Your Guide when Choosing the Right Wood for Making Pallets

There are many kinds of wood suited to a range of purposes. Hardwoods like maple, oak, walnut, and teak are classic examples of ancient woods usually used for making furniture. But, softwoods like pine and spruce are also used in a lot of applications. In fact, pine is the most widely-grown and used wood these days, particularly to make wooden pallets. Whether at the farm or house, pallets have played a key role in helping people build much of what they need on the cheap. 

Picking the Perfect Pallet Wood

Pallets can be made from different woods, but their composition usually relies on their country of origin. The reason is that pallets are an example of only a part of a bigger supply system. Companies that manufacture pallets are searching for wood that fits for the purpose and is readily available. A high supply of wood ensures the consistency of the supply chain for making pallets and affordability of the raw product. 

Oak and Pine in Wood Pallets

Pine is commonly used in pallets due to its potential to be kiln-dried without causing any damage. Because of this, pine is perfect for shipping and storing food products and pharmaceuticals. Meanwhile, oak is a stronger material, but farming and felling oak for pallets would be expensive. Oak is used in a range of products and off-cuts not suitable for making furniture can be available. Because oak is stronger than pine, suppliers like Spec Wood can cut thinner boards to achieve the same strength level. Whether you are in Canada or the United States, the company can supply the right type of wood.

Hardwood vs Softwood

Hardwood is obtained from trees classified as angiosperms (flowering plants) while softwood is derived from gymnosperms.  When looking at various kinds of trees, it is often easy to tell the difference. Hardwood trees are bushy while softwood is usually taller and thinner.  

Generally, softwood is cheaper as it grows faster and is more readily available. Also, it is easier to cut and prepare. Usually, hardwood is more expensive as it takes longer to grow. In fact, it can grow in areas that may not be easy to manage. In terms of choosing between hardwood and software for making pallets, the majority of pallet manufacturers would choose hardwood. But when choosing, it is imperative to consider the pallets’ intended use. Overall, the choice of wood used in pallets depends on location, availability, and use. As you shop around for wood, you will come across various woods having varying qualities and benefits. 

Danny White