Pallet Accessories
Complete your pallet setup with our full range of accessories. From collars and covers to strapping and handling equipment, we carry everything you need to protect, organize, and move your pallet loads efficiently.
Pallet Accessories & Add-Ons
Collars, covers, dividers, and more to complete your pallet solution
Request Accessory Pricing
Tell us what accessories you need and we'll put together a competitive quote. Volume discounts available on all items.
Pallet Collars
Pallet collars are stackable wooden frames that attach to the top of a pallet, creating a rigid, reusable container. They are the most versatile and popular pallet accessory, replacing disposable cardboard boxes and custom crating in many applications.
Stackable Design
Multiple collars stack on top of each other using integrated steel hinges, creating containers of any height. Stack 1, 2, 3, or more collars to match your load height.
Foldable & Space-Saving
Hinged corners allow collars to fold flat when not in use, reducing return shipping costs and storage space by up to 80%.
Reusable & Durable
Built from solid wood with galvanized steel corner hinges, pallet collars last for years of repeated use. Far more sustainable than single-use packaging.
Standard Sizes Available
We stock collars for all standard pallet sizes including 48x40, 48x48, 42x42, and European 1200x800mm (EUR pallet).
Custom Heights
Standard collar height is approximately 8 inches (200mm), but custom heights are available for specialized applications.
Pallet Collar Specifications
Pallet collars replace cardboard boxes, custom crates, and shrink wrap in many applications, saving money and reducing waste.
Pallet Collar Sizing & Stacking Guide
Pallet collars transform standard flat pallets into fully enclosed, stackable containers. Understanding how collar sizing, stacking, and capacity work helps you design the most efficient packaging system for your products.
| Pallet Size | Collar Dimensions (L x W) | Single Collar Height | 2 Collars Stacked | 3 Collars Stacked | 4 Collars Stacked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48" x 40" (GMA) | 48" x 40" | 8" (200mm) | 16" (400mm) | 24" (600mm) | 32" (800mm) |
| 48" x 48" | 48" x 48" | 8" (200mm) | 16" (400mm) | 24" (600mm) | 32" (800mm) |
| 42" x 42" | 42" x 42" | 8" (200mm) | 16" (400mm) | 24" (600mm) | 32" (800mm) |
| 1200 x 800mm (EUR) | 1200 x 800mm | 200mm | 400mm | 600mm | 800mm |
| 1200 x 1000mm | 1200 x 1000mm | 200mm | 400mm | 600mm | 800mm |
| Custom Size | Made to order | Custom (4"-16") | Custom | Custom | Custom |
Space Savings When Folded
Collars fold flat via their steel corner hinges, reducing storage volume by up to 80% compared to rigid containers.
Reuse Cycles
Well-maintained pallet collars last for over 100 use cycles, making them far more economical than cardboard boxes.
Max Stack Capacity
A collar system on a standard pallet safely supports loads up to 2,000 lbs when properly stacked.
Folding Ratio
Four folded collars occupy the same space as one assembled collar, dramatically reducing return transport costs.
Pallet Covers & Lids
Protect your pallet loads from dust, moisture, and damage during storage and transport with our range of covers and lids.
Wooden Lids
Solid plywood or board lids that sit on top of pallet collars. Perfect for stacking loaded pallets and providing a rigid top surface. Available in all standard pallet sizes.
- Rigid support for stacking
- Fits all standard collar sizes
- Reusable and recyclable
- Can be heat treated
Plastic Pallet Covers
Reusable plastic covers that slip over the top of palletized loads. Available in clear (for product visibility) or opaque versions. Waterproof and dust-proof protection.
- Waterproof protection
- Clear or opaque options
- Reusable hundreds of times
- Lightweight and easy to apply
Thermal Pallet Covers
Insulated covers that maintain temperature during transport. Essential for food, pharmaceuticals, and any temperature-sensitive products. Available in reflective foil and quilted versions.
- Temperature control
- Reflective foil options
- Quilted insulation available
- FDA compliant materials
Shrink Wrap Covers
Pre-formed shrink bags that slide over pallet loads and shrink tight with heat application. Provide a tamper-evident, weather-proof seal around the entire load.
- Tamper-evident seal
- Weatherproof protection
- Various thickness options
- UV-stabilized versions
Corrugated Caps
Disposable cardboard top caps that provide basic dust and light moisture protection. The most economical cover option for short-term storage and shipping.
- Most affordable option
- Recyclable cardboard
- Easy to apply and remove
- Single-use or light reuse
Custom Covers
Need something specific? We can source custom covers in any material, size, or configuration. Branded covers with your company logo are also available.
- Any size or material
- Custom branding available
- Specialty materials
- Contact us for details
Dividers & Separators
Keep products organized, separated, and protected within pallet loads using our selection of dividers and separator sheets.
Corrugated Layer Pads
Flat corrugated sheets placed between layers of product on a pallet. They distribute weight evenly, prevent shifting, and protect products from pressure damage. Available in all standard sizes and custom dimensions.
Common Uses:
Plastic Divider Sheets
Durable, reusable plastic sheets that separate product layers. They are waterproof, washable, and last much longer than corrugated alternatives. Ideal for closed-loop supply chains and clean environments.
Common Uses:
Cell Dividers / Partitions
Grid-style dividers that create individual cells within a pallet load, keeping bottles, jars, or other items separated and upright. Available in corrugated, plastic, and foam materials.
Common Uses:
Foam Separators
Cushioning foam sheets and inserts that protect delicate, fragile, or high-value products during transport. Available in various densities and thicknesses for different protection levels.
Common Uses:
Corner Protectors
Corner protectors shield your pallet loads from strap damage, forklift impact, and crushing during transit. They are essential for protecting high-value goods and maintaining the structural integrity of palletized loads.
Cardboard Edge Protectors
L-shaped laminated cardboard angles that protect edges from strap cutting and compression. The most popular and affordable option.
Plastic Corner Guards
Durable plastic protectors that snap onto pallet corners. Reusable, washable, and ideal for closed-loop operations.
Foam Corner Protectors
Cushioning foam pieces that absorb impact at corners. Perfect for fragile goods, electronics, and furniture.
Steel Corner Angles
Heavy-duty steel angles for maximum protection on extremely heavy or valuable loads. Reusable indefinitely.
Why Corner Protection Matters
Without corner protection, strapping and banding can crush edges, forklifts can dent corners, and stacking can damage the top layer of products. A small investment in corner protectors prevents costly product damage.
of freight damage occurs at corners
reduction in strap damage
average cost per protector
ROI on damage prevention
Corner Protectors & Edge Boards
Edge boards and corner protectors are the most overlooked pallet accessories, yet they prevent the most common and costly type of freight damage. Here is a comprehensive guide to selecting the right edge protection for your loads.
| Type | Material | Leg Size | Length | Cost Per Unit | Reusable | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laminated Edge Board | Recycled Cardboard | 2" x 2" | 24"-96" | $0.10-$0.50 | No (single use) | Light-medium loads, strap protection |
| Heavy-Duty Edge Board | Multi-ply Cardboard | 2" x 2" to 3" x 3" | 24"-96" | $0.25-$0.80 | Limited (2-3 uses) | Heavy loads, stacking protection |
| Plastic Corner Guard | HDPE / Polypropylene | 2" x 2" to 4" x 4" | 4"-12" (corners only) | $0.50-$2.00 | Yes (100+ uses) | Closed-loop, forklift protection |
| Steel Corner Angle | Galvanized Steel | 2" x 2" to 3" x 3" | 4"-12" (corners only) | $2.00-$8.00 | Yes (indefinite) | Extreme weight, metal pallets |
| Foam Edge Protector | PE / EPE Foam | 1" x 1" to 3" x 3" | Custom cut | $0.15-$0.60 | Limited | Fragile items, furniture, glass |
| V-Board (Full Length) | Laminated Cardboard | 2" x 2" | Full pallet height | $0.30-$1.20 | No | Full vertical edge protection |
Strap Damage Prevention
When steel or PET strapping is tensioned around a pallet load, it can crush and cut into product edges. Edge boards placed under straps distribute the tension over a wider area, preventing edge damage entirely. This is the single most common use of edge boards.
Stacking Stability
Full-height V-boards placed vertically on all four corners of a palletized load create a rigid frame that supports stacking. Without corner protection, stacked loads can crush the bottom pallet products. V-boards transfer stacking weight to the pallet deck rather than product.
Forklift Impact Protection
Forklift tines and clamps frequently contact pallet corners during handling. Plastic or steel corner guards absorb these impacts without transferring damage to products. In high-traffic warehouses, corner guards reduce product damage claims by up to 40%.
Water and Moisture Barrier
Wax-coated and plastic-laminated edge boards create a moisture barrier at the edges of pallet loads, where water ingress is most common. These treated boards are essential for outdoor storage and long-distance shipping where loads may encounter rain.
Load Unitization
Edge boards combined with strapping create a unitized load that moves as a single rigid block. This prevents individual boxes and cases from shifting independently, which is the primary cause of load collapse during transport.
Cost-Effective Insurance
At $0.10-$0.50 per board, edge protectors are one of the cheapest forms of damage prevention available. A single prevented damage claim ($50-$500 per incident) pays for hundreds of edge boards. The ROI on edge protection is among the highest of any packaging investment.
Edge Board Application Guide
Under Horizontal Straps
Place edge boards under every horizontal strap on all four corners. This is the minimum recommended application for any strapped pallet load.
Under Vertical Straps
For loads strapped both horizontally and vertically, add boards under vertical straps as well. Use cross-shaped protectors at intersections.
Full Vertical Corners
For stacked loads or high-value goods, use full-height V-boards on all four corners from base to top of the load.
Top Edge Protection
Add short edge boards along the top edges of the load to prevent damage from stacked pallets above.
Strapping & Wrapping Materials
Secure your pallet loads for safe transport with our selection of strapping, stretch wrap, and banding materials.
Stretch Wrap Film
The most common method of securing pallet loads. Applied by hand or machine, stretch film wraps around the load and pallet, creating a tight, unitized package.
- Hand wrap: 12-20 inch widths
- Machine wrap: 20-30 inch widths
- Available in 60-120 gauge thickness
- Clear, tinted, and UV-resistant options
Steel Strapping
The strongest strapping option for heavy loads and demanding conditions. Steel straps hold extreme tension and resist impact, making them essential for heavy manufacturing.
- Widths: 3/8 to 2 inches
- High tensile and regular grades
- Break strength up to 8,000 lbs
- Requires seals and tensioning tools
Polypropylene (PP) Strapping
The most economical strapping material for light to medium loads. Polypropylene straps are easy to apply, lightweight, and widely available.
- Most affordable option
- Hand or machine application
- Good for light-medium loads
- Recyclable material
Polyester (PET) Strapping
Combines high strength with flexibility. PET strapping retains tension over time and absorbs impacts without breaking. The preferred alternative to steel for many applications.
- Retains tension over time
- Impact and shock resistant
- Safer to handle than steel
- Recyclable and eco-friendly
Shrink Wrap / Shrink Bags
Heat-shrinkable film that conforms tightly to the pallet load shape when heated. Provides excellent load stability and tamper-evident protection.
- Requires heat gun or tunnel
- Superior load stability
- Tamper-evident seal
- Available in various thicknesses
Strapping Tools & Equipment
Manual tensioners, sealers, and combination tools for applying strapping. Battery-powered and pneumatic options available for high-volume operations.
- Manual, battery, pneumatic
- Tensioners and sealers
- Combination tools available
- Contact us for recommendations
Stretch Wrap vs Shrink Wrap
Both stretch wrap and shrink wrap secure pallet loads, but they work differently and are suited to different applications. Understanding the difference helps you choose the most cost-effective and protective solution for your operation.
| Property | Stretch Wrap | Shrink Wrap |
|---|---|---|
| How It Works | Stretched around the load under tension; clings to itself | Loosely placed over load, then heated to shrink tight |
| Application Method | Hand wrap or machine wrap (turntable/rotary arm) | Heat gun, heat tunnel, or propane torch |
| Material | Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) | Polyolefin, PVC, or Polyethylene film |
| Thickness (Gauge) | 60-120 gauge (most common: 80 gauge) | 75-150 gauge (most common: 100 gauge) |
| Cost per Pallet | $1.50-$3.00 (hand) / $0.50-$1.50 (machine) | $3.00-$8.00 (includes heat application) |
| Load Security | Good — holds load to pallet via tension | Excellent — conforms tightly to load shape |
| Weather Protection | Moderate — some moisture resistance | Superior — sealed, waterproof enclosure |
| Tamper Evidence | Low — can be unwrapped and re-wrapped easily | High — cutting or tearing is visible |
| Speed of Application | Fast — 1-3 minutes per pallet (machine) | Slower — 5-10 minutes including heat step |
| Equipment Needed | None (hand) or stretch wrapper machine | Heat gun or shrink tunnel required |
| Best For | High-volume warehouses, daily shipping | High-value goods, outdoor storage, exports |
| Recyclable | Yes — widely accepted in recycling programs | Limited — depends on material type |
Choose Stretch Wrap When...
- You wrap 20+ pallets per day and need speed
- Cost per pallet is your primary concern
- Loads are standard shapes (boxes, cases)
- Indoor storage with no weather exposure
- You want easy recyclability
- Machine application is available in your facility
Choose Shrink Wrap When...
- Loads will be stored outdoors or exposed to weather
- You need tamper-evident, sealed packaging
- Products are irregularly shaped or fragile
- Appearance and presentation matter (retail display)
- You are shipping internationally or via ocean freight
- Maximum dust and moisture protection is required
of pallets use stretch wrap
Stretch wrap is the dominant wrapping method in North American warehousing due to its speed and low cost.
average savings per pallet with machine wrap
Switching from hand wrapping to machine wrapping saves an average of $0.75 per pallet in film and labor costs.
stretch ratio for premium film
High-performance stretch films can stretch up to 300% of their original length, using less material per pallet.
Anti-Slip Mats & Sheets
Prevent product sliding and shifting during transport with anti-slip materials placed between products and pallet surfaces.
Rubber Anti-Slip Mats
Heavy-duty rubber mats that sit on top of pallets, providing maximum grip. Reusable, washable, and extremely effective at preventing load shift. Ideal for smooth-bottomed products.
- Maximum friction coefficient
- Reusable 100+ times
- Washable and durable
- Various thicknesses available
Anti-Slip Paper Sheets
Coated paper sheets with a high-friction surface. The most economical anti-slip solution. Applied between product layers and between products and the pallet surface.
- Most affordable option
- 100% recyclable
- Available in all pallet sizes
- Single-use or light reuse
Grip Pads & Coatings
Self-adhesive grip pads and spray-on coatings that permanently add anti-slip properties to pallet surfaces. Ideal for pallets used in specific, repetitive applications.
- Permanent anti-slip surface
- Self-adhesive application
- Spray-on coatings available
- Custom sizes and shapes
Pallet Jacks & Handling Equipment
While we specialize in pallets and pallet accessories, we also provide information and sourcing assistance for essential pallet handling equipment.
Manual Pallet Jacks
Hand-operated hydraulic jacks for moving pallets short distances across smooth floors. The most common and affordable way to handle individual pallets in warehouses and loading docks.
Capacity: 2,500 - 5,500 lbs
Electric Pallet Jacks
Battery-powered jacks that eliminate manual pumping. Ideal for moving pallets across longer distances or for operators who handle many pallets per shift. Reduces worker fatigue.
Capacity: 3,000 - 6,000 lbs
Pallet Stackers
Electric or manual stackers that lift pallets to elevated heights for stacking or rack loading. A compact and affordable alternative to full-size forklifts for low-height operations.
Lift height: Up to 15 feet
Pallet Inverters
Machines that rotate pallet loads 180 degrees to replace damaged pallets without unloading products. Essential for operations that receive goods on disposable pallets.
Capacity: Up to 4,400 lbs
Pallet Dispensers
Automated systems that store stacks of empty pallets and dispense one at a time. Improve efficiency and safety by eliminating the need for workers to manually separate stacked pallets.
Holds 15-20 pallets per stack
Pallet Wrappers
Semi-automatic or fully automatic machines that apply stretch wrap to pallet loads. Dramatically increase wrapping speed and consistency compared to hand wrapping.
Turntable or rotary arm styles
Need help selecting the right handling equipment for your operation? Our team can provide recommendations based on your facility, volume, and pallet types.
Contact Our TeamAccessory Checklist
Use this quick reference to identify which accessories you need for your pallet operation.
Create a reusable container on your pallet
Pallet Collars
Stackable wooden frames
Protect loads from dust, rain, or UV
Pallet Covers
Plastic, thermal, or corrugated
Close and stack collar-enclosed loads
Wooden Lids
Plywood tops for collar systems
Separate product layers on a pallet
Layer Pads / Dividers
Corrugated or plastic sheets
Keep individual items upright and separated
Cell Dividers
Grid partitions for bottles, jars
Protect edges from strap and forklift damage
Corner Protectors
Cardboard, plastic, or steel
Prevent products from sliding during transit
Anti-Slip Mats
Rubber mats or coated paper
Secure pallet loads for shipping
Strapping & Stretch Wrap
Steel, PP, PET, or film
Cushion fragile items between layers
Foam Separators
Various densities and cuts
Move pallets within your facility
Pallet Jacks
Manual or electric options
Detailed Accessory Specifications
Every accessory in our catalog comes with detailed specifications to help you select exactly the right product for your operation.
| Accessory | Material | Standard Sizes | Reusable | Key Spec |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pallet Collars | Pine/Spruce + Steel Hinges | 48x40, 48x48, 42x42, EUR | Yes (100+ cycles) | 200mm height, 20mm board thickness |
| Wooden Lids | Plywood / Solid Wood | All standard pallet sizes | Yes (50+ cycles) | 12mm-18mm thickness |
| Plastic Covers | PE / PP Plastic | 48x40, 48x48, custom | Yes (200+ uses) | 4-8 mil thickness |
| Thermal Covers | Reflective Foil / Quilted | 48x40, 48x48, custom | Yes (50+ uses) | R-value: 4-8 |
| Stretch Wrap | LLDPE Film | 12-30 inch widths | No (single use) | 60-120 gauge, 1,000-1,500 ft rolls |
| Steel Strapping | High-Carbon Steel | 3/8" - 2" widths | No | Break strength up to 8,000 lbs |
| PET Strapping | Polyester | 3/8" - 3/4" widths | No | Break strength up to 1,400 lbs |
| Corner Protectors | Cardboard / Plastic / Steel | 2" - 4" legs | Varies by material | 3mm-6mm thickness |
| Anti-Slip Mats | Rubber / Coated Paper | All standard pallet sizes | Rubber: Yes / Paper: Limited | Coefficient of friction: 0.6-0.9 |
| Layer Pads | Corrugated / Plastic | All standard pallet sizes | Plastic: Yes / Corrugated: Limited | B-flute or C-flute corrugated |
| Cell Dividers | Corrugated / Plastic / Foam | Custom to container size | Varies | Cell sizes from 2" to 12" |
| Foam Separators | PE / PU Foam | Custom to application | Limited | Density: 1.2-6.0 lb/ft3 |
How Accessories Improve Pallet Performance
The right accessories do not just protect your products -- they improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and make your entire pallet operation more effective.
Reduce Product Damage by 60%
Corner protectors, anti-slip mats, and proper strapping prevent the most common types of freight damage: crushed edges, shifted loads, and toppled stacks. Companies that invest in accessories report up to 60% fewer damage claims.
Eliminate Single-Use Packaging
Pallet collars and reusable covers replace disposable cardboard boxes, custom crating, and single-use shrink wrap. One set of collars can replace 100+ cardboard boxes over its lifetime, dramatically reducing packaging waste and cost.
Maximize Warehouse Space
Collar systems allow safe, stable stacking of pallet loads without racking. Folding collars and nestable accessories take up minimal space when not in use, freeing up valuable warehouse floor area.
Faster Loading and Unloading
Organized loads with proper dividers and separators are faster to pack and unpack. Workers spend less time arranging products and more time moving loads. Anti-slip surfaces also reduce the need for rewrapping shifted loads.
Extend Pallet Lifespan
Corner protectors shield pallet edges from forklift damage. Anti-slip mats prevent load shift that stresses pallet structures. Covers protect pallets from weather degradation. Together, these accessories can double pallet life.
Improve Worker Safety
Proper accessories reduce workplace hazards. Anti-slip mats prevent load tipping. Strapping keeps loads secure during handling. Corner protectors eliminate sharp edges. Lighter reusable packaging reduces manual handling strain.
Bundling Options & Volume Discounts
Buying accessories together with pallets saves you money and simplifies procurement. Our bundle packages combine the most commonly ordered accessories at discounted rates.
Pallet + Collar Bundle
Order pallets with matching collars and receive 10-15% off the combined price. Collars are pre-sized to fit your pallets perfectly. Add lids for an additional discount.
Complete Shipping Kit
Pallets + stretch wrap + corner protectors + anti-slip sheets bundled together. Everything you need to ship loads safely in one order. 15-20% savings vs. ordering individually.
Warehousing Starter Pack
Pallets + collars + lids + layer pads for warehouse storage. Create a complete reusable container system at a bundled price. Replaces cardboard boxes and custom crating.
Custom Bundle
Tell us your operation and we will put together a custom accessory bundle at the best possible price. Volume discounts increase with bundle size.
Volume Discount Tiers
--
Up to $200
Up to $750
Up to $2,500+
Stacks with volume
Recommended Accessories by Industry
Different industries have different accessory needs. Here are our expert recommendations based on the unique requirements of each sector.
Food & Beverage
- Pallet collars (food-grade)
- Thermal covers for cold chain
- Anti-slip paper sheets
- Plastic layer pads (washable)
- FDA-compliant stretch wrap
Key Priority: Hygiene and temperature control are critical. All accessories must be food-safe and easy to sanitize.
Pharmaceutical
- Clean room compatible covers
- Anti-static divider sheets
- Tamper-evident strapping
- Virgin plastic layer pads
- Sealed pallet collar systems
Key Priority: GMP compliance drives accessory selection. Traceability and contamination prevention are the top priorities.
Electronics & Technology
- Anti-static foam separators
- ESD-safe divider sheets
- Custom cell dividers
- Cushioning corner protectors
- Anti-static stretch wrap
Key Priority: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and vibration dampening are essential for sensitive electronic components.
Automotive & Manufacturing
- Steel corner angles
- Heavy-duty steel strapping
- Custom cell dividers
- Rubber anti-slip mats
- Reinforced pallet collars
Key Priority: Heavy parts require maximum load security. Custom dividers keep components organized in JIT supply chains.
Retail & E-Commerce
- Standard pallet collars
- Clear plastic covers
- Corrugated layer pads
- PP strapping (cost-effective)
- Cardboard corner protectors
Key Priority: Cost efficiency and speed of application matter most. Accessories should be simple, affordable, and widely available.
Agriculture & Produce
- Ventilated pallet collars
- Breathable covers
- Moisture-resistant dividers
- Anti-slip paper sheets
- Lightweight PP strapping
Key Priority: Airflow and moisture management are critical for produce freshness. Ventilated accessories prevent condensation and spoilage.
Custom Accessory Solutions
When standard accessories do not meet your requirements, our team designs and sources custom solutions tailored to your exact specifications and application.
Custom-Sized Collars
Pallet collars in non-standard dimensions to fit specialty pallets. Custom heights from 4 inches to 16 inches, with options for removable hinges and reinforced corners.
Branded Accessories
Add your company logo, colors, and tracking information to collars, covers, and corner protectors. Branded accessories improve supply chain visibility and reduce loss.
Specialty Dividers
Die-cut dividers and cell partitions engineered to hold specific products: bottles, jars, tubes, electronic components, auto parts, or any irregularly shaped item.
Temperature-Controlled Packaging
Custom insulated covers and thermal blankets designed for your specific temperature requirements, from frozen goods to heat-sensitive pharmaceuticals.
Integrated Tracking Systems
RFID tags, barcodes, and QR codes integrated into collars, pallets, and covers for automated inventory tracking and supply chain visibility.
Prototype Development
We develop and test prototype accessories before committing to production. Sample quantities allow you to validate fit, function, and durability in real-world conditions.
Pallet Tracking Technology
Modern pallet operations demand visibility. RFID tags, GPS trackers, and barcode systems transform pallets from passive containers into trackable, data-generating assets. Know where every pallet is, where it has been, and when it needs maintenance.
RFID Tracking
RFID tags embedded in pallets or attached to collars enable automatic identification without line-of-sight scanning. A reader at a dock door can identify every pallet on a truckload in seconds, without any human intervention.
Key Specifications:
- Read range: 10-30 feet (UHF passive tags)
- Scan speed: 100+ pallets per second
- No line-of-sight required
- Works through shrink wrap and covers
- Tag cost: $0.10-$0.50 per tag (passive)
- Tag lifespan: 5-10 years (passive)
Best For: High-volume distribution centers, automated warehouses, and supply chains requiring real-time pallet counts without manual scanning.
GPS Tracking
Active GPS trackers mounted on pallets provide real-time location data anywhere in the world. Know exactly where high-value shipments are at every moment during transit, with geofencing alerts for unauthorized movements.
Key Specifications:
- Real-time location tracking worldwide
- Geofencing and route deviation alerts
- Temperature and humidity sensors available
- Battery life: 1-5 years per tracker
- Cellular or satellite connectivity
- Tracker cost: $25-$150 per unit
Best For: High-value shipments, international freight, cold chain monitoring, and asset recovery for reusable pallet pools.
Barcode Systems
Barcodes and QR codes printed on pallet labels or branded directly onto pallet surfaces are the simplest and most affordable tracking method. Workers scan codes with handheld scanners or smartphones to log pallet movements.
Key Specifications:
- Lowest cost tracking method
- Works with smartphone cameras
- Easy to implement — no infrastructure
- Print labels for $0.01-$0.05 each
- QR codes can link to digital records
- Compatible with all WMS systems
Best For: Small to medium operations, companies just starting pallet tracking, and environments where manual scanning is acceptable.
| Feature | RFID | GPS | Barcode / QR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Medium ($500-$5,000 for readers) | High ($25-$150 per tracker) | Low ($50-$500 for scanner) |
| Per-Pallet Cost | $0.10-$0.50 per tag | $5-$20/month per tracker | $0.01-$0.05 per label |
| Scanning Method | Automatic (walk-through readers) | Automatic (continuous) | Manual (point and scan) |
| Location Accuracy | Within facility (zone level) | Global (10-meter accuracy) | Last scan location only |
| Real-Time Tracking | At reader checkpoints | Yes — continuous worldwide | No — only when scanned |
| Data Captured | ID, timestamp, location zone | GPS coordinates, temp, humidity | ID, timestamp, operator |
| Infrastructure Needed | Readers at dock doors/zones | None (cellular network) | Handheld scanner or phone |
| Ideal Pallet Volume | 1,000+ pallets in circulation | 100-500 high-value pallets | Any volume |
| Integration | WMS, ERP, IoT platforms | Cloud dashboard, API | WMS, spreadsheets, apps |
Pallet Loss Reduction
Companies implementing pallet tracking report an average 30% reduction in lost or unaccounted-for pallets within the first year.
Faster Cycle Times
Automated RFID scanning at dock doors speeds up receiving and shipping processes by 15% compared to manual barcode scanning.
Average Pallet Replacement Cost
Every lost pallet costs $4-$5 to replace. With 10,000 pallets in circulation, 30% loss reduction saves $13,500+ annually.
Inventory Accuracy with RFID
RFID-tracked pallet pools achieve inventory accuracy above 99.5%, compared to 85-90% with manual counting methods.
Getting Started with Pallet Tracking
Not sure which tracking technology is right for your operation? Our team helps you evaluate your pallet volume, supply chain complexity, and budget to recommend the best solution. We can integrate RFID tags, GPS trackers, or barcode labels into pallets and collars at the time of purchase.
Schedule a Tracking ConsultationAssessment
We analyze your pallet flow, volume, and pain points
Recommendation
We recommend RFID, GPS, barcode, or hybrid approach
Integration
Tags or trackers are embedded in pallets at our facility
Go Live
You start scanning and tracking from day one
Need Accessories for Your Pallets?
From collars and covers to strapping and safety equipment, we supply everything you need. Volume discounts available on all accessories.