When you’re shifting stock, managing storage or sending out deliveries, pallets are what hold everything together. Use the right ones and your supply chain flows. Use the wrong ones and suddenly you’ve got broken goods, cluttered aisles and rising delivery costs.
That’s why it pays to know your pallet types. In this guide, we break down the most common options used across Australian industries, from standard sizes and heavy-duty builds to export-friendly formats and space-saving skids. You’ll find out which pallet suits which job, and how to choose the best fit for your needs.
1. New pallets
If your business depends on clean, consistent and durable pallets — especially for retail or export — new pallets are the way to go. At Palletwest, we manufacture new pallets to Australian standards and can tailor them to your specific load requirements.
Here’s a look at our most popular new pallet types:
- Pine pallets: Lightweight and strong, pine pallets are ideal for general storage, transport and everyday use across a wide range of industries.
- Australian standard pallets: Sized at 1165 x 1165mm, these are designed to fit perfectly in Australian racking and shipping containers, making them the go-to option for local warehousing and logistics.
- Racking pallets: Designed to sit safely within warehouse racking systems without losing structural strength under load.
- Heavy duty 2 tonne pallets: Built for high-capacity loads, these types of pallets are perfect for heavy industries like manufacturing, mining and construction.
If you’re shipping internationally, we can supply models that comply with ISPM 15, ensuring they meet global export standards.
2. Cheap pallets
Need a budget-friendly option that still gets the job done? Our cheap wooden pallet solutions offer practical performance at a lower price point, perfect for one-off projects, exports or short-term use.
We offer two standout options:
Skids
Skids are a cost-effective alternative to traditional pallets. With no bottom boards, they use less material, which means lower costs. Here’s what they’re best suited for:
- One-way or disposable shipping
- Forklift and pallet jack use
- Non-stackable goods or temporary storage
Small pallets
Compact and easy to handle, small pallets are a fantastic choice for lighter loads and operations with limited space. Their reduced size also makes them cheaper to transport and store. Here’s where they’re most effective:
- Tight or restricted storage areas
- Light-duty loads
- Situations where full-size pallets are overkill
- Businesses seeking lower freight costs or easier manual handling
3. Second-hand pallets & pallet collection
If you’re looking to save money and reduce waste, second-hand pallets are your sustainable choice. And Palletwest makes it easy to keep them in circulation.
We collect unwanted pallets from businesses across Perth, repair or repurpose them, and supply them back to customers at a reduced rate. This circular model supports local businesses while keeping usable pallets out of landfill.
Why choose second-hand pallets?
- Lower cost compared to new pallets
- Environmentally responsible choice
- Available in a range of sizes and conditions
How our pallet collection service works
Got unwanted pallets? We’ll come to you. Simply contact us to arrange a pickup, and we’ll collect your damaged, excess or unused pallets directly from your site. Collection fees may apply.
Once collected, we repair or recycle them, giving you the following benefits:
- Free up valuable storage space on your premises
- Contribute to a more sustainable, circular supply chain
- Simple, efficient way to manage your pallet stock while cutting waste
4. Types of pallets for warehouse & factory fit-outs
Setting up a new warehouse or factory? The types of pallets you choose during the fit-out phase can have a big impact on how smoothly your operation runs.
Here’s how different pallet types come into play:
- Standard pallets Their uniform size makes it easier to design racking systems, conveyor lines and forklift routes.
- 800 mm-wide pallets, common in European and export operations, are ideal when working with narrow racking or limited floor space — especially when you need to match international specifications.
- Custom pallets help optimise storage for oversized or unusually shaped products. This helps make better use of available warehouse volume.
- Skids are a smart choice for warehouses and factories needing flexible, easy-to-move pallets. Because they don’t have a bottom deck, they take up less space and are simpler to manoeuvre inside staging areas or production lines.
Comparing different types of pallets: Which one’s right for you?
Now that you know the main types of pallets Palletwest offers, let’s take a quick look at how they stack up. This side-by-side comparison highlights the key benefits, ideal uses, and important things to consider for new, cheap and second-hand pallets. This will help you make the best choice for your operation.
Pallet type | Advantages | Best for | Considerations |
| New Pallets | – Custom sizes available
– Strong and durable
– Consistent, clean quality | – Heavy loads and industrial use
– Export and compliance with ISPM 15 regulations
– Warehousing and racking systems | – Higher upfront cost compared to other options |
| Cheap Pallets (Skids & Small Pallets) | – Most affordable
– Lightweight and easy to handle
– Great for one-way shipping and internal transfers | – Short-term or disposable use
– Budget-focused projects
– Tight storage spaces or lighter loads | – Lower weight capacity
– Skids have less stability without bottom boards |
| Second-Hand Pallets | – Cost-effective and eco-friendly
– Available in various sizes and grades
– Supported by pallet collection and refurbishment | – General warehousing
– Businesses prioritising sustainability and cost savings | – May show signs of wear
– Less size and quality consistency |
How to choose the right pallet for your business
Choosing the right pallet comes down to matching your specific needs with the right type. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the best choice:
| Need | Recommended pallet type |
| Long-term durability and heavy loads | New Pine or Heavy Duty Pallets |
| Budget-friendly or short-term use | Skids or Small Pallets |
| Fit for standard warehouse setups | Australian Standard Pallets |
| Compatibility with warehouse racking | Racking Pallets |
| Sustainable and cost-effective choice | Second-Hand Pallets |
| Large volume for new warehouse or factory fit-outs | A tailored mix of pallet types |
Get the right pallets for the job
Smart pallet choices keep your stock secure, your workflow efficient, and your costs in check. From warehouse fit-outs to daily logistics, the right type sets the pace for everything that follows.
At PalletWest, we supply a wide range of pallets, from standard sizes to export-ready builds, all backed by local expertise and fast turnaround times. Need heat-treated options for ISPM 15 compliance? No problem. Looking for something custom to suit your setup? We’ve got you covered.
So get in touch with our knowledgeable team today and let’s find the right pallet to keep your operation moving.