Chipboard blocks or solid wood blocks for pallet feet: which one should you choose?

Pallets are key elements in logistics and the transport of goods. The type of block used for the feet has a direct impact on the pallet’s strength, durability, and compliance with international standards. Two main options exist: chipboard blocks and solid wood blocks.

While solid wood is often perceived as more natural, chipboard blocks offer many advantages that make them a reference in industrial packaging. Let’s break down their differences and benefits.

1. Chipboard blocks: a benchmark in industrial packaging

What is chipboard?
Chipboard blocks are made from natural softwood sawdust and treated recycled wood, compressed under high pressure and temperature. This process creates a homogeneous, stable, and resistant material, widely used for manufacturing pallets, especially standardized EPAL pallets.

Why choose chipboard blocks?
✔ Standardized quality and shape stability
Thanks to an industrial production process, chipboard blocks have fixed dimensions and consistent density, ensuring reliable performance.
✔ Excellent mechanical resistance
– High compression resistance, ideal for heavy loads.
– Better nail retention than solid wood: tests show 36% better retention than central European pine and 46% better than spruce.
– Fewer cracks and less risk of tearing, especially during forklift handling.
✔ Moisture and pest resistance
– Unlike solid wood, chipboard blocks do not swell with humidity due to their density and strong bonding.
– No infestation by mold or insects, eliminating the need for chemical treatment.
✔ A more sustainable and eco-friendly solution
– Made from recycled wood, PEFC and FSC certified, ensuring sustainable resource management.
– No need for chemical treatment, unlike solid wood which must be treated to meet export standards (e.g., ISPM 15).
– Can be recycled or used for energy recovery after use.

👉 Today, around 70% of pallets in Germany use chipboard blocks, combining high performance with environmental responsibility.

2. Solid wood blocks: an alternative for specific needs

Solid wood is raw material, simply cut and processed without significant alteration. It is valued for its natural strength and suitability for demanding environments.

When should you choose solid wood?
– Ideal for very heavy loads: some industrial sectors require a 100% solid wood structure.
– Suitable for custom pallets: for projects requiring specific dimensions or unique standards.

Things to consider
– As a natural material, solid wood can be sensitive to environmental conditions like humidity and temperature changes.
– Treatment is often necessary to comply with export regulations, especially to prevent pests and mold.
– Nail retention varies depending on the wood species, which should be considered depending on the application.

Conclusion: why chipboard blocks are the preferred choice

Chipboard blocks have become the standard in industrial packaging, especially for EPAL pallets and demanding logistics applications. Their mechanical strength, stability, resistance to moisture, and compliance with international standards make them a top choice for many industries.

Solid wood remains a valid alternative for very specific needs, but comes with more constraints—particularly regarding humidity resistance and maintenance.

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