Who Buys Plastic Pallets?
Exploring the industries, companies, and recyclers that purchase plastic pallets.
Key Takeaways
- Plastic pallets serve many industries including food, pharma, manufacturing, retail, and chemicals.
- Recyclers buy used pallets to resell, refurbish, or recycle into new products.
- Businesses gain value and sustainability by using and selling plastic pallets.
Plastic pallets are widely used for shipping, storage, and product handling. Their hygiene, strength, and compatibility with automation make them a practical alternative to wood. But who actually buys plastic pallets? The answer depends on the industry and the application.
Industries That Buy Plastic Pallets
- Food & Beverage
- Used in bottling plants, breweries, and food distribution
- Moisture- and bacteria-resistant for hygienic handling
- Smooth surfaces that are easy to clean
- Pharmaceutical & Healthcare
- Required for sterile environments and FDA/USDA compliance
- Non-porous design prevents contamination
- Suitable for clean rooms and controlled environments
- Manufacturing
- Built to handle heavy loads of raw materials and finished parts
- Designed for automation, conveyors, and racking systems
- Provide consistent sizing for high-volume operations
- Retail & Distribution
- Lightweight for shipping efficiency
- Standardized 48" x 40" size for smooth supply chain movement
- Durable enough for multiple cycles in closed-loop systems
- Chemical & Industrial
- Resistant to chemicals, solvents, and oils
- Ideal for handling drums, IBCs, and bulk liquids
- Reliable for long-term use in harsh environments
Why Businesses Choose Plastic Pallets
- Longer lifespan than wood pallets
- Lighter weight but still strong
- Consistent size and shape for automation
- Washable and reusable for sanitary handling
- Recyclable at end of life
Recyclers & Recovery Companies
Another major group of buyers is recyclers and pallet recovery companies. These businesses purchase used plastic pallets from companies that no longer need them. Instead of sending pallets to a landfill, recyclers:
- Resell usable pallets back into circulation, extending their lifespan
- Repair or refurbish slightly damaged pallets for reuse
- Recycle broken pallets into plastic resin, which can be used to make new pallets or other products
This creates a closed-loop system that benefits both sellers and buyers: companies earn value from surplus pallets, while recyclers keep materials in use and reduce waste.
Conclusion
Plastic pallets are essential across modern supply chains, valued for their hygiene, consistency, and versatility. They’re purchased not only by industries like food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals, but also by recyclers and recovery companies that extend their lifecycle. Whether in daily operations or end-of-life recycling, plastic pallets deliver both functional and sustainable benefits.
