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Find the right plastic pallet

Select from the options below to zero in on your ideal pallet configuration.

Application use case

Export
One-Way
Multi-Trip
Warehouse
Bulk Bag
Pharma
FDA Blue

Condition

Size inches

42×42 43×43 45×45 48×32 48×40 48×45 48×48 56×44 Other…

Style structure and storage type

Nestable Stackable Rackable

Load Rating pounds (optional)

Dynamic

Weight supported in motion (forklift, pallet jack, conveyor).

Up to 1,5001,500 – 4,000Over 4,000
Static

Weight supported at rest (or bottom pallet when stacked 2–3 high).

Up to 3,5003,500 – 8,0008,000 – 18,000Over 18,000
Racking

Weight supported in unsupported rack (edge racking).

Up to 1,5001,500–2,800Over 2,800
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Request a Match

A few quick taps and we'll match it.

Tell us a little about the job, drop your details, and a Nelson rep takes it from there — matching the best available stock, new or used, from the closest warehouse.

A few quick questions

Plastic or wood pallet?
Wood Plastic
Load dims & weight (inches / lbs)
What's going on the pallet?
Siding / roofingRolls / reelsHigh-value equipmentIrregular / oversized itemsOther
Where is it going?
In-house / warehouseDomestic shippingExport overseasCold / freezer
Equipment used? (select all that apply)
Supported RackUnsupported RackForkliftPallet jackRiders / WalkiesConveyorPalletizer
How many?
Under 100100–500500–1,0001,000+
How often?
1 TimeRecurring
Anything else?

Where to send the match

No commitment — this starts a conversation, not an order.
Shipping & Freight

ISPM-15 Plastic

Shipping Air Freight? Optimize Cost with the Right Plastic Pallet

Using the wrong pallet for export could be costing more than you realize.

Shipping Air Freight? Optimize Cost with the Right Plastic Pallet
Lightweight and nestable plastic pallets save on air freight. Optional snap-on runners add secure stacking capabilities.

Air freight is the creme de la creme of all shipping methods and comes with a hefty price tag. But, can choosing the right pallet for air shipments really help “lighten the load”? Yes. Yes it can.

Choose the Right Air Freight Pallet

Air freight can be expensive. But cost-conscious businesses with lean inventory often depend on air freight (instead of ocean) to move product in a timely, more predictable manner. So how can these businesses optimize air freight cost? Easy. Consider these money-saving air freight tips:

  • Follow Industry Standards
    By industry standards, I mean shipping on an ISPM-15 exempt pallet. All plastic pallets are inherently compliant with export regulations so they eliminate the need for stamping and documentation. This makes exporting hassle-free and lessens the chance for freight delays.

  • Go Light
    You know how you get charged for that extra suitcase when you fly on a trip? Well, that’s what airlines call chargeable weight and it applies to cargo too. It is calculated using weight and dimensions. The lightweight nature of plastic pallets makes most of them export friendly. So choosing a 15 lb plastic pallet over a 35-40 lb pallet is really going to save you some money.

  • Think Nestable
    Nestable pallets tend to be lighter in weight and cost less. This is especially important to consider when the pallets are shipping one-way and are not expected to return. When not in use, nestable plastic pallets take up less space to save money in storage and transport costs.

  • Add Optional Runners
    Need more support? Some loads require more secure stacking capabilities when shipping via air cargo. A popular option for creating a flat and safe surface is to snap on runners to the bottom of nestable pallets to make stackable plastic pallets. This still keeps the pallet weight and price down but adds stacking and racking capabilities.

  • Get Size Advice
    Size matters. Plastic pallets have consistent and precise sizing and weights to make calculating your loads easier. Not only that, they come in many sizes to work with your application. The right size can prevent cargo damage and save money.

  • Ask About Used
    New isn’t always better. There is a huge selection of used plastic pallets that are ideal for export. Used pallets are structurally sound and typically have only some minor cosmetic damage. Best of all, they cost less.

Reduce Headaches and Save Money

Shipping air freight can be an expensive headache. Using the wrong pallet for export could be costing more than you realize. Getting expert advice for choosing the right plastic pallet really can help make the process easier and cheaper.

Have a question about choosing the best pallet for your air freight application? Let’s connect. Tell us the reasons most important to your pallet exporting below.