipping loads.
Because they’ve seen more use, Grade B pallets often vary slightly in appearance, though they still meet functional requirements.
When to Choose Grade B Pallets
Grade B pallets are an excellent choice for operations that prioritize function over aesthetics. They’re widely used in manufacturing, warehousing, and one-way shipping, where presentation isn’t critical. Their affordability makes them especially appealing for businesses looking to reduce costs while maintaining reliable handling.
However, for retail or export where appearance, uniformity, or compliance is important, businesses often prefer Grade A pallets.
Conclusion
Grade B pallets may not have the polished look of Grade A, but they remain a reliable and cost-effective solution for many businesses. With minor repairs and signs of wear, they provide dependable functionality for warehousing, manufacturing, and shipping. For companies seeking a balance between performance and affordability, Grade B pallets are a practical choice that supports daily operations without unnecessary expense.